News

Suzuki Marine USA has introduced a new promotional program for its dealers to help move boaters into cleaner, more fuel-efficient 4-stroke outboards while properly recycling their old 2-strokes.

Introduced at the recent Minneapolis Boat Show, the ‘4-4-2’ (or 4-stroke for 2-stroke) program will roll out nationally this month.

Suzuki dealers can receive additional discounts that can be passed along to customers on top of a traditional engine trade. Dealers must agree to scrap or recycle the 2-stroke outboard, with the money received donated to an environmental organization of the dealers’ choice. The program applies to any brand of 2-stroke outboard traded in regardless of age or condition.

“We worked on a pilot program over the summer with our dealer Dan Chesky of Dan’s Southside in Minneapolis,” said Brandon Cerka, Suzuki Marine general manager sales and marketing, in a company news release. “He was very successful, and this got us excited about the benefits of expanding the program nationally to help our dealers move customers into clean burning Suzuki 4-stroke technology — while getting as many old 2-stroke motors off the water as we can.”

Representatives of Suzuki Marine and Dan’s Southside met with MN-Fish during the Minneapolis Boat Show to kick off the 4-4-2 program and will be donating US$4,000 to MN-Fish executive director Mark Holsten for all the 2-stroke outboards converted and scrapped during the pilot period. MN-Fish (Minnesota Sportfishing Foundation Coalition) is a non-profit representing the interests of all Minnesota anglers, clubs, local organizations, and industry stakeholders.

Suzuki Marine generously agreed to match the initial US$4,000 donation to MN-Fish to double the positive impact and give the program strong momentum. “We know this program is going to generate more awareness for our engines and show we’re serious — along with our dealers and customers — about improving the health of our lakes, rivers and oceans,” Cerka said.