Unit Instruments Seeking Markets, Possible Buyers

Unit Instruments Inc. has hired investment banking firm Needham & Co. to find new markets, potential joint-venture partners or possible buyers. The company, which makes products used in building semiconductors, insists it is not in financial trouble.

“We’re seeing the semiconductor industry starting a new up cycle and want to explore new ways to make ourselves stronger in this market,” said Unit spokesman Gary N. Patten.

Unit Instruments has 400 employees worldwide, nearly 300 of them at its primary manufacturing site and corporate headquarters in Yorba Linda.

Company stock prices rose $1.25 a share Wednesday, closing at $14.50 in Nasdaq trading.