Mercury Marine is a company that has been an integral part of Moline, Illinois for over 80 years. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, the company has played a significant role in shaping the economic and cultural landscape of this small Midwestern city. The story of Mercury Marine's history in Moline begins with its founder, Carl Kiekhaefer. Born and raised in Wisconsin, Kiekhaefer was a skilled mechanic who had a passion for tinkering with engines. In 1939, he purchased a bankrupt outboard motor manufacturing company called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company and moved it to Moline, Illinois. Initially operating under the name “Kiekhaefer Corporation,” the company produced tiny two-stroke outboard motors designed for fishing boats. These early models were not very successful due to their low power output and high price point. However, Kiekhaefer saw potential in his business and continued to innovate and improve upon his designs. In 1946, he renamed his company "Mercury Marine" after the Roman god Mercury – known as the messenger of the gods – symbolizing speed and agility. This name change marked a turning point for Mercury Marine as they began producing larger motors with more horsepower at competitive prices. As demand for outboard motors grew during World War II when gasoline rationing made boating an attractive recreational activity, so did Mercury Marine’s production capabilities. In fact, by 1950 they were producing over half of all outboard motors sold worldwide. However, it wasn’t until Mercury introduced its first V-8 engine in 1955 that they truly revolutionized the industry. The new V-8 engine was powerful yet compact enough to fit on smaller boats making it extremely popular among boaters at that time. Throughout the following decades,Mercury expanded into other marine products such as stern drives (inboard/outboards) and eventually boats. Their product line continued to grow as they acquired other companies such as Kiekhaefer Aeromarine, a manufacturer of high-performance racing engines. In the 1960s, Mercury Marine faced significant challenges when Japanese competitors entered the market with cheaper outboard motors. To combat this threat, Mercury invested heavily in research and development to create innovative technologies that set them apart from their competition. One such innovation was the introduction of electronic fuel injection (EFI) technology in the late 1980s. This revolutionary system improved engine performance while reducing emissions and has since become an industry standard. Today, Mercury Marine is a global leader in marine propulsion systems with manufacturing facilities all over the world. However, Moline remains an essential part of their history and operations. The company’s headquarters are still located there, along with one of its main production facilities. Mercury's presence in Moline has had a significant impact on the city’s economy over the years. The company employs thousands of people directly and indirectly through suppliers and contractors, providing stable jobs for many families in Moline. Furthermore,Mercury Marine has been actively involved in supporting various community initiatives within Moline. They have partnered with local organizations to support education programs focused on science, technology,and engineering – areas crucial to their business success. In addition to economic contributions, Mercury also holds cultural significance for Moline residents. Many boaters who grew up or currently live in this region have fond memories associated with Mercury products – whether it be fishing trips or family vacations spent on boats powered by Mercury engines. The legacy of Carl Kiekhaefer lives on through his company even after his passing in 1983.Mercury continues to innovate and improve upon its products while staying true to its core values established by its founder – quality craftsmanship, reliability,and customer satisfaction. In conclusion,the history of Mercury Marine's presenceinMoline is one filled with determination,resilience, and innovation. From its humble beginnings as a small outboard motor company to becoming a global leader in marine propulsion systems, Mercury Marine has left an indelible mark on the city of Moline and will continue to be an integral part of its future for years to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, engines, and parts for recreational, commercial, and government applications. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, the company has grown from a small garage operation to a global powerhouse in the boating industry. With over 80 years of experience and innovation, Mercury Marine continues to set the standard for high-performance marine engines and products. Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine operates production facilities across the United States as well as distribution centers around the world. The company employs over 7,000 people worldwide and prides itself on its strong commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. At its core, Mercury Marine's mission is to provide customers with reliable and efficient propulsion solutions that enhance their boating experience. This dedication to excellence has led to numerous awards throughout its history including multiple Innovation Awards from Boating Industry Magazine and being named one of America's most trustworthy companies by Forbes. One of Mercury Marine's key strengths is its extensive product line which includes outboard motors ranging from 2.5 horsepower all the way up to an impressive 600 horsepower engine - making it one of the largest ranges offered by any manufacturer in the industry. These engines are designed for use on everything from small fishing boats to luxury yachts and everything in between. In addition to outboard motors, Mercury also offers sterndrive engines (inboard/outboards), diesel engines for commercial vessels as well as propulsion systems specifically designed for government agencies such as law enforcement or military applications. This diverse range allows them to cater not only towards recreational boaters but also professional users who require top-notch performance under demanding conditions. What sets Mercury Marine apart from other manufacturers is their commitment to constant innovation through research & development efforts. In fact, they have invested millions into advanced engineering facilities where they design new technologies that improve engine performance while reducing emissions. One example of this innovative mindset is their Mercury Racing division, which focuses on high-performance engines for racing and speed boating. These engines are the result of years of research and development, including state-of-the-art testing in advanced dynamometer cells. This commitment to pushing boundaries has resulted in record-breaking performances on the water and a loyal following among performance enthusiasts. Another key aspect that sets Mercury Marine apart is its dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company takes great pride in its "Clean Technology" initiative, which aims to reduce emissions from their products while also working towards more sustainable manufacturing processes. In 2018, they were recognized by the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council for their efforts towards sustainability. In addition to their commitment to innovation and sustainability, Mercury Marine also has a strong focus on customer service. They have an extensive network of authorized dealers worldwide who provide top-notch sales support as well as maintenance services for all Mercury products. Their online resources such as owner's manuals, instructional videos, and FAQs make it easy for customers to find answers or troubleshoot any issues they may encounter with their engine. Furthermore, through various sponsorships and partnerships with organizations like Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.) and National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), Mercury actively supports the boating community by promoting safety education programs and conservation initiatives. Despite facing challenges like fluctuating fuel prices and changing regulations within the marine industry over the years, Mercury Marine has continued to thrive thanks to its strong brand reputation built upon innovation, quality craftsmanship, environmental stewardship & excellent customer service. In conclusion, Mercury Marine is a true leader in the marine industry – constantly setting new standards for performance while remaining committed to sustainability & customer satisfaction. With over eight decades of experience under their belt combined with cutting-edge technology & forward-thinking strategies - there’s no doubt that this powerhouse will continue being at helm far into future!

Mercury Marine is a division of the Brunswick Corporation and is known as one of the leading manufacturers of marine propulsion systems in the world. The company has a long history in Moline, Illinois, where its roots can be traced back to 1939. In 1939, Carl Kiekhaefer founded Kiekhaefer Mercury in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. The company initially produced outboard motors for commercial fisherman and pleasure boaters. However, by the late 1940s, Kiekhaefer began looking to expand his business into manufacturing larger engines for boats. In order to do so, Kiekhaefer needed a more suitable location for production that was close to major waterways. He chose Moline due to its central location on the Mississippi River and its access to rail transportation. In addition, there was an abundance of skilled labor available from nearby John Deere factories. Kiekhaefer purchased an old building on River Drive in downtown Moline and began producing larger horsepower engines for boats under the brand name "Mercury." By 1951, demand had grown significantly and a new facility was built on Arsenal Island at Rock Island Arsenal near Moline. The move allowed Mercury Marine to expand their product line beyond just outboard motors into sterndrive units as well. This led to increased growth for the company as they became known for their high-quality products and reliable performance. Throughout the next few decades, Mercury Marine continued to grow and innovate in Moline. They introduced new technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems and four-stroke engines which helped solidify their position as a leader in marine propulsion systems. In 1968, Brunswick Corporation acquired Mercury Marine which further accelerated their growth with increased resources and global reach. As technology advanced even further over time, Mercury Marine expanded its product offerings with digital throttle controls and joystick piloting systems making boating easier than ever before. Today, Mercury Marine's presence in Moline remains strong with a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility that covers over 100 acres and employs over 1,000 people. The company continues to invest in new technologies and innovations while also maintaining their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. In addition to the economic impact on the city of Moline, Mercury Marine has also made significant contributions to the community through charitable donations and sponsorships. They have partnered with local organizations such as Junior Achievement and River Bend Foodbank to support education and fight hunger in the area. Overall, Mercury Marine's history in Moline is one of growth, innovation, and community involvement. Their presence has had a lasting impact on the city's economy and their products continue to be trusted by boaters around the world.

Moline, Illinois is a city located in Rock Island County in the western part of the state. It is situated along the banks of the Mississippi River and has a population of approximately 42,000 people. The city was founded in 1848 by David B. Sears, who named it after his hometown Moline, Michigan. Throughout its history, Moline has evolved into an industrial hub and has played a significant role in shaping not only the local economy but also that of the entire Midwest region. Today, it is home to several major manufacturing companies, including John Deere & Company and Case New Holland Industrial. One of Moline's most prominent industries is agriculture machinery manufacturing. John Deere & Company was founded in Moline in 1837 and quickly became one of the largest producers of agricultural equipment worldwide. The company's headquarters are still located in Moline today and provide employment opportunities for many residents. Another major industry that drives Moline's economy is transportation equipment manufacturing. Companies like CNH Industrial (formerly Case New Holland Industrial) have production facilities in the city which produce heavy-duty construction equipment such as tractors and excavators. In addition to its strong economic standing, Moline also boasts a rich cultural heritage with numerous landmarks and attractions scattered throughout the city that highlight its past achievements. One notable landmark is Black Hawk State Historic Site – home to Chief Black Hawk who led Native American tribes against US forces during what came to be known as "Black Hawk War" from 1832-1833. Another must-visit site for history buffs is Colonel Davenport House Museum - built-in 1833 by George Davenport who was instrumental during those times when settlers were making their way westward across America through Iowa territory up until he died at age seventy-two due to murder on July 4th weekend back then at his own house now turned into museum open daily except Mondays including holidays featuring exhibits relating to early settlers and their way of life. Moline also has a thriving arts scene with several museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing local talent. The Figge Art Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Moline, featuring a collection of American and European art spanning from the 15th century to present-day. The Quad City Arts Center is another notable venue for arts lovers, hosting various workshops, exhibitions, and performances throughout the year. Apart from its cultural offerings, Moline also has a strong sports presence. It is home to professional baseball team Quad Cities River Bandits as well as minor league hockey team Quad City Storm. The city's TaxSlayer Center hosts various sporting events and concerts throughout the year. The education system in Moline is highly regarded with numerous public schools offering quality education to students at all levels. In addition to traditional public schools, there are also private institutions such as Alleman Catholic High School that provide an alternative option for families seeking specialized education for their children. Moline takes pride in providing its residents with ample opportunities for recreation and outdoor activities. With over 30 parks spread across the city offering facilities such as playgrounds, walking trails, picnic areas, and more – there is something for everyone to enjoy outdoors in Moline. One of the most popular parks among locals is Riverside Park which features stunning views of Mississippi River along with amenities like fishing piers and boat ramps. In recent years, Moline has made significant investments in revitalizing its downtown area – known as "The District." This bustling hub offers shopping options ranging from big-name retailers to locally-owned boutiques along with numerous restaurants serving diverse cuisine choices including Mexican fare at Los Charros Restaurante Mexicano or Italian dishes at TGI Fridays or Chinese food served up fresh daily by China Cafe Buffet on Avenue Of America located off I-74 too plus others nearby worth checking out too while exploring this vibrant riverfront district. In conclusion, Moline, Illinois is a city that has stood the test of time and continues to thrive as an industrial powerhouse while also offering its residents a high quality of life. With its rich history, strong economy, vibrant culture, and ample opportunities for recreation and education – Moline truly has something for everyone. Its prime location along the Mississippi River adds to its charm and makes it a desirable place to live or visit in the Midwest region.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors, marine engines, and propulsion systems. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. What started as a small operation has now grown into a global enterprise with over 6,000 employees worldwide. The story of Mercury Marine begins with Carl Kiekhaefer's passion for engineering and his desire to create reliable and high-performance marine engines. In the early days, he worked on developing lightweight two-stroke outboard motors that would revolutionize the boating industry. His first successful design was the "Thor Outboard," which became popular among boat racers due to its speed and power. In 1940, Kiekhaefer officially launched his company under the name "Kiekhaefer Corporation." He had only a handful of employees and operated from an old barn in Cedarburg. However, through innovative designs and relentless determination, Mercury Marine quickly gained recognition for producing some of the best performing outboards in the market. During World War II, Mercury Marine shifted its focus towards producing generators for military use. This helped keep the company afloat during tough economic times while also providing valuable experience in large-scale production processes. After the war ended, Mercury returned to manufacturing outboard motors but faced stiff competition from established companies like Johnson Motors (now part of Bombardier Recreational Products). To stand out from their competitors, Mercury began offering extended warranties on their products – something unheard of at that time – which helped build trust with customers who were skeptical about trying new brands. In 1949, after experiencing rapid growth and success within just ten years since its inception; Kiekhaefer changed his company's name to "Mercury Marine" to better reflect its main product line. Throughout the '50s and '60s Mercurys’ reputation continued growing as they introduced bigger and more powerful engines. In 1957, they launched the Mark 75 – a 60 horsepower outboard motor that was twice as powerful as any other engine in its class. The '70s saw Mercury Marine expanding into new markets by introducing stern drives (inboard-outboard motors) to their product range. This helped them cater to a wider audience of boaters who preferred larger vessels or needed more power for commercial use. In the early '80s, Mercury Marine faced some challenges due to increased competition from Japanese manufacturers like Yamaha and Suzuki. However, they quickly responded with innovative designs such as the "Black Max" outboards with high thrust capabilities and electronic fuel injection systems that improved performance and fuel economy. During this time, Mercury also acquired several companies in Europe like Mariner Outboards (now under Brunswick Corporation). This expanded their global reach and made them one of the largest marine engine manufacturers worldwide. The company continued introducing advanced technologies in the following decades, including four-stroke engines, direct-injection technology, supercharged engines for high-performance boats, joystick piloting systems for easier boat handling, and many others. In recent years Mercury has also been actively involved in conservation efforts through initiatives like "Clean Air Act Standards." They have developed low-emission outboards that comply with strict environmental regulations while maintaining top-notch performance standards. Today, Mercury Marine is part of Brunswick Corporation's marine division along with other well-known brands like Sea Ray Boats and Boston Whaler. Their headquarters are now located in Fond du Lac Wisconsin where they operate multiple manufacturing facilities producing not just outboard motors but also sterndrives; including components such as propellers; controls; gauges; steering systems; generators etcetera Mercury continues to be an industry leader through constant innovation fueled by their passion for creating reliable products backed by excellent customer service. They have won numerous awards over the years for design excellence, environmental sustainability, and customer satisfaction. In conclusion, Mercury Marine has come a long way since its humble beginnings in a small barn in Wisconsin. With over 80 years of experience and expertise, the company has established itself as one of the most trusted names in the marine industry. Their commitment to innovation and quality has enabled them to stay relevant through changing times and maintain their position as a leader in the market. As boating technology continues to evolve, we can expect Mercury Marine to keep pushing boundaries and setting new standards for marine engines.

Mercury Marine is an American company that specializes in the production of marine propulsion systems. It was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, a young engineer with a passion for designing and building high-performance engines. The history of Mercury Marine began when Kiekhaefer purchased a bankrupt engine manufacturing company called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company located in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. He renamed it to "Kiekhaefer Corporation" and started producing outboard motors under the brand name "Mercury". The first motor produced by Mercury was the KD-1, which had six horsepower and could reach speeds up to 10 mph. In the early years, Mercury faced several challenges as they were competing against well-established companies such as Evinrude and Johnson Outboards. However, Kiekhaefer's determination and innovative designs helped Mercury gain recognition among boat enthusiasts. In 1940, just one year after its establishment, Mercury won its first race at Miami-Nassau Powerboat Race. During World War II, like many other companies at that time, Mercury switched its focus to supporting the war efforts by producing generators for military purposes. After the war ended, they resumed their production of outboard motors but also expanded into new markets such as boats for pleasure cruising and fishing. In 1957, Mercury introduced its iconic Mark 75 Super Thunderbolt model which became popular among speedboat racers due to its powerful performance. This marked a turning point for the company as it shifted its focus towards creating high-performance engines rather than just reliable ones. Over the years, Mercury continued to innovate and introduce new technologies in their products such as electronic fuel injection systems in their outboard motors which significantly improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. They also expanded their product line to include stern drives (inboard-outboard motors), diesel engines for commercial use and even jet-powered sport boats. In 1961, Carl Kiekhaefer sold the company to Brunswick Corporation, but Mercury retained its name and continued to operate independently. Under Brunswick's ownership, Mercury Marine grew rapidly and became a leader in the marine industry. Today, Mercury Marine is headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and has facilities all over the world. Their products are used not only for recreational boating but also for commercial and military purposes. They have won numerous awards for their innovative designs and commitment to environmental sustainability. In 2018, Mercury celebrated its 80th anniversary with a strong reputation as one of the top manufacturers of marine propulsion systems. The company continues to push boundaries with their cutting-edge technologies while staying true to their heritage of providing high-performance engines that deliver unmatched reliability on the water.

Moline, Illinois is a city located in Rock Island County in the northwestern part of the state. It sits along the banks of the Mississippi River and has a rich history that dates back to its early days as a bustling industrial town. The origin of Moline can be traced back to 1843 when David B. Sears established a sawmill on the west bank of the Mississippi River. This was followed by John Deere's creation of his famous steel plow in 1837, which brought about an influx of settlers and industry to this small settlement. By 1851, Moline was officially incorporated as a village and continued to grow rapidly with new industries such as flour mills, paper mills, and foundries being established. One significant event that shaped Moline's early history was its connection to one of America's most iconic landmarks – The Gateway Arch. In 1864, James Eads built iron bridges over the Mississippi River from Moline to Davenport, Iowa. These bridges were not only instrumental in connecting communities but also allowed for increased trade and commerce between states. In addition to its thriving industrial sector, Moline also became known for its educational institutions. Augustana College was founded in 1860 by Swedish Lutherans who had immigrated to America seeking religious freedom. The college has since become an integral part of Moline's identity and continues to attract students from all over the world. During World War I, Moline played a vital role in supplying materials for war efforts through companies like John Deere Plow Works which produced munitions for soldiers fighting overseas. With their contribution towards victory came economic prosperity for many residents who worked for these factories. However, it wasn't until after World War II that Moline truly experienced rapid growth and expansion thanks largely due to advancements made by John Deere & Company whose headquarters were based there since it started operating in 1912. The post-war years saw Moline's population and economy grow exponentially. The city became a hub for manufacturing, with John Deere leading the way in agricultural and construction equipment production. In 1969, Moline merged with neighboring communities of Rock Island and East Moline to form what is now known as the Quad Cities – a group of five cities along the Mississippi River that share a strong sense of community. The late 20th century also brought about changes in Moline's landscape as many historic buildings were demolished to make way for modern structures. However, efforts have been made to preserve some iconic landmarks such as the Deere & Company world headquarters building which was restored in 1997. Today, Moline continues to thrive as an important industrial center within the Quad Cities region. It is home to over 43,000 residents who enjoy a high quality of life thanks to its diverse economy, affordable cost of living, and excellent educational opportunities. In recent years, there has been renewed interest in preserving Moline's rich history through various initiatives by local organizations such as the Rock Island Preservation Society. This includes restoring historic buildings downtown and creating walking tours that highlight significant landmarks from the city's past. Moline may have started out as a small settlement on the banks of the Mississippi River but it has grown into a vibrant city with a unique blend of industry, culture, and community spirit. Its rich history serves as a reminder of how far this once small village has come since its humble beginnings over 175 years ago. As it continues to evolve and adapt with changing times while holding onto its roots – one thing remains certain: Moline will always be an integral part of American history for generations to come.

Moline, Illinois is a city located in Rock Island County, situated along the Mississippi River in the Quad Cities area. Moline has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s when it was inhabited by Native American tribes such as Sauk and Meskwaki. The name "Moline" originated from one of the early settlers, David B. Sears, who named his home after a town in Belgium where he had lived for some time before coming to America. The name translates to "mill town" or "city of mills," reflecting its early roots as an industrial center. In 1836, John Deere moved his steel plow manufacturing business from Grand Detour, Illinois to Moline. This move solidified Moline's role as an industrial hub and helped spur its growth into a major city. Today, John Deere's headquarters are still located in Moline and their impact on the city can be seen through various landmarks such as the iconic John Deere Pavilion. Throughout the mid-1800s, other industries began to spring up in Moline including flour mills, breweries, and ironworks factories. As more people flocked to work in these industries, the population grew rapidly and by 1865 it became incorporated as a village with approximately 1,600 residents. In 1873, German immigrant Frederick Weyerhaeuser established his lumber empire headquarters in Moline which further fueled its economic prosperity. By this time period,Molinewas known not only for its manufacturing but also for being home to many wealthy businessmen who built grand mansions along what is now known as Millionaire Row on Avenue of Cities. During World War I and II,Molinewas vitaltothe war effort due toits manufacturing capabilities.Thousands of workers were employed at companies like International Harvester Company (now Navistar) producing tractors and munitions for soldiers overseas.In addition,the Rock Island Arsenal, a major weapons manufacturing plant and military base, is also located in Moline. In the 20th century,Molinewent through several changes as it transitioned from an industrial-based economy to a more diversified one. The city experienced significant growth with the addition of new industries such as healthcare, technology, and tourism. Today,Molineis home to approximately 43,000 residents and continues to thrive as a commercial, cultural,and educational center in Illinois. It boasts numerous attractions including the John Deere Pavilion,museums such asthe John Deere World Headquarters Visitor Center and Rock Island Arsenal Museum,golf courses,and parks along the Mississippi Riverfront. Molinestrongly values its history and takes pride in preserving its heritage through various initiatives like historic preservation programs and community events that celebrate its past. The city also actively promotes economic development by offering incentives for businesses looking to establish themselves in Moline. In conclusion,the rich history of Moline,Illinois has shaped it into what it is today –a vibrant city with a diverse economy,filled with cultureand opportunities for both residentsand visitors alike.Its legacy as an industrial powerhouse coupled with its modern developments make it a unique destination in the Midwest.

Mercury Marine, a division of the Brunswick Corporation, has had a long and successful history in Moline, Illinois. The company was founded in 1939 by E. Carl Kiekhaefer with its headquarters located in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. However, it wasn't until 1985 that Mercury Marine opened its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Moline. The decision to open this facility came after several years of growth for Mercury Marine. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the company's outboard engine sales were booming and they needed more production space to meet demand. After considering various locations across the country, Moline was chosen as the ideal location due to its central location within the United States and access to major waterways like the Mississippi River. With an initial investment of $60 million dollars and plans for over one million square feet of production space on a 100-acre site along John Deere Road, construction began on what would become one of Mercury Marine's largest facilities. In August of 1986, just one year after groundbreaking began on construction, Mercury Marine celebrated their grand opening with then-Governor Jim Thompson cutting the ribbon at their new plant. This event marked not only an important milestone for Mercury Marine but also significant economic development for Moline and surrounding communities. The new facility brought hundreds of jobs to Moline during a time when many manufacturing companies were struggling or moving overseas. For nearly three decades now, thousands have called this plant home as employees work tirelessly building high-quality marine engines used all around the world. In addition to job creation and economic development opportunities provided by Mercury Marine's presence in Moline; they also give back through philanthropic efforts focused mainly on education initiatives including STEM (science technology engineering mathematics) programs aimed towards inspiring future generations to pursue careers in these fields. Over time there have been expansions made at this already massive plant including adding a foundry, additional office space, and even acquiring a nearby building previously owned by John Deere. This acquisition allowed Mercury Marine to expand its production capabilities even further. The Moline facility has been at the forefront of innovation for Mercury Marine with advancements in engineering and technology driving their success. In recent years, they have introduced new models of outboard engines that are more fuel-efficient while also meeting stricter emissions standards. These innovations have helped solidify Mercury Marine's position as an industry leader. In 2018, the plant underwent another significant expansion worth $10 million dollars to support increased demand for larger engines used on boats ranging from 75 to 400 horsepower. The addition included a new assembly line and advanced testing equipment to ensure top-of-the-line quality control. Mercury Marine's commitment to continuous improvement is evident not only through their investments in the Moline facility but also through their partnerships with local educational institutions such as Black Hawk College. They offer internships and apprenticeships for students interested in pursuing careers in manufacturing or engineering. Throughout its history in Moline, Mercury Marine has remained closely tied to the community through various initiatives such as sponsoring local events like Bassmaster fishing tournaments and supporting charities like United Way of Rock Island County. Today, over three decades since opening its doors in Moline, Mercury Marine remains one of the largest employers in the area with approximately 1,000 employees working at this location alone. Their impact on the city can be seen not only through job creation but also through ongoing efforts towards sustainability and community involvement. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's decision to open their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Moline has had a profound impact on both economic development and community engagement within this Illinois city. As they continue to grow and innovate within the marine industry, it is clear that they will remain an integral part of Moline's history for many years to come.

Mercury Marine is a global leader in the marine industry, known for its high-quality outboard engines and boat parts. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has grown from a small operation in Cedarburg, Wisconsin to an international company with over 6,000 employees worldwide. The company's success can be attributed to its innovative technology, commitment to customer satisfaction, and strong brand reputation. One of the key factors that sets Mercury Marine apart from its competitors is its focus on innovation. From the very beginning, founder Carl Kiekhaefer was committed to creating products that were more powerful and efficient than anything else on the market. This drive for continuous improvement has been ingrained in the company's culture since its inception. Innovation at Mercury Marine starts with research and development (R&D). The company invests heavily in R&D each year, constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new technologies. In fact, it has one of the largest R&D budgets among all marine engine manufacturers. This investment allows them to develop cutting-edge products such as their Verado outboard engine series which offers unrivaled performance and fuel efficiency. Another aspect of innovation at Mercury Marine is their use of advanced manufacturing processes. The company utilizes state-of-the-art techniques like computer-aided design (CAD) and computer numerical control (CNC) machining to ensure precision engineering for all their products. This not only results in better quality control but also allows for faster production times. Mercury Marine also prides itself on its commitment to customer satisfaction. They understand that boating enthusiasts rely on their engines for both leisurely activities like fishing or cruising as well as professional uses such as commercial fishing or rescue operations. Therefore, they strive to provide reliable products that meet customers' needs while also providing excellent service through their vast network of dealerships around the world. The company takes great care during every step of production - from sourcing the best materials to rigorous testing - to ensure that their products meet or exceed customer expectations. This dedication to quality is reflected in Mercury Marine's industry-leading warranty coverage, giving customers peace of mind when purchasing their engines. Mercury Marine has also built a strong brand reputation over the years. The company's name is synonymous with high-performance and reliable marine engines, making it one of the most trusted brands in the industry. Its outboard engines are preferred by professional fishermen, recreational boaters, and even military personnel due to their exceptional performance and durability. In addition to its core business of manufacturing outboard engines, Mercury Marine also offers a wide range of boat parts such as propellers, controls systems, steering systems, and more. These parts are designed specifically for use with Mercury outboard engines but can also be used on other boat brands. This allows customers to have all their boating needs met under one roof. Moreover, Mercury Marine has always been committed to sustainability through responsible production practices and environmental stewardship. They actively work towards reducing emissions from their factories and creating more fuel-efficient products that impact the environment less while still delivering top-notch performance. In recent years, Mercury Marine has expanded its global reach through strategic partnerships with leading boat manufacturers around the world like Sea Ray Boats and Boston Whaler. Their international presence now includes operations in countries such as Canada, Mexico, China, Brazil,and Australia. In conclusion,Mercury Marine's success can be attributed not only to its innovative technology but also its commitment to customer satisfaction and strong brand reputation. With over 80 years of experience in the marine industry,the company continues to lead the way with cutting-edge products that set new standards for performance,durability,and sustainability. As we look towards the future,it is clear that Mercury Marine will continue on this path of excellence.In fact,in 2019,the company announced plans for a $10 million expansion at its headquarters in Fond du Lac,Wisconsin.This investment will not only create more jobs in the area,but also allow for further advancements and innovations in their products. In addition,Mercury Marine has also been actively involved in promoting boating safety through its partnership with organizations like the National Safe Boating Council and its sponsorship of educational programs such as BoatUS Foundation's "Life Jacket Loaner Program". This commitment to safety reflects the company's values of responsible boating practices and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the water safely. Furthermore,as technology continues to advance,the marine industry is constantly evolving.Mercury Marine has embraced this change by investing in electric propulsion systems,with plans to launch an all-electric outboard engine by 2021.This move towards sustainable alternatives shows Mercury Marine's dedication to meeting customer needs while also reducing their environmental impact. In conclusion,it is evident that Mercury Marine is a company that not only produces high-quality products but also prioritizes innovation,customer satisfaction,and sustainability. With a rich history of excellence and a promising future ahead,Mercury Marine will continue to be at the forefront of the marine industry,making waves with each new development.