Suzuki Marine is a world-renowned manufacturer of outboard motors, known for its high-quality and reliable products. The company has a long history that dates back to 1920 when they first started producing weaving looms in Japan. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that Suzuki Marine ventured into the marine industry with their first outboard motor. In this paper, we will explore the rich history of Suzuki Marine in Freeport, Illinois – one of their main production sites in North America. We will take a closer look at how the company established itself in Freeport and how it has contributed to the local community over the years. The Beginning Suzuki's presence in Freeport began with an agreement between American Motors Corporation (AMC) and Suzuki Motor Company Ltd. In 1979, AMC entered into an agreement with Suzuki to produce vehicles under license from them. However, due to declining sales and financial difficulties at AMC, they terminated this agreement after only two years. As part of this deal, AMC also agreed to provide Suzuki with manufacturing facilities for motorcycle production on their property located in Freeport. This was a strategic move by both companies as they saw potential growth opportunities for motorcycles in North America. Expansion into Outboard Motors In 1985, just six years after entering into an agreement with AMC; Suzuki decided to expand its operations beyond motorcycles by venturing into outboard motor production at their facility located on South Adams Avenue in Freeport. At that time, there were already other major players like Mercury Marine and Evinrude dominating the market; however, Suzuki saw great potential for growth by offering innovative designs and advanced technology at competitive prices. Initially starting with only three models: DT115TCX-140TCX-150TCX - these engines quickly gained popularity among boaters due to their lightweight design and fuel efficiency compared to others available on the market at that time. This led to a rapid increase in production, which required the company to expand its facilities and workforce. Expansion and Growth As Suzuki Marine continued to grow, they needed more space for their production lines and offices. In 1987, they acquired an additional property on South Avenue where a new facility was built. This allowed them to ramp up their outboard motor production and introduce new models such as the DT65-75-85TCX series. In addition to expanding their operations, Suzuki also prioritized investing in research and development. They opened a state-of-the-art technology center at their Freeport location in 1990 – making it one of only two research facilities outside of Japan at that time. Suzuki Marine's dedication to innovation paid off when they introduced the world’s first four-stroke outboard motor - DF60A/70A - in 1998. The company's commitment towards providing efficient and environmentally-friendly products gained recognition from boaters worldwide. Partnerships with Local Community Apart from being an important economic contributor through job creation, Suzuki Marine has also formed partnerships with local organizations over the years aimed at giving back to the community. One notable partnership is between Suzuki Marine USA Inc., City of Freeport, Stephenson County Workforce Investment Board (SCWIB), Highland Community College (HCC), Northwest Illinois Development Alliance (NIDA) & Rockford Area Economic Development Council (RAEDC). Together they launched “Marine Outboard Production Technician Program”, which offers training opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in marine manufacturing industry right here in Freeport itself. This program has been successful not just for students but also for the company as it helps develop future employees with specific skills related to Suzuki’s manufacturing processes resulting in higher productivity levels while reducing employee turnover rates. Other initiatives by Suzuki include donating funds towards local schools' STEM programs, organizing charity motorcycle rides benefitting various causes, and sponsoring local events such as the annual Pretzel City Brewfest. Conclusion In conclusion, Suzuki Marine's presence in Freeport has not only brought economic benefits to the community but also contributed towards technological advancements in marine manufacturing. The company's commitment to innovation, quality, and community partnerships has helped it establish a strong foothold in North America. From starting with motorcycle production on AMC’s property to becoming one of the top manufacturers of outboard motors globally – Suzuki Marine’s journey in Freeport is a true testament to their determination and dedication towards providing superior products. As they continue to grow and expand their operations, we can only anticipate more success for this iconic brand in the years to come.

Suzuki Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors and marine engines, known for their innovative technology, reliability, and performance. Established in 1920 by Michio Suzuki as the Suzuki Loom Works, the company initially produced weaving looms before expanding into other industries such as motorcycles, automobiles, and marine products. In 1965, Suzuki introduced its first outboard motor – the D55 – which received praise for its lightweight design and high power output. This marked the beginning of Suzuki's journey in the marine industry. Over the years, Suzuki has continued to push boundaries with cutting-edge technologies and advanced features that have set them apart from competitors. One of their most notable achievements was introducing electronic fuel injection (EFI) technology to outboard motors in 1997. This revolutionary development improved fuel efficiency while reducing emissions at a time when environmental concerns were becoming increasingly important. In addition to EFI technology, Suzuki also implemented Lean Burn Control System on their larger models in 2009. This system automatically adjusts air/fuel ratio based on engine load conditions to further optimize fuel consumption. Another key innovation from Suzuki is their drive-by-wire system called Precision Control (P-Ctrl). Introduced in 2012, P-Ctrl enables smoother control of throttle response and shifting through digital communication between helm controls and engine systems. It also allows for easy integration with third-party navigation systems. Suzuki Marine has always prioritized research and development to improve their products continuously. They established an R&D center dedicated solely to developing marine products in Hamamatsu City, Japan - home base for all things related to watercraft within the company. Their commitment towards sustainability can be seen through various initiatives such as using recycled materials in manufacturing processes and implementing environmental management systems across all facilities globally. Product quality is another area where Suzuki excels; they offer extended warranties on all new engines up to five years with optional protection plans available beyond that. This speaks to the confidence they have in their products' durability and reliability, backed by rigorous testing and quality control measures. In addition to outboard motors, Suzuki also produces a range of four-stroke marine engines used in various applications such as generators, water pumps, and even snowmobiles. These engines are renowned for their quiet operation, fuel efficiency, and low emission levels. Suzuki Marine has a global presence with distribution channels in over 100 countries worldwide. They have established partnerships with boat manufacturers such as Grady-White Boats and Carolina Skiff to provide customers with complete packages – high-quality boats equipped with Suzuki's state-of-the-art outboard motors. The company also values customer satisfaction immensely; they offer comprehensive after-sales service support through authorized dealerships globally. Their website is user-friendly, providing customers with easy access to product information, manuals, warranty details, maintenance tips & tricks - making it easier for owners to take care of their Suzuki-powered vessels. Moreover, Suzuki Marine is an active participant in boating events worldwide; they sponsor fishing tournaments like the Bassmaster Elite Series and host annual owner appreciation events where customers get the opportunity to interact directly with company representatives. In recent years there has been a shift towards electric propulsion systems within the marine industry due to increasing concerns about environmental impact. In response to this trend Suzuki has launched its first battery-powered outboard motor -the DF25A/DF30A Electric-, which offers zero-emission performance while maintaining power output comparable to internal combustion counterparts. This shows that Suzuki is committed not only towards improving current technologies but also exploring alternative options for future growth. In conclusion: With almost six decades of experience under its belt in producing reliable marine products coupled with continuous innovation driven by research & development activities- it's no wonder that Suzuki Marine holds a leading position within the industry today. The brand continues striving towards excellence while remaining conscious of environmental impacts on our planet, and this is what sets them apart from their competitors. Suzuki Marine's success story is a testament to the company's founding principles of providing "products that contribute to society" - and one can only imagine the possibilities for the future as they continue to push boundaries in marine technology.

Suzuki Marine, a division of Suzuki Motor Corporation, has a long history in Freeport, Illinois. The company first entered the marine industry in 1965 when it began producing outboard motors under the brand name "Suzulight". In 1977, the company started manufacturing motorcycles and automobiles as well. In 1981, Suzuki established its North American headquarters for its motorcycle and ATV divisions in Brea, California. However, as demand for their marine products grew in the US market, Suzuki decided to expand their operations to include outboard motor production at their newly acquired plant in Freeport. The decision to establish a manufacturing facility in Freeport was strategic due to its central location within the United States and access to major waterways such as the Mississippi River. This allowed for efficient distribution of products across North America. Construction on the new facility began in September of 1982 and by March of 1983 it was officially opened with an initial investment of $40 million. The plant initially produced just two models – DT115 and DT140 – but over time expanded its product line to include smaller horsepower engines ranging from 2hp up to 300hp. Throughout the years, Suzuki Marine's presence in Freeport continued to grow with expansions made to increase production capacity and accommodate new models being added to their lineup. In addition, they also invested heavily into research and development at this location which resulted in innovative technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems being incorporated into their outboard motors. Today, Suzuki Marine is one of the largest employers in Freeport with over 500 employees working at their state-of-the-art facility that spans across approximately one million square feet. Their highly skilled workforce produces an average of around 50 thousand units per year which are distributed throughout North America and exported globally. In recent years, Suzuki Marine has also made significant strides towards sustainability by implementing eco-friendly practices within their manufacturing processes. This includes the use of renewable energy sources and reducing waste through recycling initiatives. Through its decades-long history in Freeport, Suzuki Marine has established itself as a leading manufacturer of high-quality outboard motors known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. The company's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation has solidified its position as a key player in the marine industry not only in Freeport but globally.

Freeport, Illinois is a small city located in the heart of Stephenson County in northern Illinois. With a population of over 25,000 people, it may not seem like much compared to larger cities nearby such as Chicago and Rockford. However, Freeport has a rich history and unique charm that sets it apart from other cities. The city’s name was derived from its location at the confluence of the Pecatonica and Mississippi Rivers. It was founded by settlers John Bower and William Ward in 1835. The area quickly grew due to its prime location for trade with neighboring states and became an important stop on the Underground Railroad during the Civil War era. One of Freeport’s most notable historical events took place on August 27, 1858 when Abraham Lincoln debated Stephen Douglas at Debate Square Park (now known as Taylor Park). This historic debate is famously known as the “Freeport Debate” where Lincoln questioned Douglas’ stance on slavery and helped propel him to national attention leading up to his presidential election two years later. Today, visitors can still visit Debate Square Park where there are statues commemorating both Lincoln and Douglas. In addition, there is also a museum dedicated to this event called the "Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum" which offers interactive exhibits showcasing their famous debate. Aside from its rich history, Freeport also boasts several beautiful parks with scenic views such as Krape Park which features a lake for boating and fishing along with hiking trails. The park also hosts various events throughout the year including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations. For those interested in art and culture, Freeport has multiple galleries showcasing local artists' work such as Fine Lines Art Gallery & Studio or Rafters Arts Collective. There are also several theaters within the city including Winneshiek Playhouse which puts on live theater performances all year round. In terms of education opportunities, Freeport is home to several highly ranked schools including Freeport High School and Highland Community College. The city also has a strong commitment to education with various programs in place to support students’ academic success. Economically, Freeport is known for its manufacturing industry. Companies such as Honeywell and Newell Brands have been a vital part of the city’s economy for decades, providing job opportunities for residents. In recent years, there has also been an increase in entrepreneurship and small businesses within the community, adding diversity to the local economy. One of the biggest draws to Freeport is its sense of community. Despite being a relatively small city, it offers a variety of events throughout the year that bring people together such as Pretzel City Brewfest which showcases local breweries and wineries or Music on Chicago Avenue where live music can be enjoyed while strolling through downtown shops. In addition, there are numerous volunteer organizations and civic groups that work towards improving the community through events like clean-up days or fundraisers for local charities. This strong sense of community is what makes Freeport such a welcoming and friendly place to live. Freeport may not have all the glitz and glamour of larger cities but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for with its rich history, beautiful parks, thriving arts scene, quality education system, strong economy and close-knit community. It's no wonder why so many people choose to call this charming city home. In conclusion ,Freeport truly encompasses everything one could want in a hometown – from its deep historical roots to its modern amenities – making it an ideal place to live or visit. Whether you're interested in exploring history at Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum or enjoying nature at Krape Park; whether you prefer attending theater performances at Winneshiek Playhouse or supporting local businesses during street festivals; whether you're looking for job opportunities at major corporations or seeking out new adventures by starting your own business – Freeport, Illinois has something for everyone.

Suzuki Marine is a Japanese company that specializes in manufacturing outboard motors for boats and other marine applications. The company was founded in 1920 by Michio Suzuki as the Suzuki Loom Works, which initially produced weaving looms for the textile industry. However, with the decline of demand for looms after World War II, Suzuki shifted its focus to producing small engines. In 1955, Suzuki introduced its first motorized bicycle called "Power Free," which had a two-stroke engine mounted on a bicycle frame. This marked the beginning of Suzuki's venture into the world of motorcycles and later on, outboard motors. The first outboard motor produced by Suzuki was a 3-horsepower model in 1965, followed by larger models with more power over the next few years. In 1977, they launched their first four-stroke outboard motor - an innovation that would set them apart from their competitors. Throughout the following decades, Suzuki continued to improve and expand its line of outboard motors. They were one of the first companies to introduce electronic fuel injection technology in their motors and also developed four-stroke engines with lean burn control systems for better fuel efficiency. In 1998, Yamaha Motor Corporation acquired shares in SMC (Suzuki Motor Corporation) making it one of their major shareholders. This partnership allowed both companies to collaborate and share technologies while still competing in the market independently. One significant milestone for Suzuki Marine came in 2009 when they introduced their DF300AP - a powerful V6 engine equipped with dual propellers known as “contra-rotating” propellers. This innovative design provided exceptional handling and performance capabilities compared to traditional single-propeller designs. Over time, Suzuki has become well-known for producing high-quality and reliable outboard motors suitable for various types of boats ranging from recreational fishing boats to commercial vessels. Aside from continually improving their products' technological capabilities, Suzuki also prioritizes environmental sustainability in their manufacturing processes. In 2011, they introduced the world's first ever "lean burn" outboard motor that significantly reduced fuel consumption and emissions. In recent years, Suzuki has also expanded its reach and established a strong presence in the global market by collaborating with other leading marine companies. In 2019, they formed a partnership with Beneteau Group - one of the largest boat manufacturers in Europe- to develop new propulsion systems for their boats. Today, Suzuki Marine offers a wide range of outboard motors ranging from 2.5 horsepower to 350 horsepower for various types of boats. They have also diversified into other areas such as jet skis and electric motors for small watercraft. The company's success can be attributed not only to its innovative technology but also to its commitment to customer satisfaction and after-sales service. With over 100 authorized dealers worldwide and an extensive network of service centers, customers can rely on Suzuki for excellent support throughout their ownership experience. Looking towards the future, Suzuki is continuously investing in research and development to improve their products' efficiency while reducing environmental impact further. They aim to become one of the top players in the marine industry by providing exceptional performance combined with eco-friendly solutions. In conclusion, Suzuki Marine has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a loom manufacturer almost a century ago. Through continuous innovation and dedication towards customer satisfaction, they have cemented themselves as one of the leaders in the production of reliable outboard motors for both recreational and commercial use globally.

Suzuki Marine is a division of the Japanese multinational corporation, Suzuki Motor Corporation. The company was founded in 1909 by Michio Suzuki as a loom manufacturing company called Suzuki Loom Works. In 1954, after World War II, the company decided to diversify its business and entered into the motorcycle industry. However, it wasn't until 1965 that Suzuki made its first foray into marine products with the introduction of an outboard motor prototype. This prototype had a three-horsepower engine and was showcased at a boat show in Tokyo. It received positive feedback from customers and soon after, in 1966, Suzuki officially launched their first production outboard motor – the D55. Over time, Suzuki continued to develop and improve their outboard motors with advanced technology such as electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems and lean burn control systems. In 1977, they introduced their first four-stroke outboard motor - the DT25C - which set new standards for environmental performance. In addition to constantly innovating their products, Suzuki also focused on expanding its global presence in the marine market. They established subsidiaries across Europe and North America during the late 1980s and early 1990s. In recent years, sustainability has become an important focus for many companies including Suzuki Marine. In response to this growing concern over environmental impact from boating activities, they have developed eco-friendly technologies such as lean burn control system (LBC), which reduces emissions while maintaining high performance levels. Today,Suzuki Marine offers a full range of technologically advanced two-stroke and four-stroke outboards ranging from 2.5 horsepower up to their flagship model DF350A V6 with dual propellers that delivers superior power output while being environmentally friendly. Suzuki's dedication towards research & development has earned them several accolades including multiple "Most Innovative New Product" awards at major international boat shows. They have also won numerous awards for their environmental initiatives, including the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Innovation Award for their dual propeller DF350A outboard motor. In addition to producing high-quality outboard motors, Suzuki Marine is also committed to providing exceptional customer service and support. They offer a comprehensive warranty program and world-class training programs for dealers to ensure that customers receive top-notch service at all times. With over 50 years of experience in the marine industry, Suzuki has become a trusted name in boating communities around the world. Their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction continues to drive them towards even greater achievements in the future.

Located in northwestern Illinois, Freeport is a small city with a rich history. It was originally founded as Winneshiek by the Ho-Chunk Native American tribe before being settled by European Americans in the early 1800s. Over time, it has grown to become an important industrial and agricultural center in the state. The first major event in Freeport's history occurred in 1835 when fur trader William "Tutty" Baker arrived and established a trading post on the banks of the Rock River. This attracted other settlers to the area, and by 1837, there were enough people to officially incorporate Freeport as a town. The name was changed from Winneshiek to Freeport due to its location near one of Illinois' few natural ports on the Pecatonica River. One of Freeport's most notable historical figures is Abraham Lincoln, who lived here for several years during his early career as a lawyer. In fact, he gave his famous “House Divided” speech at City Hall Square (now known as Debate Square) during his campaign for Senator against Stephen Douglas in 1858. Today, this site is marked by a bronze statue commemorating their debates. During the mid-1800s, Freeport experienced significant growth thanks to its strategic location along transportation routes such as railroads and waterways. Its proximity to Chicago also made it an ideal place for manufacturing industries like lumber mills and furniture factories. By 1860, it had become one of Illinois' largest cities with over 10,000 residents. However, like many cities at that time period, Freeport was not immune to conflict over social issues such as slavery and racial equality. In August of 1852, Frederick Douglass visited Freeport and delivered an abolitionist speech that caused quite a stir among local citizens who held differing opinions on slavery. The Civil War also had an impact on this small city. Freeport sent hundreds of soldiers to fight for the Union, and its industries played a crucial role in supplying goods for the war effort. After the war, Freeport's economy continued to thrive with the growth of new industries such as brewing, cigar making, and foundries. In 1903, disaster struck when a massive fire destroyed most of downtown Freeport. The city was able to quickly rebuild with improved infrastructure and modern buildings that still stand today. Despite this setback, Freeport continued to grow and evolve into an important industrial hub in Illinois. The early 20th century also saw significant social changes in Freeport. In 1912, it became one of the first cities in Illinois to implement zoning laws which helped regulate urban development. The Prohibition era also had an impact on this city as many breweries were forced to close down but later reopened after prohibition was repealed. During World War II, Freeport once again played a vital role in supporting America’s efforts by producing munitions and other supplies for the war effort. Afterward, manufacturing remained a dominant industry until economic shifts caused many factories to close their doors or relocate overseas. Today, agriculture is still an essential part of life in Freeport with corn being its primary crop along with soybeans and dairy farming. However, there has been recent growth in healthcare services and technology sectors that have helped diversify the local economy. Throughout its history, Freeport has faced various challenges but has always managed to overcome them through resilience and innovation. Its rich heritage can be seen through its well-preserved historic buildings like City Hall Square (Debate Square), Oakdale Cemetery where Civil War soldiers are buried alongside famous leaders like Lincoln-Douglas Debates moderator Owen Lovejoy who lived here his entire life from 1824-1864 before becoming U.S Congressman Andrew Jackson Lovejoy. Today, visitors can explore these historic sites while also enjoying modern amenities such as shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. The city also hosts several annual events that celebrate its heritage, including the Lincoln-Douglas Debates reenactment and the Stephenson County Fair. In addition to its historical significance, Freeport is a diverse community with a strong sense of community pride. It has a thriving arts scene with galleries, studios, and public art installations throughout the city. Education is also highly valued here with quality schools at all levels, including Highland Community College. Freeport's history is not only reflected in its physical landmarks but also in the stories and traditions passed down from generation to generation. The Winneshiek Playhouse has been entertaining audiences since 1916 as one of Illinois' oldest continuously operating community theaters. And every year since 1949, residents have gathered for "Pretzel City" Homecoming to honor their German heritage by eating pretzels and participating in festivities. In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve Freeport's rich history through projects such as restoring historic buildings like the Rawleigh Complex – once an industrial powerhouse that now houses local businesses – or creating walking tours showcasing the city’s significant sites. As it continues to grow and evolve into a modern metropolis while honoring its past roots deeply embedded within agriculture industry heartland culture; Freeport remains true to itself by embracing diversity yet cherishing tradition. Its resilience over time exemplifies how this small town has grown into an important part of Illinois' history while remaining steadfastly connected to its humble beginnings along Rock River banks where fur trader William "Tutty" Baker first set up his trading post so many years ago.

Freeport, Illinois is a city located in the northwest corner of Illinois. It was founded in 1835 by John T. Williams and his wife, Mary W. Clark, who named it "Freeport" as a symbol of their anti-slavery beliefs. In its early days, Freeport was primarily an agricultural town with a strong focus on wheat production. However, the arrival of the railroad in 1853 brought new opportunities for growth and development to the area. The railroad allowed for easier transport of goods and people, leading to an increase in industry and commerce. One notable event in Freeport's history took place during the Lincoln-Douglas debates of 1858. On August 27th of that year, Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas faced off in a heated debate at Debate Square (now known as Taylor Park) over the issue of slavery. This debate became famous for highlighting the stark differences between Northern and Southern views on slavery. In addition to being significant during this historic political event, Freeport also played a role in another major moment in American history: women's suffrage. In October 1919, just one month before ratification of the 19th Amendment granted women across America the right to vote, over five hundred delegates from all over Illinois gathered at Freeport's Masonic Temple for a convention advocating for women's voting rights. Throughout much of its history, Freeport has been known as an industrial hub with companies such as Newell Brands (formerly Rubbermaid), Honeywell Aerospace Systems & Services Division (formerly Allied Signal), Kraft Foods Group Inc., Nestle Nutrition/Gerber Products Co., among others establishing operations here. Today, Freeport continues to thrive as both an industrial center and a close-knit community filled with rich cultural heritage and diverse backgrounds.The city boasts numerous parks including Krape Park which features boating lakes,and sports facilities; Little Cubs Field -a miniature replica of Wrigley Field; and the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Square, which has been designated a National Historic Landmark. Freeport is also home to Highland Community College, one of the top community colleges in Illinois. The college offers a variety of programs and courses for students seeking higher education or career training. In recent years, Freeport has faced economic challenges with the decline of its manufacturing industry. However, efforts are being made to revitalize the city through initiatives such as downtown revitalization projects and promoting entrepreneurship. The annual Pretzel Festival celebrates Freeport's unique history as the birthplace of the first pretzel bakery in America. Overall, Freeport's rich history and continued growth make it an important city in Illinois that continues to hold onto its small-town charm while embracing progress and diversity.

Suzuki Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors, boat engines, and related marine products. The company was founded in 1965 in Japan by Michio Suzuki, who had previously established the Suzuki Loom Works in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture in 1909. Over the years, Suzuki Marine has grown to become one of the largest manufacturers of marine engines and has a strong presence around the world. In 1986, Suzuki Marine decided to expand its operations into North America and chose Freeport, Illinois as their first location. This move was strategic as it allowed them to tap into the rich history and expertise of boat manufacturing that existed within this region. Freeport has long been known for its strong ties to the boating industry. In fact, Freeport's earliest industries were centered on lumbering and milling along with shipping goods via river transportation systems. This laid the foundation for a thriving shipbuilding industry which eventually led to many companies establishing themselves in this area. The decision by Suzuki Marine to choose Freeport as their base of operations was a wise one as they were able to tap into an experienced workforce that had a deep understanding of boat building techniques. Additionally, being centrally located between major waterways such as Lake Michigan and Mississippi River provided convenient access for both production materials and finished products. To establish their presence in Freeport further, Suzuki Marine acquired an existing factory from Outboard Manufacturing Corporation (OMC) which had recently gone bankrupt due to financial troubles. The facility consisted of over 100 acres with several buildings totaling over half a million square feet including foundries capable of casting large engine blocks used for V6 outboards. With this acquisition came skilled workers who had experience working on OMC's Johnson/Evinrude brand outboards which were highly regarded within the industry at that time. These workers would prove valuable assets during training programs conducted by Japanese engineers sent from Tokyo headquarters to the United States. The first outboard motor produced in Freeport under Suzuki Marine was a 2.5 horsepower model, which rolled off the production line on January 31st, 1987. The following year, they expanded their product offerings with the release of two new models: a four-cylinder V4 and a six-cylinder V6 engine. In addition to manufacturing outboard motors, Suzuki Marine also established a research and development center in Freeport where engineers worked closely with customers and dealers to develop cutting-edge technology for marine engines. This allowed them to continuously improve their products and stay ahead of competitors in terms of performance, efficiency, and reliability. Over the years, Suzuki Marine has continued to expand its operations in Freeport by investing millions of dollars into upgrading facilities and increasing production capacity. In 2019 alone, they announced plans for an additional $55 million investment over five years which will create new jobs within the community. Today, Suzuki Marine is considered one of the top brands within the marine industry due to its innovative products that are known for their durability and fuel efficiency. Their presence in Freeport has not only benefitted the company but also provided countless job opportunities for local residents while contributing significantly to economic growth within the region. In conclusion, Suzuki Marine's decision to establish its North American headquarters in Freeport was pivotal both for the company's success as well as boosting economic development within this region. With over three decades since its establishment here, it is clear that this partnership between Suzuki Marine and Freeport has yielded positive results not just for both parties involved but also for boaters around the world who enjoy reliable and efficient marine engines from this reputable brand.

Suzuki Marine is a division of the globally recognized Japanese company, Suzuki Motor Corporation. Established in 1965, Suzuki Marine has been a pioneer in the marine industry with their innovative technology and high-quality products. The company's focus on outboard motors and boat engines has made them one of the leading manufacturers in this sector. They have continuously evolved their designs to meet the changing needs of boaters and fishermen worldwide. One of Suzuki Marine's biggest strengths is its commitment to innovation. The company invests heavily in research and development to create cutting-edge technologies that improve performance, fuel efficiency, and environmental sustainability. For example, they were among the first companies to introduce electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems for outboard motors, which significantly reduced emissions while also improving engine response. Their dedication to innovation can be seen through their range of products, which includes four-stroke engines ranging from 2.5 horsepower up to 350 horsepower. These engines are designed for various types of boats such as fishing vessels, recreational boats, pontoon boats as well as commercial applications like ferries or water taxis. In addition to outboard motors, Suzuki Marine also offers a wide range of accessories such as propellers, gauges and controls systems that complement their engines perfectly. This allows customers to customize their boating experience according to their specific needs. Apart from quality products backed by advanced technology and continuous innovation; Suzuki Marine boasts an extensive network across more than 100 countries globally with over 2000 authorized dealerships providing sales support services along with after-sales service throughout customer’s ownership period ensuring complete satisfaction at all times. Suzuki Marine's mission is not only limited to producing top-of-the-line marine engines but also focuses on creating eco-friendly solutions for sustainable boating experiences. In line with this vision; they have developed "Lean Burn" technology which optimizes fuel consumption by adjusting air-fuel ratio based on engine load conditions resulting in a significant reduction of fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, their engines are designed to meet the strictest environmental regulations such as the EPA's (Environmental Protection Agency) Tier III standards. Suzuki Marine also prioritizes customer satisfaction by providing reliable products that require minimal maintenance. Their engines are known for their durability and long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. However, in case of any issues, Suzuki Marine has a dedicated service network with highly trained technicians who can provide prompt assistance. Another aspect that sets Suzuki Marine apart from its competitors is its commitment to safety. All their outboard motors go through rigorous testing before being released into the market to ensure they meet international safety standards. Moreover, Suzuki Marine takes responsibility for protecting marine life by implementing measures such as using biodegradable oils in their lower units and conducting extensive research on ways to minimize the impact of boating on aquatic environments. Apart from producing top-quality products and promoting sustainable practices, Suzuki Marine is also actively involved in various social initiatives worldwide. The company has partnered with organizations like "The Ocean Foundation" which focuses on preserving ocean habitats and maritime culture while educating people about responsible boating practices. In conclusion, Suzuki Marine is not just a company that manufactures outboard motors; it is an organization driven by innovation, sustainability, quality assurance and customer satisfaction. With over 50 years of experience in the industry backed by advanced technology; they have established themselves as leaders in the marine industry globally while continuously striving towards creating better solutions for boaters around the world. Their dedication towards producing eco-friendly products along with their involvement in social causes demonstrate how this company goes beyond just business goals but also strives to make a positive impact on society as well as our oceans' health. As we move towards a more environmentally conscious future; companies like Suzuki Marine serve as role models for others within this sector; inspiring them to adopt similar values and contribute towards building a greener tomorrow.