Apr 28, 2020

Suzuki Motor of America, Inc., has announced plans for its future Suzuki Marine Technical Center USA, scheduled to be built on a 20-acre waterfront property in Panama City, Florida.  While the official launch date for this project is still unknown, Suzuki is currently finishing renovations on existing building sites on the property.

“As a mobility company, Suzuki is about empowering people to enjoy the Great Outdoors and travel freely by land and sea,” said Max Yamamoto, President Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.  “We are planning a state-of-the-art Suzuki Marine Technical Center that will help us to develop, test and refine the best possible Suzuki outboard products for today and tomorrow.   Our goal is to improve people’s lives on the water, and ensure everyday mobility for as many people as possible,” added Yamamoto.

Suzuki plans to work in collaboration with U.S.-based boat and accessory manufacturers to develop and improve its products (currently outboard motors from 2.5 to 350 horsepower) using the resources this unique location provides – a launch ramp, a large basin area for running and testing boats/motors, and a protected harbor.

The location was previously used for Marine Transportation’s Logistical Headquarters (MT) and a Florida State University Research Facility. Suzuki was able to find and acquire this ideal location with the help of various state, county, and city officials who, like Suzuki, were able to see past damages left behind by Hurricane Michael in 2018 to envision what this unique property could someday become.

Suzuki expects that during the first year, three to five people will be employed at the facility and live in the area. At various times, additional part-time employees will be needed depending upon the workload.

Over the next three years, Suzuki expects to add additional employees every year as the scope of operation grows. In addition, Suzuki intends to use the facility for new product launches, testing, and training. Suzuki has more than 1,200 dealers and does business with more than 150 U.S.-based boat companies, who along with engineers from Japan, will be visiting the facility.  These activities will contribute to the local economy through increased air travel, hotel stays, restaurant visits, and other assorted expenses associated with business travel.

“This comes at a time when the boating industry is facing unparalleled challenges due to the coronavirus outbreak,” said Yamamoto.  “We are confident that our world and our industry will get through this crisis, which is why we are moving forward with this plan for the future.”

For more information about Suzuki’s full range of premium quality outboard motors from 2.5 to 350 horsepower, visit www.suzukimarine.com.