Suzuki Marine, a division of Suzuki Motor Corporation, has a long and storied history in Sterling, Illinois. The company has been a major player in the marine industry for over 50 years, providing high-quality outboard motors to boaters all over the world. From humble beginnings as an import business to becoming a leading manufacturer of marine engines, Suzuki Marine's journey in Sterling is one of perseverance and innovation. The origins of Suzuki Marine can be traced back to 1965 when founder Shunzo Suzuki established Kiekhaefer Mercury Japan Ltd., an import company that brought American-made outboard motors into Japan. At the time, there was no domestic production of outboard motors in Japan, so Shunzo saw an opportunity to fill this gap in the market. In 1977, Kiekhaefer Mercury Japan changed its name to Outboard Marine Manufacturing Co., Ltd (OMMC) and began producing their own line of outboard motors under the brand name "Suzuki." This marked the beginning of Suzuki's foray into manufacturing marine engines. In 1980, OMMC merged with another Japanese company called Tohatsu Corporation and became known as Outboards Limited Company (OLC). This partnership allowed OLC to expand its production capabilities and increase its market share globally. However, it wasn't until 1983 that OLC opened its first overseas plant in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana – marking their entry into the North American market. By this time, OLC had become renowned for its innovative technology such as power trim & tilt systems and oil injection systems – making them stand out from competitors like Yamaha and Evinrude. In recognition of these achievements, OLC was renamed "Suzuki Motor Corporation" in 1990. As demand for their products continued to grow worldwide throughout the '90s and early 2000s; it became apparent that Suzuki needed to expand its production capacity. In 2002, the company invested $100 million in a new manufacturing plant in Thailand – which would become the largest outboard motor factory in the world at that time. However, with an already established North American market and increasing demand for their products, Suzuki Marine saw potential for further expansion. In 2013, they announced plans to build a new state-of-the-art facility in Sterling, Illinois – investing another $100 million into this project. The decision to build this new plant was strategic as it positioned Suzuki closer to their target market and allowed them to be more responsive to customer needs. The 500-acre facility features cutting-edge technology and advanced manufacturing processes that enable efficient production of up to 60,000 units per year. Suzuki's presence in Sterling has had a significant impact on the local economy. The company employs over 1,000 people from the surrounding area; many of whom have been with Suzuki since its early days in Breaux Bridge. This has created stability and job opportunities for families living in Sterling – contributing greatly to the community's economic growth. In addition to providing employment opportunities, Suzuki also takes great pride in being environmentally responsible. Their commitment towards sustainability is evident through their ISO certifications for environmental management systems and continuous efforts towards reducing waste emissions during production processes. Today, Suzuki Marine continues to be a leader in innovation within the marine industry by constantly improving upon existing technologies while also developing new ones. One example is their development of Lean Burn Control Technology – an intelligent fuel-saving system that adjusts engine operation based on boat speed and load conditions. With over fifty years of experience under its belt - starting as an import business before becoming one of Japan's leading manufacturers - there is no doubt that Suzuki Marine has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Its journey from Kiekhaefer Mercury Japan Ltd., all those years ago until today when it stands as a top manufacturer of outboard motors, is a testament to the company's perseverance and determination. And with its state-of-the-art facility in Sterling, Illinois, Suzuki Marine is well-positioned for continued success and growth in the years to come.

Suzuki Marine is a renowned Japanese company that specializes in manufacturing high-quality outboard motors for boats and other marine vessels. Founded in 1920 by Michio Suzuki, the company has over 100 years of experience in the marine industry and has established itself as one of the leading brands in this sector. The History of Suzuki Marine: Suzuki started its journey as a loom manufacturer back in 1909 but quickly diversified into different areas such as cars, motorcycles, and even powerboats. In 1920, they began producing their first outboard motor – the D-36 - which was powered by a two-stroke engine with an output of just six horsepower. This marked the beginning of Suzuki's venture into marine engines. Innovation and technological advancements have always been at the core of Suzuki’s philosophy. In 1965, they launched their first four-stroke outboard motor –the DF60– which was considered revolutionary at that time due to its fuel efficiency and low emissions. It paved the way for future developments and solidified Suzuki’s position as a pioneer in four-stroke technology. Over the years, Suzuki has continued to push boundaries with their innovative designs and cutting-edge technologies. In 1986, they introduced electronic fuel injection (EFI) to their outboard motors - another industry-first at that time. The introduction of EFI led to improved performance, better fuel economy, and reduced emissions. In recent years, environmental concerns have become more prevalent than ever before. To address these concerns while continuing to provide high-performance engines for boaters worldwide, Suzuki developed Lean Burn Control Technology for their outboards. This technology optimizes fuel consumption by adjusting air-fuel mixture depending on boat speed conditions resulting in lesser carbon emissions without compromising on power or torque. Products Offered: Today,Suzuki offers a wide range of products including portable (2-20HP), mid-range (25-100HP), high-performance (115-350HP), and commercial outboard motors. Each category is designed to cater to specific needs and applications, ensuring that every customer can find the perfect motor for their boat. Their portable motors are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for small boats, inflatables, or as a secondary engine on larger vessels. The mid-range engines offer a balance of power and fuel efficiency suitable for recreational boating while the high-performance motors are built to deliver unparalleled speed and torque required by serious anglers or thrill-seekers. Suzuki also offers the largest range of commercial outboards in the industry – from 40-350 horsepower – specifically designed for heavy-duty use such as fishing charters, water taxis, or search-and-rescue operations. These engines are known for their reliability and durability even under extreme conditions. Apart from outboard motors,Suzuki Marine also offers a variety of genuine parts & accessories to enhance performance or customize your boat according to your preferences. From propellers to gauges, control boxes to rigging kits– Suzuki has got you covered with quality products that complement their engines perfectly. Commitment To Quality: Quality is at the core of everything Suzuki does. They have established strict quality control measures at each stage of production -from design through manufacturing- which ensures that every product meets their highest standards before leaving the factory floor. Suzuki’s commitment towards producing superior-quality products has been recognized globally with numerous awards including "Boating Industry's Top Product Award" in 2013 for their DF300AP four-stroke V6 outboard motor.Similarly,in 2020 they received "Popular Mechanics Editor's Choice Award"for their DF140BG Lightest-in-Class Outboard Motor,and“Innovative Product Award”by Boating Industry Magazinein 2021fortheir new multi-function display gauge,the SMG4 Multi-function Gauge System.These awards serve as a testament to Suzuki’s dedication towards engineering products that deliver performance, reliability and value. Environmental Stewardship: Suzuki has been actively taking steps to reduce their environmental footprint. They have invested in eco-friendly manufacturing facilities, implemented recycling programs, and are working towards reducing CO2 emissions from their engines. In 2013,Suzuki became the first outboard motor manufacturer to receive certification for “Clean Production” from Japan's Ministry of Economy. They have also partnered with organizations such as Ocean Conservancy and The Waterkeeper Alliance for marine conservation efforts. Suzuki’s involvement in these initiatives showcases their commitment towards preserving our oceans for future generations. Customer Support: Suzuki’s customer support is second to none. With over 1,000 authorized dealers worldwide, they offer comprehensive after-sales service ensuring customers can get assistance whenever needed. Their dealers are trained by Suzuki experts who possess an in-depth knowledge of the products and can provide accurate solutions quickly. In addition,Suzuki Marine offers a three-year limited warranty on all new outboard motors which is extendable up-to six years–the longest warranty period offered by any major outboard manufacturer –ensuring peace of mind for its customers. Conclusion: Suzuki Marine has come a long way since its inception over 100 years ago but one thing remains constant -their passion for innovation and commitment to delivering quality products.Suzukiservesas a pioneerin advancing four-stroke technologyandhas revolutionizedthe industrywith cutting-edge featureswhile prioritizing environmental stewardship.This Japanese company continues to lead the way in providing reliable high-performance engines while building strong relationships with boaters around the world through efficient customer support.Its legacy will undoubtedly continue into the future as it strives towards creating more innovative solutions tailored specifically for boating enthusiasts everywhere.

Suzuki Motor Corporation is a Japanese multinational corporation that specializes in manufacturing automobiles, four-wheel drive vehicles, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), outboard marine engines, and small combustion-powered engine products. The company was founded in 1909 by Michio Suzuki as the Suzuki Loom Works in the small coastal village of Hamamatsu, Japan. In 1954, after successfully producing and selling its first motorcycle model - Diamond Free - Suzuki expanded its business into the United States market. In order to establish a presence in America and meet increasing demand for their products, Suzuki formed a partnership with Cushman Motors of Lincoln Nebraska to produce scooters under the name "Cushman-Suzuki." However, this partnership only lasted two years before ending due to disagreements between the companies. In 1963, Suzuki established American Suzuki Motor Corp. (ASMC) as its sole distributor for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in North America. ASMC quickly grew and became one of the top-selling motorcycle brands in America during the late 1960s through partnerships with other companies such as Hodaka Motorcycles. In addition to expanding its motorcycle market share in North America during this time period, Suzuki also began producing outboard motors for marine use. In 1977 they introduced their first outboard motor - DT5 - which featured five horsepower output and set new standards for fuel efficiency at that time. This marked the beginning of what would become an integral part of Sterling's history: the production of high-performance outboard motors by American workers at their manufacturing plant. By 1998, ASMC had achieved significant success with both its automotive division (which launched popular models such as Swift GTi Hatchback) and powersports division (with highly sought-after ATVs like King Quad). As a result of these successes and growing demand for their marine products globally; ASMC decided it needed additional manufacturing capacity in the United States. After considering several locations, ASMC chose Sterling, Illinois as the site for its new Suzuki Marine facility. In 1999, construction began on a state-of-the-art production plant that would specialize in producing high-performance outboard motors for recreational and commercial use. The first engine rolled off the assembly line at the Sterling facility in November of 2000; and by January of 2001, ASMC announced their plans to increase global production levels from an initial goal of 10,000 units per year to a projected output of over 50,000 units annually. This expansion helped solidify Suzuki's position as one of the leading outboard motor manufacturers in North America. Over the years, Suzuki has continued to innovate and expand its marine product line with advancements such as four-stroke technology and lean-burn fuel efficiency. In addition to developing cutting-edge products and expanding its market share globally; Suzuki continues to prioritize sustainability practices through initiatives like their "Blue Sky" environmental program which aims to reduce carbon emissions throughout all aspects of their business operations. Today, Suzuki Marine remains committed to providing top-quality products that meet customer needs while also being environmentally responsible. With over a century-long history of innovation and success both domestically and abroad; it is clear that American workers have played an integral role in helping make this company what it is today - a leader in marine technology with a strong presence in Sterling, Illinois.

Sterling, Illinois is a small city located in Whiteside County, in the northwestern region of the state. It sits along the banks of the Rock River and has a population of approximately 15,000 people. While it may not be as well-known as some larger cities in Illinois, Sterling has a rich history and vibrant community that makes it a hidden gem worth exploring. The land on which Sterling now stands was once home to Native American tribes such as the Sauk and Fox nations. In 1834, brothers Hezekiah and Isaiah Stillman established a ferry service across the Rock River here and began to develop what would become known as "Stillman's Landing." The town grew slowly but steadily over the next few decades with an influx of settlers from New England attracted by its fertile farmland. In 1857, Sterling officially became incorporated as a city, named after General Richard Sterling who had served during the Black Hawk War. The railroad arrived soon after and brought new industries like milling and manufacturing to further boost economic growth. By the late 19th century, Sterling was booming with businesses such as wire factories, grain elevators, lumberyards, and even cigar-making facilities. One notable event in Sterling's history occurred on July 22nd of 1896 when temperatures reached record highs for several consecutive days causing widespread drought conditions throughout northern Illinois. This event came to be known as "The Heat Wave" or "The Killer Heat Wave." With no air conditioning at that time period many residents slept outside trying to find relief from heat exhaustion while farmers struggled with their crops dying off due to extreme heat. Today though small in size compared to other major cities within Illinois; Sterling remains an important hub for agriculture production thanks to its prime location along both waterways (Rock & Mississippi Rivers). Its economy also includes manufacturing companies such as Wahl Clipper Corporation – one of America's oldest manufacturers -and CGH Medical Center - a 99-bed hospital providing healthcare services to the community. Sterling is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Rock River Trail, which offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking along its scenic route. The city hosts many events throughout the year such as an annual Fourth of July celebration, Sterling Main Street's "Tunes on Tuesday" summer concert series, and various festivals celebrating local culture and history. In recent years, Sterling has made efforts to revitalize its downtown area with beautification projects and renovations to historic buildings. This has resulted in a resurgence of small businesses such as boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants that have brought new energy to the heart of the city. One notable aspect of Sterling's community is its strong sense of volunteerism. Residents come together through organizations like United Way or Rotary Club to give back through various projects that benefit those in need within their own neighborhoods. For example; every year during Christmas time volunteers from all walks come together at CGH Medical Center putting up hundreds (if not thousands) of lights/decorations around campus making it someplace special for patients who may be going through difficult times health wise during holiday season. The education system in Sterling is also highly regarded with well-ranked schools at both elementary and high school levels. Additionally, Sauk Valley Community College provides higher education opportunities for students looking to further their studies without leaving town. In terms of transportation options; Sterling is conveniently located near major highways such as I-88 and I-80 making travel easy for residents commuting or visiting nearby cities like Chicago or Davenport (Iowa). It also has an Amtrak station connecting it directly to other major cities across the country. Overall, what makes Sterling stand out is its tight-knit community feel where neighbors know each other by name and work together towards common goals. Its rich history combined with continual growth make it an ideal place for families, young professionals, and retirees to call home. Whether you're looking for a peaceful riverfront retreat or an active and engaged community, Sterling has something to offer for everyone.

Suzuki Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors and boat accessories, known for its innovative technology, reliability, and performance. The company has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s when it was founded in Japan by Michio Suzuki. The Early Years: Michio Suzuki was born in Hamamatsu, Japan, on February 10th, 1887. He grew up watching his father work as a loom maker and developed an interest in machinery from an early age. After completing his education at the Nagoya Technical College, Michio began working for a silk manufacturing company in Tokyo. In 1909, at the age of 22, he returned to his hometown of Hamamatsu to start his own business. Initially focusing on producing weaving machines for the silk industry like his father's company, Michio soon expanded into making other types of machinery such as cars and motorcycles. The Birth of Suzuki Marine: In the late 1930s, after establishing himself as a successful industrialist in various industries including cotton mills and motor vehicles production; Michio decided to venture into marine engines due to increasing demand from fishermen along with government support for developing this sector. It was not until World War II that Suzuki began mass-producing small boats with outboard engines attached. These boats were primarily used by Japanese soldiers during the war but also became popular among civilians post-war. Innovation & Expansion: After the war ended in 1945, there was less demand for military equipment and more focus on rebuilding Japan's economy. This led Suzuki to shift its attention towards consumer products such as motorcycles and motorized bicycles. However,the potential of their marine division could not be ignored,and they continued improving their outboard motors' design,opting for lightweight aluminum instead of cast iron.This innovation gave them an edge over competitors who still used heavier materials,resulting in faster speeds,fuel efficiency,and better handling.Suzuki's outboard motors gained popularity not only in Japan but also overseas,with exports to the United States beginning in 1965. In the late 1960s and early 1970s,Suzuki Marine started expanding its product line by introducing four-stroke engines as well as larger horsepower options. This move solidified their position as a top player in the marine industry. Partnerships & Acquisitions: In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Suzuki Marine formed partnerships with other companies such as General Motors and Isuzu Motors to further enhance their technology and production capabilities. They also acquired several companies specializing in boat manufacturing, electronics, and propellers; enabling them to offer a complete package of products for boaters. In addition, Suzuki entered into joint ventures with other international brands such as Yamaha for research and development purposes. Continued Success: Suzuki Marine continued to innovate and expand its product range throughout the years. They introduced digital fuel injection systems in their outboard motors in the mid-2000s, further improving performance while reducing emissions. The company also collaborated with major boat manufacturers like Grady-White Boats to provide exclusive engines for their boats. Today,Suzuki is one of the largest suppliers of outboard motors globally with a presence in over 100 countries.They have won numerous awards for innovation,reliability,and customer satisfaction.Sales continue to increase year after year,and they have established themselves as leaders in four-stroke technology,reinforcing their commitment towards environmental sustainability. Future Outlook: As we move towards more sustainable practices globally,Suzuki has taken steps towards promoting eco-friendly boating through initiatives like "Clean Ocean Project" aimed at reducing water pollution caused by recreational boating activities.The company has invested heavily in developing electric propulsion systems,paving way for an emission-free future on waterways. Additionally,the demand for smaller,sleeker boats is growing among millennials, and Suzuki has responded by introducing a new line of compact outboard motors to cater to this market. Conclusion: Suzuki Marine's journey from its humble beginnings as a loom maker's son to becoming one of the world's leading marine manufacturers is nothing short of remarkable. Through continuous innovation,collaborations,and acquisitions,the company has evolved and adapted to changing market trends while maintaining its core values of quality,reliability,and technological advancement. With over a century in the industry,Suzuki Marine has proven itself as a pioneer in four-stroke technology and continues to push boundaries with eco-friendly solutions. We can only expect further growth and success for this iconic brand in the years ahead.

Suzuki Marine is a division of the Japanese company Suzuki Motor Corporation, which was founded in 1909 by Michio Suzuki. Initially, the company produced weaving looms for Japan's booming silk industry. However, after World War II, when demand for silk declined, Suzuki turned its focus to manufacturing small cars and motorcycles. In 1965, Suzuki expanded its product line to include outboard motors with the introduction of their first model - the D55. This motor featured an air-cooled two-stroke engine and quickly gained popularity among boaters due to its compact size and reliability. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Suzuki continued to innovate and improve upon their outboard motor designs. In 1977, they introduced one of their most popular models – the DT85 – which had a reputation for being powerful yet fuel-efficient. In 1981, Suzuki became one of the first companies to use electronic fuel injection (EFI) technology in outboard motors with their DF60 model. This innovation greatly improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional carbureted engines. As environmental concerns grew in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Suzuki once again led the way in technological advancements by introducing four-stroke outboard motors that were more eco-friendly than two-stroke models. These new engines also offered better performance and lower operating costs for boat owners. In recent years, Suzuki has continued to push boundaries with new technologies such as lean burn control system (LBC) that optimizes fuel consumption at cruising speeds and selective rotation technology (SRT) that allows twin-engine boats to operate on counter-rotating propellers without needing a complex transmission setup. Today,Suzuki Marine is known worldwide for producing high-quality outboard motors ranging from portable lightweight options up to V6 models capable of powering larger boats. Their commitment to innovation has made them a top choice among boaters and their motors are used in a variety of recreational, commercial, and military applications. In addition to outboard motors, Suzuki Marine also produces boat accessories such as propellers and control boxes, as well as marine engines for other industries including the aquaculture and watercraft markets. With over 50 years of experience in the marine industry, Suzuki Marine has established a strong reputation for reliability, performance, and environmental responsibility. They continue to lead the way in outboard motor technology and are dedicated to providing customers with products that enhance their boating experience.

Sterling, Illinois is a small city located in the northwestern part of the state. With a population of just over 15,000 people, it may not seem like much at first glance. However, this unassuming town has a rich history that spans from its early beginnings as a small settlement on the banks of the Rock River to its present-day status as an important economic and cultural hub. The story of Sterling begins with Native American tribes such as the Sauk and Fox who inhabited the land for centuries before European settlers arrived. In 1834, brothers Hezekiah and Isaiah Stoddard became some of Sterling’s earliest settlers when they established a trading post along the river. The area soon attracted more pioneers looking for fertile land and opportunities for trade. In 1839, Sterling was officially founded by two New York businessmen named Worthy Streator and Major James Campbell. They saw potential in this location due to its proximity to waterways which were crucial for transportation during that time period. The town was named after Captain William Sterling who served in the Black Hawk War. During its early years, farming was the main industry in Sterling with corn being one of their top crops. As more people settled in the area and infrastructure improved, other industries began to emerge including milling and manufacturing. One notable company that helped put Sterling on the map was Northwestern Steel & Wire Co., which produced steel products like fencing wire, nails, barbed wire fence posts among others. With these new industries came an influx of immigrants from various parts of Europe seeking work opportunities in factories or starting their own businesses within downtown’s bustling commercial district. German immigrants made up a large portion of this group and left behind lasting contributions such as their love for beer brewing which can still be seen today through local breweries like Pig Minds Brewing Company. As decades passed by, Sterling continued to grow both economically and culturally thanks to events such as construction projects like railroads and the 1908 opening of the Sterling Steel Ball Company. The community also embraced various forms of entertainment such as street fairs, parades, and live music which brought people together and created a sense of unity. However, like many towns across America in the early 20th century, Sterling faced its fair share of challenges including major floods that devastated the area in 1913 and again in 1993. Despite these setbacks, Sterling’s resilient spirit prevailed with reconstruction efforts leading to new developments such as Sinnissippi Park which offers scenic views of Rock River along with recreational activities for families. Throughout the years, Sterling has also been home to several notable figures including actress Ginger Rogers who was born here in 1911. Other famous residents include former Chicago Bears football player Jim Dooley and Pulitzer Prize-winning author William Maxwell. Today, Sterling is a thriving city with a diverse population that continues to grow thanks to its strong business climate. Agriculture remains an important part of its economy but it has expanded into other industries such as healthcare, education services,and advanced manufacturing. Downtown still serves as a hub for local businesses while newer developments on the outskirts offer modern amenities for residents. In terms of culture and recreation, Sterling has plenty to offer with annual events like Fiesta Days celebrating Hispanic heritage through food and music along with outdoor activities like boating or fishing at nearby Rock Falls’ Rotary Park. For those interested in history, there are museums like The Dillon Home Museum showcasing Victorian architecture from one of Sterling’s prominent families during their heyday. In conclusion, from humble beginnings as a small trading post on the banks of Rock River to becoming one of Northwestern Illinois’ most vibrant cities today;Sterling's journey has been marked by resilience,determination,and innovation. Its rich history tells us how this once small town has evolved over time into what it is now -a welcoming community filled with opportunities for both residentsand visitors alike.

Sterling, Illinois is a city located in Whiteside County in northwestern Illinois. It was founded in 1834 by Hezekiah Brink and James Lawrence as an agricultural community along the Rock River. The town was originally named Harrisburg after its first settler, but it was later renamed Sterling after General John Sterling, a prominent lawyer and politician who helped establish the county. In the mid-1800s, Sterling became an important stop on the Galena-Chicago stagecoach route, which brought travelers and settlers to the area. The construction of railroads also contributed to the growth of Sterling as a hub for transportation and commerce. During this time, many industries were established in Sterling including flour mills, sawmills, carriage factories, foundries and woolen mills. This led to significant economic growth for the city and attracted more people to settle there. In 1857, a disastrous fire destroyed much of downtown Sterling but it was quickly rebuilt with brick buildings that still stand today. In 1875, residents voted to incorporate as a city. Sterling played an important role during World War II as home to Camp Grant Army Base where soldiers were trained before being deployed overseas. After the war ended, many returning soldiers settled in Sterling which further boosted its population and economy. Throughout its history, agriculture has remained a vital part of life in Sterling with corn fields surrounding the city providing income for farmers. However,during recent years,the focus has shifted towards manufacturing with major companies such as Wahl Clipper Corporation (founded in 1919) choosing to locate their headquarters there. Today,Sterling continues to grow with new developments such as Northland Mall attracting businesses and visitors alike.In addition,the city hosts various events throughout the year such as summer concerts,farmers markets,and holiday celebrations that bring together members of the community. Overall,Sterling's rich history is evident through its well-preserved architecture,museums,and landmarks that tell the story of its past. The city has overcome challenges and embraced change,while still maintaining a strong sense of community and preserving its small-town charm.

Suzuki Marine has a long and rich history in Sterling, Illinois. The company started as an idea of Mr. Michio Suzuki, who founded the Suzuki Loom Works in 1909 in Hamamatsu, Japan. The initial focus of the company was on producing weaving looms for the silk industry. In 1937, after years of success with their loom business, Suzuki decided to diversify and entered into the automotive industry by producing small car engines. This proved to be a successful move and by 1954, they had become one of the leading manufacturers of motorcycles in Japan. It wasn't until 1965 that Suzuki ventured into marine products with their first outboard motor - the D55 - which was designed for use in small fishing boats. Shortly after its release, it gained popularity among fishermen due to its reliability and fuel efficiency. With this initial success under their belt, Suzuki continued to develop new technologies and expand their product line over the next few decades. In 1980, they introduced their first four-stroke outboard motor - DF60 - which revolutionized the industry with its advanced technology and low emissions. The year 1996 marked another milestone for Suzuki Marine with the establishment of a manufacturing plant in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana – making them one of only two major Japanese marine engine manufacturers to have production facilities outside Japan. As sales continued to grow globally throughout the late '90s and early 2000s, Sterling became an essential hub for distribution due to its central location within North America's industrial heartland. In response to this demand from North American dealerships came plans for establishing a state-of-the-art warehouse facility at Lee Industrial Blvd., Sterling IL – which opened its doors on July 1st ,2002 during Independence Day weekend celebrations! This warehouse facility is capable of storing more than $3 million worth of inventory at any given time; providing customers across the country with quick and efficient access to Suzuki's top-of-the-line marine products. In addition to its role as a distribution hub, the Sterling facility also serves as a training center for dealerships and technicians, ensuring that Suzuki Marine's high standards of service are maintained. In 2004, Suzuki Marine further solidified its presence in Sterling by establishing an R&D (Research & Development) facility at their warehouse site – making it one of only two such facilities outside Japan. This move was significant not only because it represented an investment in local talent but also because it allowed for quicker product development tailored specifically to North American boaters' needs. Over the years, Suzuki has continued to innovate and expand their product line - introducing new technologies such as lean burn fuel systems and digital control technology. These advancements have made outboard motors more efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly than ever before. In recent years, the demand for outboard motors has increased significantly due to growing interest in recreational boating across North America. In response to this demand, Suzuki opened another state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Indonesia in 2013 – increasing production capacity while maintaining strict quality control measures. Today, Suzuki Marine remains a leader in the industry with its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. The company continues to invest in research and development while expanding globally - providing cutting-edge products that cater specifically to regional market demands. The history of Suzuki Marine in Sterling is a testament not only to the company's success but also its dedication towards serving customers worldwide. With over five decades of experience under their belt, they continue on their mission of creating powerful yet eco-friendly marine engines that ensure every adventure on water is smooth sailing!

Suzuki Marine is a global leader in the marine industry, known for its high-quality outboard motors and other boating products. With over 100 years of experience in manufacturing engines, Suzuki Marine has established itself as a trusted brand among boaters worldwide. History: The story of Suzuki’s involvement in the marine industry began with founder Michio Suzuki’s passion for machinery and engineering. In 1920, at the age of 22, he founded his own company called “Suzuki Loom Works,” which manufactured weaving looms for Japan's booming silk industry. However, after World War II ended, demand for silk declined sharply and forced Michio to diversify his business. He recognized that there was a growing need for affordable modes of transportation in post-war Japan and decided to shift focus towards producing motorized vehicles. In 1952, Suzuki introduced its first motorcycle – Power Free – which revolutionized personal transport in Japan with its affordable price tag. This success led to further expansion into new product lines such as automobiles, ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), marine engines and more. Development of Outboard Motors: In the late 1960s, Suzuki set its sights on developing an outboard motor specifically designed for small boats. They saw this as an opportunity to tap into a market that was largely underserved by traditional manufacturers who focused on larger vessels. After several prototypes were tested on Lake Biwa - Japan's largest freshwater lake - Suzuki unveiled their first production outboard motor; D55 (5HP) model in 1965. The lightweight design coupled with fuel efficiency quickly made it popular among fishermen and recreational boaters alike. Since then, Suzuki has continued to innovate and develop cutting-edge technologies that have propelled them to become one of the top players in the global marine industry. Their dedication towards research & development has resulted in numerous patents being granted over the years including electronic fuel injection systems (EFI), lean burn control technology and more. Product Line: Suzuki Marine offers a comprehensive range of outboard motors starting from 2.5 horsepower all the way up to 350 horsepower, catering to recreational boaters, commercial fishermen, and professional athletes. They also offer a wide selection of options such as manual or electric start, different shaft lengths for various types of boats, and different gear ratios for optimal performance. Their four-stroke engine lineup boasts features such as fuel efficiency (up to 30% less fuel consumption compared to two-stroke engines), low emission levels that meet global environmental regulations, quiet operation due to advanced sound-reducing technology and more. Additionally, Suzuki has integrated their own Lean Burn Control System into their larger models which can improve fuel efficiency by up to an impressive 45%. In addition to outboard motors, Suzuki Marine also offers a variety of accessories such as propellers in different sizes and materials depending on the boat’s size and usage requirements; rigging kits with everything needed for installation; gauges that display information about engine performance; controls ranging from simple push-to-open throttle controls to electronic remote steering systems; maintenance products like oil filters & lubricants tailored specifically for their engines. Customer Satisfaction: One of the key factors behind Suzuki's success in the marine industry is their unwavering commitment towards customer satisfaction. Their emphasis on quality control has resulted in numerous awards over the years including JD Power Asia Pacific Awards for Highest Customer Satisfaction Index among both four-stroke & two-stroke outboard motor manufacturers in Japan. Another testament to this commitment is their extended warranty program - "Gimme Six" - which provides customers with six years of factory-backed limited coverage when they purchase any new Suzuki outboard motor. This gives buyers peace of mind knowing they are investing in a reliable product backed by a trusted brand. Global Presence: With its headquarters located in Hamamatsu – Japan's motorcycle capital - Suzuki Marine has expanded its presence to over 100 countries worldwide. Their global network of distributors and dealerships ensures that customers have easy access to their products and services. Suzuki's strong international presence is evident in its sponsorship deals with various prestigious boating events such as the Bassmaster Elite Series, FLW (Fishing League Worldwide) Tour, the Miami International Boat Show and more. These partnerships allow Suzuki to showcase their latest technologies while also engaging with the boating community on a personal level. Environmental Initiatives: As a responsible corporate citizen, Suzuki takes environmental conservation seriously. They continuously strive to reduce emissions from their engines by developing new technologies that meet or exceed strict global regulations like California Air Resources Board (CARB), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards in the United States and European Union’s Recreational Craft Directive (RCD). Moreover, they have implemented eco-friendly practices at their manufacturing facilities such as utilizing solar power for energy needs, reducing waste through recycling programs and implementing sustainable water management systems. Conclusion: In conclusion, it's clear that Suzuki Marine has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a manufacturer of weaving looms. With constant innovation backed by years of experience in engineering excellence and commitment towards customer satisfaction & environmental conservation; it’s no wonder why Suzuki remains one of the most trusted brands in the marine industry today. Their passion for delivering reliable products coupled with an extensive product line catering to different needs makes them stand out among competitors. As they continue to expand globally while keeping up with evolving technology trends; there is no doubt that Suzuki Marine will remain a prominent player in the marine industry for many decades to come.