Suzuki Marine is a renowned manufacturer of outboard motors and marine engines, known for its high-quality products and innovative technology. The company has a long-standing history in DeKalb, Illinois, where it established its manufacturing facility in 1977. Over the years, Suzuki Marine has become an integral part of the community, contributing to the local economy and fostering a strong relationship with its employees and customers. The story of Suzuki Marine's presence in DeKalb began when Mr. Osamu Suzuki, founder of Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), decided to expand their business operations into the United States market. After extensive research on potential locations across the country, they selected DeKalb due to its strategic location near major waterways such as Lake Michigan and Mississippi River. Moreover, DeKalb had a skilled workforce with a strong work ethic that aligned with SMC's values. In December 1976, SMC purchased land from Northern Illinois University (NIU) for $2 million to build their first manufacturing plant outside Japan. This marked SMC's entry into the US market as well as establishing DeKalb as one of their primary production sites globally. In February 1977, construction began on the 50-acre site located at Twombly Road in DeKalb County Industrial Park. To lead this new venture successfully, Mr. Masahiro Yamamoto was appointed President of American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC). He played a vital role in establishing ASMC headquarters in Bensenville while overseeing all operations at ASMC plants including those at DeKalb. In October 1980 - just three short years after groundbreaking - ASMC started producing outboard motors at their newly built factory covering over 150 thousand square feet area employing initially around one hundred workers consisting mainly of Japanese engineers sent from Japan along with American workers trained by them. At that time when other manufacturers were using traditional two-stroke engines, Suzuki Marine introduced their first four-stroke engine in 1986. This technology was a game-changer for the marine industry, as it offered better fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to two-stroke engines. The company's innovative approach led them to become one of the largest outboard motor manufacturers in the world. In 1995, ASMC invested over $50 million into expanding its production facility in DeKalb by adding another 200 thousand square feet. By this time, ASMC had already produced and sold more than 500 thousand units of high-quality outboard motors that have been recognized worldwide for their reliability and performance. Throughout the years, Suzuki Marine has continued to expand its product line while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation. In 2013, they launched "Lean Burn Control Technology" for their outboard motors that significantly improved fuel efficiency. This achievement earned them numerous awards from organizations such as National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Boating Industry Magazine. Suzuki Marine's presence in DeKalb has also had a positive impact on the local economy. The manufacturing plant employs around five hundred workers directly and supports many other jobs indirectly through suppliers and distributors. Furthermore, ASMC constantly invests in employee training programs to enhance skills among its workforce while providing competitive wages with excellent benefits packages. Apart from contributing economically, Suzuki Marine actively participates in community activities within DeKalb County. They have partnered with NIU College of Engineering & Engineering Technology (CEET) since 1988 on various projects such as developing new testing equipment for future products or conducting joint student research programs at their facilities. Moreover, Suzuki Marine is committed to environmental conservation efforts through initiatives like "Clean Up Day" where employees volunteer to clean up nearby waterways or donating funds towards ecological preservation projects within DeKalb County Park District areas which include Shabbona Lake State Park - one of Illinois' most visited state parks. In September 2017, Suzuki Motor of America Inc. (SMAI) - the parent company of ASMC - announced its relocation from Bensenville to Marina Towers in Chicago's downtown. However, this does not impact ASMC operations at DeKalb as it continues to be one of their primary production facilities globally with no plans for relocation. In conclusion, Suzuki Marine's history in DeKalb is an inspiring tale of success and growth. From humble beginnings to becoming a global leader in marine technology, the company has remained committed to its core values while contributing positively to the local community and economy. With over four decades of presence in DeKalb and a strong partnership with NIU CEET, we can expect Suzuki Marine to continue being an integral part of the city for many years ahead.

Suzuki Marine is a Japanese company that has been producing high-quality outboard motors for over 60 years. Founded in 1965, the company quickly became one of the leading manufacturers of outboard marine engines and has continued to innovate and improve its products ever since. The History of Suzuki Marine Suzuki Motor Corporation was founded in Hamamatsu, Japan in 1909 as a manufacturer of weaving looms. In the mid-1950s, they began exploring other industries and developed their first motorized bicycle. This led to them entering the motorcycle market in the early 1960s with great success. In 1965, Suzuki decided to expand into the marine industry by creating an outboard engine division called "Outboard Motor Company". Their first model was a small two-stroke engine with only six horsepower, but it proved to be reliable and efficient - setting them apart from other competitors at the time. The following year, they changed their name to "Suzuki Marine Co., Ltd." and have been known as such ever since. Over the next decade, Suzuki continued to grow and develop new technologies for their outboard motors. They introduced four-stroke engines in 1977 - making them one of the pioneers in this technology that would later become an industry standard. By constantly improving their designs and expanding their product line-up, Suzuki Marine became a major player in both domestic and international markets. Innovations & Technological Advancements One of Suzuki's most significant achievements came with its launch of electronic fuel injection (EFI) technology for outboard motors in 1997 - another pioneering move that drastically improved performance while reducing emissions compared to traditional carbureted models. This innovation earned them multiple awards including “Best New Product” at International Boatbuilders' Exhibition & Conference (IBEX), solidifying their position as an industry leader. In addition to EFI technology, Suzuki also leads the way in other advancements such as lean burn control, offset driveshaft, and dual propellers. These features allow for greater fuel efficiency, smoother operation, and better handling - all while reducing harmful emissions. Suzuki also invests heavily in research and development to constantly improve their products. They have a state-of-the-art testing facility in Japan where they simulate extreme conditions to ensure their engines can withstand any challenge on the water. This dedication to innovation has led them to be one of the most trusted brands in the marine industry. Product Line-Up Today, Suzuki Marine offers a wide range of outboard motors from 2.5 horsepower up to 350 horsepower across various series: Portable, Midrange, High Performance & V6 Offshore. Their portable models are lightweight and compact making them ideal for small boats or as backup engines. The midrange series is perfect for larger vessels with more power needs while still being fuel-efficient and easy-to-use. For those seeking high performance options for racing or recreational boating activities such as fishing or water sports - Suzuki's high-performance series delivers unmatched speed and acceleration capabilities without sacrificing reliability. The V6 Offshore Series is designed specifically for larger boats that require maximum power – delivering top speeds along with smooth operation even at high RPMs through advanced technology like counter-rotation gears that reduce vibrations. Customer Satisfaction & Support Suzuki Marine's commitment doesn't end after selling an engine; it continues through its excellent customer support services which include technical assistance hotlines available worldwide (including live chat), online parts catalogs & manuals that make maintenance easier than ever before - ensuring customers get back on the water quickly if there ever is an issue with their engine. Their warranty program is also worth mentioning – offering a standard three-year limited warranty plus additional coverage options giving customers peace of mind when purchasing a Suzuki outboard motor. Environmental Sustainability Initiatives As part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, Suzuki Marine is dedicated to preserving the natural environment and reducing its carbon footprint. Their outboard motors meet or exceed global emissions standards, including the strictest regulations in California (CARB) and Europe (EURO). In addition, Suzuki has implemented a "Green Office" program at all of their facilities worldwide to promote eco-friendliness within their business operations. They also participate in beach clean-up activities and contribute to various marine conservation organizations. Conclusion Suzuki Marine has come a long way since its humble beginnings as an outboard motor division of Suzuki Motor Corporation. With constant innovation, dedication to environmental sustainability, and commitment to customer satisfaction - they have become one of the top players in the industry. Their products are trusted by boaters around the world for their reliability, performance, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. As they continue to push boundaries with new advancements in engine design and environmental initiatives – it's safe to say that Suzuki Marine will remain a leader in the marine industry for many years to come.

Suzuki Marine, a division of the Japanese company Suzuki Motor Corporation, has been operating in DeKalb, Illinois since 1984. The location was chosen for its central location in the United States and proximity to major waterways such as Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River. The history of Suzuki Marine in DeKalb can be traced back to 1965 when the parent company, Suzuki Motor Corporation, established a research and development center for outboard motors in Hamamatsu City, Japan. This led to the production of their first outboard motor in 1965 – an air-cooled two-stroke engine with a displacement of just over six horsepower. As demand for Suzuki’s marine products grew globally, they saw an opportunity to expand their operations overseas. In 1981, Suzuki acquired land in DeKalb with plans to build a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. Construction began in late 1983 and by early summer of 1984, production had begun on four-stroke outboard engines at the newly built plant. Over the years, Suzuki Marine continued to innovate and improve upon their outboard motor technology. In 1997, they introduced their first fuel-injected four-stroke model which offered better fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional carbureted engines. In addition to producing high-quality marine engines at their DeKalb facility, Suzuki also invested heavily in research and development within North America. In fact, from 2000 onwards they have continuously increased R&D budget each year – resulting in more advanced technologies being developed specifically for US boaters. In recent years,Suzuki's presence has expanded beyond just manufacturing facilities. They have also established regional sales offices across North America including one located near Chicago O'Hare international airport - close enough so that engineers can easily visit customers' boats if needed! Today,Suzuki continues its legacy as one of the leading manufacturers of reliable and fuel-efficient outboard motors in the marine industry. Their DeKalb facility remains a vital part of their global operations, producing a wide range of four-stroke engines from 2.5 horsepower to 350 horsepower. In addition to manufacturing, Suzuki Marine also has a strong commitment to supporting local communities and environmental sustainability. They have partnered with organizations such as Keep America Fishing and American Sportfishing Association to promote responsible boating practices and conservation efforts. Overall, Suzuki Marine's presence in DeKalb has not only contributed significantly to the local economy but also solidified their position as an industry leader in marine technology and innovation. With over three decades of success behind them, it is clear that they will continue to be a major player in the marine industry for years to come.

DeKalb, Illinois is a small city located in the northern region of the state. It was founded in 1837 and has a rich history that has shaped its identity over the years. With a population of around 44,000 people, DeKalb may seem like just another ordinary town. However, upon closer inspection, one will find a community full of charm, culture, and opportunities. One of the most notable aspects of DeKalb is its strong agricultural roots. The fertile land surrounding the city provided an ideal environment for farming and attracted many settlers to the area in its early days. This tradition continues today with numerous family-owned farms still operating within close proximity to the city limits. In fact, agriculture remains one of DeKalb's leading industries with corn and soybean production being at the forefront. In addition to agriculture, education also plays a significant role in shaping DeKalb's character. The city is home to Northern Illinois University (NIU), which was established in 1895 as Northern Illinois State Normal School for educating teachers. Today it offers over 59 undergraduate majors and more than 50 graduate programs attracting students from all over the world. With such a diverse student body comes cultural diversity that adds vibrancy to this small town atmosphere. NIU hosts various events throughout the year that brings together different cultures through art exhibitions, music performances, film screenings and guest lectures by renowned speakers on topics ranging from social justice issues to scientific advancements. DeKalb also takes pride in preserving its historical heritage while embracing modern development initiatives. One prime example is Downtown DeKalb -an area filled with historic buildings dating back to late-1800s but now houses trendy bars & restaurants along with unique boutiques offering locally made crafts & goods. The Egyptian Theatre serves as another reminder of this harmonious blend between old-world charm and modernization efforts that make up part of what makes Dekalb special. Built in 1929, this iconic landmark still stands tall and hosts a variety of events from concerts to theatrical performances. For nature lovers, DeKalb offers many parks and outdoor spaces to explore. The Russell Woods Forest Preserve is a popular spot for hiking, bird watching or simply enjoying a picnic with family and friends. There are also several golf courses in the area for those who enjoy hitting the links. But perhaps what truly sets DeKalb apart from other small towns is its sense of community and strong commitment towards civic engagement. Residents take great pride in their city and actively participate in local events such as parades, festivals, and volunteer programs that aim to improve the overall quality of life for everyone. One example of this is "DeKalb County Community Gardens", an organization dedicated to providing fresh produce to those in need while promoting sustainable living practices through various workshops on gardening techniques and healthy eating habits. Another notable initiative by the residents of DeKalb is "Voluntary Action Center (VAC)", which provides support services such as transportation assistance, meal delivery programs for seniors & people with disabilities along with job training resources for low-income individuals seeking employment opportunities within the city. In terms of economic development, DeKalb has seen steady growth over recent years thanks to its strategic location near major highways connecting it to larger cities like Chicago (65 miles) or Madison (130 miles). This has allowed businesses both big & small alike access markets beyond just local consumers leading to greater prosperity within the community at large. Moreover, NIU's presence serves as an incubator for entrepreneurship fueling innovation throughout different sectors ranging from technology startups like Tempus -a healthcare data analytics company founded by one of NIU's alumni- all way down traditional brick-and-mortar ventures such as restaurants & retail stores owned by graduates looking give back roots where they first learned trade before branching out elsewhere across country abroad eventually setting up shop right back home again! In conclusion, DeKalb is a city that may appear unassuming at first glance, but upon closer inspection, reveals itself as a thriving community with a strong sense of identity and purpose. From its agricultural roots to its commitment to education and civic engagement, it continues to grow and evolve while staying true to its values and history. As someone who has lived in DeKalb for many years, I can attest that it truly is a special place filled with opportunities for all who call it home.

Suzuki Marine is a company known for its innovative and high-quality outboard motors, which are used to power boats and other watercraft. The company has a long and rich history dating back to 1920 when it was first founded by Michio Suzuki in Hamamatsu, Japan. Michio Suzuki initially started the company as a manufacturer of weaving looms for the Japanese silk industry. However, with the decline of demand for silk after World War II, he shifted his focus to producing motorized bicycles. This led to the development of small engines that were used both on land and in water. In 1954, Suzuki introduced their first outboard motor – the D55 – which was powered by an air-cooled two-stroke engine with five horsepower. This marked the beginning of Suzuki's venture into marine products and laid the foundation for what would become one of their most successful product lines. Over the years, Suzuki continued to refine its technology and improve its outboard motors' performance. In 1965 they introduced their first four-stroke outboard motor – the DT75 – which had higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to two-stroke engines. This move proved crucial as environmental concerns began to gain more attention globally. In addition to technological advancements, Suzuki also focused on expanding its market reach through strategic partnerships with other companies such as Mercury Marine in North America and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd in Europe. These collaborations helped increase brand recognition worldwide while also providing access to new markets. The 1980s saw significant growth for the company when they launched their flagship model -the DF200- which had a powerful V6 engine capable of delivering up to 200 horsepower while maintaining exceptional fuel economy. This model solidified Suzuki's position as a leader in marine technology innovation. In recent years, sustainability has become an increasingly important aspect of business operations across industries globally. Recognizing this trend early on, Suzuki has made significant efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its products. In 2006, they introduced their first four-stroke outboard motor with lean burn technology, further reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. In 2014, Suzuki became the first company in the world to receive approval from the United Nations for "Blue Sky Certification" for its outboard motors. This certification recognizes companies that make a significant contribution towards sustainable development by promoting low-emission technologies. Today, Suzuki Marine is one of the largest manufacturers of outboard motors in the world, with a presence in over 100 countries. Their product line includes a wide range of models suitable for different types of watercraft and applications. The company continues to invest heavily in research and development to stay at the forefront of marine engine technology. One notable example is their recent partnership with German automotive giant Volkswagen Group to develop high-performance diesel engines specifically designed for use on larger boats and yachts. This collaboration combines Suzuki's expertise in small displacement engines with Volkswagen's experience in developing large marine diesel engines. Apart from technological advancements and collaborations, Suzuki also takes great pride in its customer service and support network. The company provides comprehensive training programs for dealerships worldwide to ensure that customers receive top-notch service wherever they are located. Suzuki Marine's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction has earned them numerous accolades over the years. They were awarded Japan's most prestigious industrial award – The Deming Prize- recognizing their excellence in quality management practices. They have also received several other awards globally acknowledging their contributions towards promoting safe boating practices while protecting our planet's oceans. In conclusion, Suzuki Marine has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a manufacturer of weaving looms almost a century ago. Through continuous innovation and strategic partnerships, they have established themselves as leaders in marine engine technology while maintaining strong commitments towards sustainability and customer satisfaction. Their journey so far serves as an inspiration to other companies in the industry, and their dedication towards improving their products and services shows no signs of slowing down. As we move into a more environmentally conscious future, Suzuki Marine is poised to continue leading the way in providing efficient, high-quality outboard motors for boaters worldwide.

Suzuki Marine is a division of Suzuki Motor Corporation, a multinational corporation based in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan. The company was founded by Michio Suzuki in 1909 as the Suzuki Loom Works to manufacture weaving looms for Japan's booming silk industry. In 1920, Suzuki diversified its production with the introduction of motorized bicycles. In the late 1930s, the Japanese government encouraged domestic companies to develop small engines for use in various industries. Taking advantage of this opportunity, Suzuki developed a new type of engine called "the Power Free," which could be attached to any bicycle frame and turn it into a motorized bicycle. After World War II ended and Japan's economy began to recover, demand for affordable personal transportation increased rapidly. In response to this growing market, Suzuki introduced its first motorcycle - the Colleda COX - in 1954. This marked the beginning of their success as a motorcycle manufacturer. In 1962, at the Tokyo Motor Show, Suzuki unveiled its first car - the Suzulight - which was also Japan's first lightweight car with front-wheel drive. This car helped establish Suzuki as an innovative and forward-thinking company within the automotive industry. In 1965, after establishing itself as one of Japan’s leading motorcycle manufacturers and successfully entering into automobile production, Suzuki decided to expand its business further by venturing into marine outboard motors under its newly formed subsidiary – "Suzuki Marine Co., Ltd." The company began producing outboard motors at their Toyokawa Plant located in Aichi Prefecture. The initial models ranged from small two-stroke engines with capacities between four horsepower (HP) all way up till twenty-five horsepower (HP). These were marketed towards recreational users who enjoyed fishing or leisure boating activities on inland water bodies such as lakes or rivers. As technology advanced over time and consumer demands shifted towards more powerful and efficient engines, Suzuki Marine continued to innovate and expand their product line. In 1977, they introduced the first four-stroke outboard motor - the DT85 - which was a major technological breakthrough in marine engine design. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Suzuki Marine developed even more advanced technologies such as electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems and digital electronic control (DEC) systems for better performance, fuel efficiency, and ease of use. Since then, Suzuki Marine has been at the forefront of marine technology with constant advancements in design and engineering. They have also expanded their global presence by establishing subsidiaries in various countries around the world. Today, Suzuki Marine offers a wide range of outboard motors from small portable models to high-powered V6 engines suitable for a variety of applications including recreational boating, commercial fishing vessels, rescue boats, military operations and more. With over five decades of experience in marine engine manufacturing coupled with cutting-edge technology and exceptional customer service, Suzuki Marine continues to be one of the most trusted names in the boating industry worldwide.

DeKalb, Illinois is a small city located in DeKalb County in the northern part of the state. It is situated approximately 65 miles west of Chicago and has a population of around 44,000 people. The history of DeKalb dates back to the early 1800s when it was first founded by European settlers. The land that would become DeKalb was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Potawatomi and Miami. However, with increasing settlement by Europeans, these tribes were gradually pushed out of their ancestral lands. In 1835, two brothers from New York named Rev. Jesse Walker and Dr. Isaac Paden purchased land in what is now known as DeKalb County. They had plans to establish a new community called "Middlebury" on this land but faced resistance from local Native American tribes who still resided in the area. The conflict between settlers and Native Americans came to an end with the signing of a treaty at Fort Dearborn (now Chicago) in September 1833. This allowed for peaceful settlement and development of towns like Middlebury. One year later, John O'Conor laid out another town called "Northwestern" just north of Middlebury which soon became more prominent than its neighbor due to better transportation links via stagecoach routes. In October 1856, Northwestern officially changed its name to DeKalb after Revolutionary War hero Johann de Kalbe - honoring his service during George Washington's famous crossing of Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776. During this time period, agriculture was the primary industry in DeKalb with corn being one of its main crops along with wheat and oats. However, it wasn't until the arrival of railroads that economic growth truly took off for both DeKalb City and County. In June 1854, construction began on a railroad line connecting Galena (located near Iowa border) with Chicago. This line passed through DeKalb and opened for service in October 1855. As a result, the town saw an influx of new residents and businesses, leading to its incorporation as a city in 1867. The railroad also brought about the establishment of Northern Illinois State Normal School (now known as Northern Illinois University) in 1899. The school's presence further boosted economic growth and development in DeKalb. Throughout the late 19th century, DeKalb continued to flourish with industries such as manufacturing, milling, and grain processing becoming prominent. By the early 20th century, it was one of the largest producers of barbed wire - earning itself the nickname "Barbed Wire Capital of America." In addition to its industrial growth, DeKalb also became known for its education institutions. Along with Northern Illinois University, it is home to Kishwaukee College which was established in 1968. Despite facing challenges during economic downturns like the Great Depression and World War II, DeKalb continued to grow and diversify its economy throughout the mid-20th century. Today, agriculture still plays a significant role in DeKalb's economy along with manufacturing companies such as Nestle USA and Target Distribution Center providing employment opportunities for local residents. DeKalb has also seen cultural diversity increase over time with large populations of Hispanic/Latino and Asian communities now calling it home. In recent years, there have been efforts made by community leaders to revitalize downtown DeKalb through various projects including streetscape improvements and bringing more small businesses into the area. One notable event that put DeKalb on national headlines occurred on February 14th, 2008 when a shooting took place at Northern Illinois University resulting in five fatalities including shooter himself who suffered from mental health issues according to authorities' investigation reports after incident took place Overall, the history of DeKalb reflects how a small town in the Midwest evolved into a diverse city with a strong sense of community. From its humble beginnings as an agricultural settlement to becoming a hub for education and industry, DeKalb has shown resilience and adaptability throughout its history. Today, it continues to grow and develop while honoring its past through preservation of historic buildings and landmarks. The legacy of DeKalb's early settlers and their determination to build a thriving community lives on in the present-day city, making it not only an important part of Illinois' history but also an integral part of America's story.

DeKalb, Illinois is a small city located in northern Illinois, about an hour west of Chicago. The city was founded in 1837 by brothers Isaac and William Ellwood, who purchased land from the government with plans to start a settlement. They named the town "DeKalb" after Johann de Kalb, a German-born American Revolutionary War hero. The early years of DeKalb were centered around agriculture and farming. The fertile prairie land made it an ideal location for settlers to grow crops such as corn, wheat, and oats. In 1853, the arrival of the railroad transformed DeKalb into a major transportation hub for shipping goods and products across the country. In the late 19th century, DeKalb experienced rapid growth due to its thriving industries such as grain milling, furniture manufacturing, and carriage making. One notable company that emerged during this time was Barb City Manufacturing Company (later known as Ideal Industries), which produced innovative agricultural implements such as hay rakes and plows. In addition to its industrial developments, DeKalb also became known for its educational institutions. Northern Illinois University (NIU) was founded in 1895 as Northern Illinois State Normal School to train teachers for rural schools. Over time it evolved into a comprehensive university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. The early 20th century saw continued growth in both industry and education in DeKalb. During World War II, several companies shifted their production capabilities towards supporting the war effort by producing military equipment or supplies. Following WWII came another period of expansion with new housing developments being built to accommodate returning soldiers' families looking for suburban living options outside of Chicago's bustling city limits. Today DeKalb has a diverse economy that includes manufacturing companies like Nestle USA's pizza division along with retail stores like Target and Walmart contributing significantly to employment opportunities within the city. One unique aspect of DeKalb's history is its connection to the barbed wire industry. In 1873, Joseph Glidden invented the first successful type of barbed wire and established a factory in DeKalb to produce it. This invention revolutionized agriculture by making it easier for farmers to fence off their land and protect their crops from wandering livestock. DeKalb also has a rich cultural history with various landmarks, events, and traditions that are still celebrated today. The Egyptian Theatre, built in 1929, is a prominent landmark in downtown DeKalb known for its stunning art deco architecture and hosting live performances and movie screenings. The Corn Fest, an annual festival held every August since 1977, celebrates the city's agricultural roots with carnival rides, food vendors, live music performances, and more. In recent years, DeKalb has seen growth in its technology sector as well. NIU's Center for Governmental Studies offers research support services to government agencies while attracting tech companies looking to establish themselves close to Chicago but outside of the hustle and bustle of the city. Overall, DeKalb's unique blend of agricultural roots combined with industrial innovation has shaped its history into what it is today – a thriving small city that continues to evolve while honoring its past.

Suzuki Marine has a rich history in DeKalb, Illinois that dates back to the 1970s. The company's presence in this small city has played an important role in its growth and success over the years. From humble beginnings as a distributor for Suzuki outboard motors to becoming one of the leading manufacturers of marine engines, Suzuki Marine has made a significant impact on DeKalb's economy and community. The story of Suzuki Marine's journey in DeKalb began when John Crouch started selling Suzuki outboard motors at his dealership, JC Outboards, in 1977. At that time, JC Outboards was just a small shop located on Route 38 with only two employees – John and his wife Carol. Little did they know that their decision to partner with Suzuki would mark the beginning of something much bigger. As demand for Suzuki outboard motors grew, so did the need for more space and resources. In 1984, JC Outboards moved into a larger facility on Barber Greene Road which allowed them to expand their inventory and services. This move also marked the birth of American International Distribution Corp (AIDC) - an independent distributorship owned by John Crouch. In 1986, AIDC became incorporated as American International Distributing Inc., establishing itself as one of four distributors across North America responsible for importing Japanese-made products from Japan’s parent company – Japan Export Trading Co., Ltd (JET). This partnership between JET and AIDC led to significant growth opportunities for both companies. With business booming, JET saw potential in expanding its operations beyond distribution into manufacturing. After considering several locations across North America, JET decided to construct its first overseas factory right here in DeKalb Illinois where it had established strong roots through AIDC. Construction began on what was then called "Project Eagle" or "Eagle Plant" at Park Avenue West Industrial Park next to the Northern Illinois University campus in 1993. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by local officials, including DeKalb Mayor Greg Sparrow and Governor Jim Edgar. The Eagle Plant officially opened its doors on October 26th, 1994 with a production capacity of 30,000 units annually. This state-of-the-art facility spanned over 23 acres and housed an assembly plant, research & development center, warehouse space and offices. It also created over two hundred jobs for the local community. As Suzuki Marine continued to grow in popularity worldwide due to their high-quality products and cutting-edge technology, the Eagle Plant underwent multiple expansions throughout the years. In fact, it became one of Suzuki's largest overseas manufacturing facilities by producing over three million outboard motors to date. Suzuki Marine has not only made a significant impact on DeKalb's economy but has also been actively involved in supporting various community initiatives. From sponsoring local events such as "Tunes On The Terrace" at NIU’s Anderson Hall to participating in fundraising efforts for charities like Feed'em Soup Community Project - Suzuki Marine has always had a strong presence within the community. In addition, AIDC established an education fund through Kishwaukee College that provides scholarships to students pursuing technical degrees related to marine engines or boat maintenance – further showcasing their commitment towards investing in future generations. Over time, Suzuki Marine's growth led them to consolidate their operations from JC Outboards' facility into the Eagle Plant under one roof – increasing efficiency and productivity while strengthening their roots even deeper into DeKalb's business landscape. Today, Suzuki continues its legacy as a leading manufacturer of marine engines with advanced technologies such as Lean Burn Control System which improves fuel efficiency while reducing emissions – making them environmentally friendly and sustainable leaders in this industry. Their success story serves as an inspiration for other businesses looking to establish themselves within small communities like DeKalb Illinois where hard work and dedication can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Suzuki Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors and other marine products. Founded in 1965, Suzuki Marine has become a trusted name in the boating industry with its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. The company's journey began with its founder, Michio Suzuki. He was an inventor who had a passion for mechanical engineering and wanted to create new technologies that would improve people's lives. In the early days of Suzuki Motor Corporation, he focused on creating compact cars and motorcycles. However, his vision extended beyond land vehicles; he also saw potential in the marine industry. In 1965, Suzuki introduced their first outboard motor – the D55 model. This marked the beginning of their venture into the marine market. The motor quickly gained popularity due to its lightweight design and powerful performance. Over time, Suzuki continued to invest in research and development to enhance their products' features and efficiency. One significant breakthrough came in 1978 when they launched their first four-stroke engine –the DT25C model. Before this innovation, two-stroke engines were prevalent due to their simple design and low cost but were known for being noisy and polluting water bodies with oil residues from fuel combustion. The introduction of four-stroke engines changed this narrative as it produced less noise while reducing emissions significantly. Since then, Suzuki has been at the forefront of developing advanced technology for outboard motors such as electronic fuel injection (EFI), lean burn control systems (LBC), selective rotation technology (SRT), variable valve timing (VVT), among others. These advancements have improved engine performance while minimizing environmental impact by providing better fuel efficiency while reducing exhaust emissions. Apart from outboard motors, Suzuki Marine also produces boat propellers that are designed specifically for each engine size to maximize thrust efficiency while maintaining optimal speed levels without overloading or under-loading an engine's power capacity. Today, after more than half a century since its inception, Suzuki Marine has established itself as a global leader in the marine industry. The company has expanded its reach to over 100 countries, with manufacturing facilities located in Japan and Thailand. It also has a vast network of dealerships and service centers globally, ensuring that customers can access support wherever they are. Suzuki Marine's product line includes four-stroke outboard motors ranging from 2.5 horsepower to 350 horsepower, suitable for various watercraft such as fishing boats, pontoon boats, runabouts, and even large vessels like yachts. They also offer an extended warranty program for their products to provide peace of mind to their customers. Aside from their commitment to providing high-quality products and services, Suzuki Marine is also dedicated to protecting the environment through sustainable practices. Their engines are designed with advanced technology that reduces fuel consumption while minimizing emissions into the water bodies where they operate. In addition to this, the company actively participates in beach clean-up programs and other environmental initiatives around the world. They also promote responsible boating practices by educating boaters on proper maintenance procedures and encouraging them not to leave any trash or pollutants behind when out at sea. Furthermore, Suzuki Marine values safety above all else and continuously works towards improving safety features in their products. All outboard motors come with a kill switch lanyard that automatically shuts off the engine if a person falls overboard – reducing accidents involving propeller injuries significantly. Moreover, Suzuki offers digital gauges equipped with warning systems that alert users of potential issues before they develop into significant problems. This feature helps prevent engine failure during use – keeping both people onboard and marine life safe. In conclusion, Suzuki Marine has made significant strides since its humble beginnings in 1965 when it introduced its first outboard motor model D55C. Through continuous innovation guided by Michio Suzuki's vision of creating technologies that improve lives while being environmentally responsible; today stands as one of the most trusted names in the marine industry. With a strong commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability, Suzuki Marine is sure to continue leading the way in the boating world for many more years to come.