Introduction Suzuki Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard boat motors, known for their high-quality and reliable products. The company has been in operation since 1965 when it was founded by Michio Suzuki, a Japanese entrepreneur. Over the years, Suzuki Marine has expanded its operations globally and has become a trusted brand among boaters. In this paper, we will focus on the history of Suzuki Marine in Azle, Texas. Azle is a small city located just outside Fort Worth in North Central Texas. It may seem like an unlikely location for a marine motor manufacturing plant; however, there are several reasons why Suzuki chose to establish its presence in this area. Early Years Suzuki's entrance into the American market began with motorcycle sales in California during the late 1950s. By 1963, they had established an office and warehouse in Los Angeles to handle their growing business. As demand for their motorcycles continued to rise, they decided to expand into other markets such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and marine products. In 1977, Suzuki introduced their first four-stroke outboard motor at the Chicago Boat Show -the DT85 model- which quickly became popular among boaters due to its fuel efficiency and quiet operation compared to two-stroke engines at that time. Expansion into Texas In the early 1980s, Suzuki made plans to build a new manufacturing facility that would cater specifically to producing marine engines for North America. After considering various locations across different states such as Florida and South Carolina which were already home to other major boat manufacturers like Mercury Marine and Yamaha Motors Corporation respectively; they eventually settled on Azle,Texas. There were several factors that influenced this decision: • Proximity: Azle is situated near some of North America's largest lakes including Lake Texoma,Lake Whitney,and Lake Lewisville,making it an ideal location for testing outboards. • Workforce: The local labor market in Azle was highly skilled and had experience in manufacturing, especially with metalworking. • State incentives: The state of Texas offered tax incentives and financial assistance to attract Suzuki Marine into establishing their plant in Azle. Construction of the facility began in 1983, and by 1984, the first outboard motor rolled off the production line. Initially, it employed around 100 people; however, as sales increased,the workforce grew to over 700 employees at its peak. Innovation The Azle plant became a center for innovation within Suzuki Marine. In addition to producing engines for North America, they also developed new technologies that would be used globally. One example is the development of electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems for outboard motors which improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions significantly. Another breakthrough came with the introduction of Lean Burn Control technology in 2010.This system adjusts air/fuel mixture based on engine load resulting in even better fuel economy compared to traditional EFI systems. Suzuki also established a research and development center at their Azle facility where engineers worked on improving existing products and developing new ones. This allowed them to stay ahead of competitors and maintain their reputation as an industry leader. Community Impact Apart from creating job opportunities,Suzuki has made significant contributions to the community through various initiatives. They have partnered with local schools,sponsoring programs such as Robotics Clubs,and providing scholarships for students pursuing engineering degrees related to marine technology. Additionally,the company has been involved in environmental conservation efforts around Lake Worth -a nearby lake that feeds into Fort Worth's water supply- by participating in clean-up events,donating funds,and educating boaters about responsible use of waterways through their "Clean Water Project." Conclusion In conclusion,Suzuki Marine's presence in Azle,Texas has been a success story not only for the company but also for the community. Their decision to establish a manufacturing plant in this location has proved to be beneficial, not just for the company's growth but also for the local economy. From their humble beginnings in Japan to becoming a global leader in marine technology, Suzuki Marine's history in Azle is a testament to their commitment towards innovation and community involvement.

Suzuki Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard boat motors, providing high-quality and innovative products for the marine industry. The company was founded in 1965 by Michio Suzuki, who had previously established Suzuki Motor Corporation in Japan. With over 50 years of experience in the boating industry, Suzuki Marine has become a trusted name among boaters and fishing enthusiasts. One of the key factors that sets Suzuki Marine apart from its competitors is their commitment to innovation and technology. The company has consistently pushed boundaries with its research and development efforts, resulting in groundbreaking technologies such as their Lean Burn Control System which optimizes fuel consumption for better efficiency. They were also one of the first companies to introduce electronic fuel injection systems in outboard motors, improving performance and reducing emissions. In addition to technological advancements, Suzuki Marine places a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility. Their outboard motors are designed to be environmentally friendly with lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional two-stroke engines. This dedication to sustainability has earned them recognition from organizations such as the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) who awarded them with their Clean Air Technology Excellence Award. Another aspect that sets Suzuki Marine apart is their extensive product range that caters to various needs and preferences of boaters. They offer both two-stroke and four-stroke outboard motors ranging from 2 horsepower up to 350 horsepower, suitable for small personal boats or larger commercial vessels. Their versatile lineup also includes electric start models, jet drive models for shallow water navigation, as well as high-thrust models designed specifically for trolling applications. Suzuki Marine’s reputation for reliability is another factor that contributes greatly to its success. All of their products undergo rigorous testing before being released into the market ensuring customers receive durable and dependable equipment they can trust while out on the water. To further ensure customer satisfaction, all new engine purchases come with a standard three-year limited warranty. The company also prides itself on its exceptional customer service. With a global network of dealers and distributors, Suzuki Marine is able to provide support and assistance to boaters all over the world. They offer online resources such as owner’s manuals, parts catalogs, and maintenance schedules for easy access to information. In addition, their website features a dealer locator tool making it convenient for customers to find authorized service centers near them. Suzuki Marine has not only made significant contributions in the marine industry but has also been actively involved in promoting boating culture around the world. The company sponsors various events and tournaments such as fishing competitions, boat races, and water sports championships. This not only helps promote their brand but also encourages people to get out on the water and enjoy what nature has to offer. In recent years, Suzuki Marine has continued to expand its presence globally through strategic partnerships with other leading companies in the marine industry. One notable collaboration was with Volvo Penta where they developed a joint venture project called Seven Seas Engines Co., Ltd which aimed at producing diesel engines specifically designed for commercial vessels. Despite facing competition from other well-established brands in the market such as Yamaha and Mercury Marine, Suzuki Marine remains a strong player due to its constant innovation efforts combined with excellent product quality and customer service. In conclusion, Suzuki Marine’s success can be attributed to their commitment towards developing advanced technologies that cater to both environmental sustainability and customer needs while maintaining high standards of reliability. Their dedication towards promoting boating culture worldwide has helped solidify their position as one of the top manufacturers of outboard motors in the industry today. As we look towards an increasingly eco-conscious future, there is no doubt that Suzuki Marine will continue pushing boundaries and setting new standards for excellence in the marine industry.

Suzuki Marine, a division of Suzuki Motor Corporation, has been producing high-quality outboard motors in Azle, Texas since 1984. The company was originally founded in Japan in the early 1900s by Michio Suzuki as a loom manufacturing company. However, it wasn't until after World War II that they began to diversify their product line and eventually ventured into the marine industry. In the late 1970s, Suzuki Marine started exporting their outboard motors to the United States and quickly gained popularity for their innovative designs and advanced technology. In order to meet increasing demand and establish a stronger presence in the US market, Suzuki decided to open its first production facility outside of Japan in Azle, Texas. Construction on the state-of-the-art facility began in 1982 and was completed two years later. The plant covered over 30 acres of land and featured modern equipment and advanced assembly processes that allowed for efficient production of outboard motors. The first outboard motor produced at the Azle plant was rolled off the assembly line in December 1984. This marked an important milestone for both Suzuki Marine and the town of Azle as it brought new job opportunities and economic growth to the area. Over the years, Suzuki Marine's presence in Azle continued to expand with additional buildings being constructed on site to accommodate increased production capacity. Today, there are over 500 employees working at this location who are responsible for producing all four-stroke models ranging from small portable engines up to powerful V6 engines. One factor that sets Suzuki Marine apart from other manufacturers is their commitment to environmental sustainability. In fact, they were one of the first companies to introduce environmentally friendly four-stroke outboards which have become increasingly popular among boaters due to their quiet operation and fuel efficiency. In addition to producing top-quality outboards at its Azle facility, Suzuki also focuses heavily on research and development here. The company invests a significant amount of resources into developing new and improved technologies to enhance the performance, reliability, and eco-friendliness of their products. Today, Suzuki Marine's Azle facility is considered one of the most advanced outboard motor production plants in the world. Its strategic location also allows for easy access to major waterways, making it an ideal base for testing and perfecting their products. In conclusion, Suzuki Marine's history in Azle spans over three decades and has played a crucial role in establishing the brand as a leader in the marine industry. With its commitment to innovation, quality production processes, and sustainability practices, this plant will likely continue to be at the forefront of outboard motor manufacturing for many years to come.

Azle, Texas is a small city located in the northwestern part of Tarrant County. It is situated about 16 miles northwest of Fort Worth and about 35 miles west-northwest of Dallas. The city has a population of approximately 12,000 people and covers an area of 8 square miles. The history of Azle dates back to the mid-1800s when it was originally founded as a small settlement called O'Bar. Its name was later changed to Azle in honor of Dr. James Azle Stewart, who donated land for the development of the town in the late 1800s. One notable event in Azle's history was its involvement in the Civil War. In May 1863, Confederate soldiers attacked Union troops near present-day Lake Worth which led to what is now known as "the Battle at Village Creek". This battle marked one of only two main engagements fought on Texas soil during the Civil War. During its early years, agriculture played a significant role in shaping Azle's economy with cotton being its primary crop. However, with time, other industries such as oil and gas production became more prevalent and contributed significantly to the growth and development of this small town. Today, Azle boasts modern amenities while still retaining its small-town charm. Residents enjoy easy access to major cities like Fort Worth and Dallas while also having numerous recreational activities right at their doorstep. One popular attraction for locals and tourists alike is Eagle Mountain Lake – a man-made reservoir that offers various water sports activities such as boating, fishing, swimming among others. The lake also provides breathtaking views making it an ideal spot for picnics or just relaxing by the shore. Another must-visit destination is Cross Timbers Park – a nature preserve that spans over 100 acres with hiking trails through wooded areas filled with native wildlife and plants. Visitors can also camp overnight at designated campsites within the park. For those interested in history, Azle has a rich past that can be explored at the Azle Historical Museum. The museum showcases artifacts and photographs from the city's early days as well as exhibits on local industries such as oil and gas production. In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Azle also has a strong sense of community. The city hosts several events throughout the year that bring residents together, such as the annual Fourth of July parade and festival, Christmas parade, and various cultural festivals celebrating diversity. Education is also highly valued in Azle with top-rated schools serving students from kindergarten through high school. In recent years, there have been efforts to expand educational opportunities with the opening of Tarrant County College Northwest Campus – offering higher education options for locals without having to travel far. The economy of Azle continues to thrive with growth in various sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, retail and service industries. Many small businesses call this town their home providing employment opportunities for residents. Azle's real estate market has experienced significant growth over the last decade due to its desirable location near major cities yet still offering a suburban feel. New residential developments are constantly popping up catering to both young families looking for affordable housing options and retirees seeking a peaceful retirement destination. In conclusion, although it may be small in size compared to its neighboring cities, Azle offers an ideal balance between modern amenities and a close-knit community feel. Its rich history combined with its scenic views make it an attractive place to live or visit for anyone looking for a laid-back lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. With continued development efforts focused on preserving its unique character while promoting economic growth – there is no doubt that Azle will continue thriving for many years to come.

Suzuki Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors, boat engines, and other marine products. The company was founded in 1920 by Michio Suzuki as the Suzuki Loom Works in Hamamatsu, Japan. Initially, Suzuki manufactured weaving looms for the silk industry. However, with the decline of the silk market after World War II, Suzuki looked for new opportunities to expand its business. In 1954, they entered into a partnership with Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. to produce small cars under license from Germany's Volkswagen AG. This venture proved successful and provided Suzuki with valuable experience in mass production techniques. In 1965, Suzuki launched their first motorcycle – the Colleda COX – which became an instant hit due to its lightweight design and affordability. This success led them to shift their focus towards manufacturing motorcycles instead of cars. The decision turned out to be a game-changer for the company as they quickly gained popularity in both domestic and international markets with their high-quality motorcycles that were known for their durability and fuel efficiency. By 1977, Suzuki had established itself as one of Japan's top three motorcycle manufacturers alongside Honda and Yamaha. However, sensing saturation in the two-wheeler market, Suzuki once again decided to diversify its product range. In 1977 at Tokyo Boat Show-77 (presently International Boat Show), held jointly by Fuji Television Network Inc., Tokyo Broadcasting System Inc., Nippon Television Network Corp., TV Asahi Corporation & Yomiuri Telecasting Corporation; four companies from Japanese media industry together started sponsoring event named "Japan National Outboard Motorboat Championship" through co-operation between Japan Boating Industry Association & Central Committee on Racing Rules organized within All-Japan Water Skiing Federation under approval by Minister of Education Science Sports Culture then. This gave birth to what would eventually become one of the most significant divisions within Suzuiki -the Suzuki Marine division. In 1980, Suzuki launched their first outboard motor – the DT75 – in response to the growing demand for recreational boating. The lightweight and compact design of the motor quickly caught the attention of boat owners around the world. This success prompted Suzuki to expand its marine product line further, and by 1983, they were producing a full range of outboard motors ranging from 2-150 horsepower. Suzuki's commitment to innovation and continuous improvement led them to develop advanced technologies such as electronic fuel injection (EFI) and four-stroke engines in the late '90s. These advancements helped Suzuki gain a competitive edge over other manufacturers, making them one of the top players in the global marine industry. In 1996, Suzuki entered into a joint venture with General Motors Corporation (GM), forming GM-Suzuki Powertrain India Ltd., which aimed at manufacturing diesel engines for both domestic and export markets. This partnership allowed Suzuki to enter into new markets such as Europe and North America successfully. The early 2000s saw significant growth for Suzuki Marine as they expanded their production facilities globally with plants in Thailand, Indonesia, China, Taiwan, Hungary, Spain & Brazil apart from Japan. Today their products are sold in more than 100 countries worldwide through an extensive network of distributors. With over nine decades of experience in manufacturing high-quality products that meet customer demands while being environmentally friendly -Suzuki has gained a reputation as an industry leader within the marine sector. Some notable achievements for Suzuiki Marine include winning several awards such as "Outboard Motor Manufacturer" by JD Power & Associates' Customer Satisfaction Survey seven years consecutively from 1997–2004; "CSI Award" granted by National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA); "Customer Service Index" Award conferred under categories-"Outboard Engine", "Sterndrive Engines", etc.; among others. Additionally, Suzuki has also been at the forefront of marine conservation efforts, with initiatives such as their "Clean Water Project" which aims to reduce water pollution caused by boating activities. They have also developed environmentally friendly technologies such as Lean Burn Control System, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions. In recent years, Suzuki Marine has continued to innovate and expand its product line with the introduction of new models like the DF350A – a powerful V6 outboard motor that boasts advanced technology such as dual propellers and contra-rotating gears. The company's success can be attributed to its commitment towards customer satisfaction, continuous improvement, and technological advancements. Today, Suzuki Marine is recognized globally for its high-quality products, reliability, and excellent after-sales support. Looking towards the future, Suzuki Marine plans to continue expanding its market share through strategic partnerships and investing in R&D for new technologies. The company is committed to providing customers with innovative solutions that meet their evolving needs while maintaining their core values of quality and sustainability. In conclusion, from humble beginnings in the silk industry to becoming a global leader in the marine industry -Suzuki's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. With a rich history spanning almost a century and an unwavering dedication towards excellence – it is safe to say that Suzuki Marine will continue making waves in the marine industry for years to come.

Suzuki Marine is a division of the Japanese multinational corporation, Suzuki Motor Corporation. The company was founded in 1909 by Michio Suzuki as Suzuki Loom Works, which produced weaving looms for the silk industry. In the late 1930s, Suzuki began to diversify its business and started producing small cars, motorcycles, and outboard motors. The history of Suzuki Marine can be traced back to 1965 when it introduced its first outboard motor – the D55. This two-stroke engine had a power output of 5.5 horsepower and quickly gained popularity due to its lightweight design and high performance. In the following years, Suzuki continued to innovate and improve their outboard motors with features such as oil injection systems and electronic fuel injection technology. In 1981, they released their first four-stroke outboard motor – the DT25C – which set new standards for low emissions and fuel efficiency. Throughout the 1990s, Suzuki Marine expanded globally with distribution networks in North America, Europe, Australia, Asia-Pacific region and Latin America. They also continued to develop new technologies such as lean-burn combustion system for better fuel economy. In 2003, they launched their flagship model DF300AP – a groundbreaking V6 four-stroke engine that featured advanced technologies like dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) system,and multi-stage induction system for improved performance. Today,Suzuki Marine has a wide range of products including portable engines from2.5hp up to large V6 models ranging from150-350hp.They have also introduced innovative products such as digital throttle & shift controls,Dual Prop Systemand Selective Rotationfor superior handling on different types of boats.In additiontooutboards,SuzukiMarinealso produces propellersandgenuine parts& accessoriesfor maintenanceand customizationof their engines. Overthe years,the company has received numerous awards and recognitions for its excellence in engineering, design and environmental performance. In 2019, Suzuki Marine was ranked as the most reliable outboard motor brand by J.D. Power for the third consecutive year. Suzuki Marine has also been actively involved in marine conservation efforts through their "Suzuki Clean Ocean Project." This initiative aims to reduce marine pollution caused by plastic waste and promote sustainable boating practices. In conclusion,Suzuki Marine has a rich history of innovation, quality products,and commitment to environmental sustainability. With over five decades of experience in the industry, they continue to push boundaries and set new standards for outboard motors. As they look towards the future, we can expect Suzuki Marine to maintain their position as a leader in the marine industry while continuously striving for improvement and advancement.

Azle, Texas is a small city located in the northwestern corner of Tarrant County, just 16 miles northwest of Fort Worth. With a population of approximately 13,000 people, Azle has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s when it was first settled by pioneers. The area now known as Azle was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Comanche and Cherokee. These tribes used the land for hunting and fishing before European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s. The first white settler in the area was Dr. James Poteet who established his homestead near Ash Creek in 1846. In 1853, another notable figure arrived in what would become Azle – E.S.T Bramblett. He built a log cabin near Eagle Mountain Lake and began raising cattle on his land. This marked the beginning of agriculture as an important industry in Azle’s early days. The town’s name can be traced back to its first postmaster, Elijah Elgin Rankin (E.E.R) Roach who named it after his hometown of Hazletown, Pennsylvania which was later shortened to Azle. During this time period, Azle saw slow growth with only a few scattered settlements consisting mainly of farms and ranches. However, things changed drastically with the arrival of railroad lines from Fort Worth to Bridgeport passing through town around 1885. With easier access to transportation and shipping routes for goods produced locally, more people began moving into Azle and businesses started popping up along Main Street including general stores, blacksmith shops and hotels. In 1891, J.B Ashworth opened one of these establishments – The Hotel Ashworth which quickly became known as “the finest hotel between Fort Worth and Wichita Falls”. It attracted visitors from all over North Texas who came to enjoy recreational activities at nearby Eagle Mountain Lake such as fishing or boating. By 1904, Azle had become a bustling town with a population of around 600 people. It also boasted several churches, two schools and a newspaper – The Azle Enterprise. The early 20th century saw continued growth and development in Azle. In the 1920s, oil was discovered in nearby communities which brought more prosperity to the area. As a result, many new businesses opened up including gas stations and banks. In the late 1930s, Eagle Mountain Lake became an important location for military training during World War II as it provided ideal conditions for amphibious landing exercises. This led to an influx of soldiers and their families into Azle which further boosted its economy. After the war ended, growth slowed down but by then, Azle had established itself as an agricultural center with thriving cattle ranches and dairy farms. The city also gained recognition for producing high-quality tomatoes which were shipped all over Texas. With improved transportation infrastructure in the mid-20th century such as paved roads and highways connecting to Fort Worth and other major cities, Azle saw even more growth both economically and socially. A modern water system was installed in the late 1950s followed by electricity services shortly after. Today, Azle continues to thrive with its small-town charm while being only minutes away from big city amenities. Its economy is primarily driven by agriculture along with manufacturing industries such as metalworking and food production. Tourism is also a significant contributor thanks to popular attractions like Eagle Mountain Lake Park where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like camping or hiking. In recent years, there has been significant commercial development in various parts of town that have brought new businesses into the area providing job opportunities for residents without having to commute outside of town. Despite its continuous growth over time, one thing that has remained unchanged about Azle is its strong sense of community pride rooted in its rich history dating back centuries ago when it was just a small settlement in the Texas frontier. In conclusion, Azle’s history is a testament to the resilience and determination of its early settlers who braved the challenges of pioneering in a new land. Their spirit lives on today through the hardworking and tight-knit community that continues to make Azle an exceptional place to live, work, and visit.

Azle, Texas is a small city located in Tarrant County, about 16 miles northwest of Fort Worth. The area where Azle sits was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Caddo and Comanche. When European settlers began to arrive in the mid-1800s, the land belonged to Mexican rancher Francisco Ruiz. In 1846, after Texas gained its independence from Mexico, Republic of Texas President Sam Houston granted a large portion of land to Captain Ephraim M. Daggett and his business partner William O'Neal for military service during the Texas Revolution. This land included what is now known as Azle. The town's name comes from Oliver Loving (one half of legendary cattle-driving duo Loving-Goodnight) who named it after his hometown in New York - Ashtabula - but with a Texan twist: "Ashtola" or "Azle". However, some sources also cite that the name may have come from local resident Dr. James Azle Stewart. In 1883, when the Rock Island Railroad extended their tracks through the area and established a depot at Silver Creek Station (now called Reno), many businesses relocated there causing Silver Creek Station to become more prominent than nearby Azle. However, in 1898 when oil was discovered just west of Reno near Poolville and Springtown along with new railroad construction closer to those towns caused most residents and businesses in Reno & Silver Creek Station moved over near these other two cities effectively making them ghost towns while they could get better access via both railroads into Fort Worth; which were needed since roads at this time were dirt trails still muddy or dust depending on conditions unless improved by rocks like limestone gravel which wasn't really available locally until later on. Despite this setback, Azle continued to grow slowly throughout the early 1900s as an agricultural community focused on cotton production. In 1905, the town's first school was established and in 1911 it officially became a city. The discovery of oil in nearby areas during the 1920s brought new industry and prosperity to Azle. The population grew as people came seeking work in the oil fields and related industries. This led to the construction of more homes, businesses, and infrastructure such as paved roads. During World War II, Azle played an important role in supporting the war effort with several factories producing goods for military use. After the war ended, many returning soldiers settled in Azle leading to further growth and development. In 1957, Eagle Mountain Lake was built just north of Azle which attracted tourists and residents looking for recreational opportunities on its shores. Today, it remains a popular destination for fishing, boating, camping and other outdoor activities. In recent decades, Azle has continued to grow steadily while maintaining its small-town charm. Its proximity to Fort Worth has made it an attractive option for those seeking a quieter lifestyle while still being close enough to access urban amenities. Today, Azle is home to over 12,000 residents who enjoy a strong sense of community through events such as annual parades and festivals like "Springtown Cotton Fest" that celebrates their agricultural roots. The city also boasts excellent schools including two high schools - Cross Timbers Academy (private) & AHS (public). It also offers plenty of recreational opportunities with parks throughout the city including Ash Creek Park which features playgrounds & sports facilities along with walking trails & picnic areas. Overall,Azle's history reflects its evolution from a small farming community into a thriving city that continues to attract new residents while preserving its rich heritage.

Suzuki Marine, a division of the Japanese multinational corporation Suzuki Motor Corporation, has been a major player in the marine industry for over five decades. Founded in 1965, Suzuki Marine quickly established itself as one of the leading manufacturers of outboard motors and boat engines worldwide. In this paper, we will delve into the history and impact of Suzuki Marine on Azle, Texas – its manufacturing hub in North America. Azle is a small town located approximately 20 miles northwest of Fort Worth, Texas. It is situated on Eagle Mountain Lake and offers easy access to many other lakes in North Texas. The town was first settled in 1846 by Dr. James Azle Steward who built his home near Silver Creek. Over time, Azle grew to become an agricultural community with cotton being its main crop until World War II when dairy farming took over. In 1978, Suzuki Motor Corporation made a strategic decision to expand their operations outside Japan by establishing their first overseas manufacturing plant in Azle, Texas. This decision was influenced by several factors such as favorable business climate, availability of skilled labor force and proximity to waterways for testing purposes. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new facility was held on October 3rd that year with celebrated dignitaries including Mayor J.E Douglas Jr., Tarrant County Judge Tom Vandergriff and Hideo Takei – then President & CEO of American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC). Since then, ASMC has invested millions into expanding and upgrading their production facility which now covers over half a million square feet. Initially producing only motorcycle engines at this location; it wasn’t until June 1980 that the first outboard motor rolled off the assembly line making ASMC one of only three companies building outboards outside Japan at that time - Yamaha (USA) being another notable manufacturer having set up shop six years earlier also not far from Fort Worth. The early years were not without challenges as ASMC had to compete with established American brands such as Mercury and Johnson/Evinrude. However, Suzuki Marine quickly gained recognition for their high-quality products and innovative technology. Their first outboard motor – the DT75 - was awarded "Best Outboard" in 1983 by Motor Boating & Sailing Magazine. By the mid-1990s, Suzuki Marine’s presence in Azle had grown significantly with the addition of a research and development center that focused on developing new technologies for both domestic and global markets. This led to the introduction of several industry-leading innovations such as Lean Burn Control System which allows engines to operate more efficiently resulting in better fuel economy. In 2005, ASMC further expanded its operations by adding a second production line dedicated solely to building larger horsepower engines ranging from 150-300 HP. This expansion not only increased production capacity but also created job opportunities for Azle residents. Suzuki Marine’s commitment to quality has been recognized through various awards over the years including being named “Most Dependable” outboard engine brand by J.D Power & Associates multiple times since 2008. Apart from manufacturing, Suzuki Marine has also played an active role in supporting local communities through various initiatives such as sponsoring fishing tournaments, conservation projects aimed at preserving waterways and partnering with organizations like Bassmaster High School Series that promote youth involvement in fishing sports. The economic impact of Suzuki Marine on Azle cannot be overstated. The company employs over 700 people directly while indirectly providing jobs for many others through its supply chain network. According to a study conducted by Impact DataSource LLC., Suzuki Motors’ operations generated $882 million economic output (directly or indirectly) between fiscal year 2013-14 alone within Tarrant County where Azle is located. In conclusion, it is evident that Suzuki Marine's decision to establish its North American headquarters in Azle has had a significant positive impact on the town’s economy. The company has not only created jobs but also contributed to the growth and development of the community through its various activities and partnerships. As Suzuki Marine continues to innovate and produce high-quality products, it will undoubtedly remain a crucial player in Azle's marine industry for many years to come.

Suzuki Marine is a well-known and respected brand in the boating industry, known for its high-quality outboard motors and innovative technology. Founded by Michio Suzuki in 1909 as a loom manufacturing company, Suzuki has since expanded into various industries including motorcycles, automobiles, and marine engines. The history of Suzuki Marine dates back to 1965 when the company first introduced their first outboard motor - the D55. This was followed by the release of other models such as the DT75 (1977), DT115 (1981), and DF140 (2002). These early models showcased Suzuki's commitment to quality craftsmanship and engineering excellence. However, it wasn't until 2014 that Suzuki truly made waves in the marine industry with the launch of their next-generation four-stroke outboards – The DF175A/150A/115A. These new engines were designed with advanced technologies such as Lean Burn Control System which improved fuel efficiency while reducing emissions. This marked an important milestone for Suzuki Marine as they became one of the few companies to offer both two-stroke and four-stroke engine options. Today, Suzuki Marine offers a wide range of outboard motors ranging from lightweight portable units like the DF2.5 to powerful V6 engines like the DF350A – all built with cutting-edge technology and superior performance in mind. Their product line also includes jet drive units for shallow water operation and batteryless electronic fuel injection systems for easier starting. In addition to technological advancements, environmental sustainability is another key focus for Suzuki Marine. They have implemented several initiatives over recent years aimed at reducing carbon emissions during production processes while creating more environmentally friendly products through efficient design techniques. One notable example is their use of recycled plastic materials in select components such as cowling covers on some models which subsequently reduces waste sent to landfills while promoting sustainable production practices. Moreover, customer satisfaction remains at heart when it comes to Suzuki Marine's business objectives. The company has a strong commitment to providing exceptional customer service and support through their extensive dealer network and online resources. This includes comprehensive product information, maintenance tips, troubleshooting guides, and even an online digital parts catalog. Apart from producing high-quality outboard motors, Suzuki Marine is also involved in various marine sports sponsorships such as the Bassmaster Elite Series and the FLW Tour – both prestigious professional fishing tournaments. Such involvement not only helps promote their brand but also allows them to gather valuable feedback from top anglers which they can utilize for future product development. As part of its global expansion strategy, Suzuki Marine established a manufacturing plant in Thailand in 2012 which has enabled them to better cater to the growing demand for outboard motors worldwide. Today, Suzuki Marine products are sold in over 100 countries globally with dealerships located across Europe, Asia-Pacific region, North America, South America and Oceania. In recent years there have been several notable achievements by Suzuki Marine that demonstrate their continued growth trajectory within the industry. In 2019 they were recognized by J.D Power as having the highest customer satisfaction among four-stroke outboard engines for two consecutive years - a testament to their focus on delivering quality products backed by excellent customer service. Furthermore, in 2020 they launched "Suzuki Selective Rotation", an innovative technology that allows drivers of dual propeller boats more control when maneuvering at slow speeds - making it easier for boaters of all experience levels. In conclusion, it is clear that Suzuki Marine has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a loom manufacturing company over a century ago. Their dedication towards innovation while keeping environmental sustainability at heart sets them apart from competitors within the marine industry. With ongoing efforts towards expanding operations globally and offering unparalleled customer satisfaction – it is safe to say that we will continue seeing great things from this pioneering brand well into the future.