Haag, March 8, 2016 – VAT Group AG (“VAT” or the “Company”), the leading global manufacturer of high-end vacuum valves and related products and services, today announced its intention to apply for the listing of its registered shares (“shares”) on SIX Swiss Exchange. In 2015, the Company generated net sales of CHF 411 million, representing an increase of 13% compared to 2014, and employed 1,192 employees worldwide. The envisaged Initial Public Offering (“IPO”) aims at broadening the shareholder base of VAT through the sale of existing shares offered to investors by VAT's current shareholders, mainly funds managed and/or advised by Partners Group and Capvis Equity Partners. Subject to improving market conditions, VAT expects to list in the next six months.

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Neither this announcement nor anything contained herein shall form the basis of, or be relied upon in connection with any offer or commitment whatsoever in any jurisdiction. Investors should not purchase or subscribe for any shares referred to in this announcement except on the basis of information in the offering memorandum (the "Offering Memorandum") expected to be published by VAT Group AG (“VAT” or the “Company” and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) in due course in connection with the proposed initial public offering of VAT Group AG and listing of registered shares on SIX Swiss Exchange.

Media release

VAT is the leading global developer, manufacturer and supplier of high-end vacuum valves, multi-valve modules, edge-welded bellows, and related products and services. Vacuum technology is an integral part of advanced manufacturing processes applied in a wide range of end markets including semiconductors, displays and solar energy as well as general industrial applications. VAT's high-end vacuum valves are mission-critical components at the core of advanced vacuum-based manufacturing processes controlling and regulating vacuum pressure and gas flow. The manufacturers of semiconductors, displays and solar products increasingly rely on accurately controlled, high-vacuum and high-purity environments to cope with the increasing miniaturization and sophistication of electronic applications. VAT's high-end vacuum valves are a key enabler of the technological evolution in high-vacuum process technology, standing for zero particles, highest purity and reliability.

UBS and Credit Suisse have been appointed as Joint Global Coordinators and Joint Bookrunners for the envisaged IPO, and J.P Morgan is acting as Joint Bookrunner. Bank Vontobel and Berenberg are acting as Co-Lead Managers and St. Galler Kantonalbank as Selling Agent. Lilja & Co. is acting as independent adviser to Partners Group, Capvis Equity Partners and VAT.