Kennesaw, Georgia – Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., a globally recognized manufacturer of motorcycles, marine equipment, and power products, has announced plans to relocate its United States headquarters to Kennesaw, Georgia. Governor Brian P. Kemp welcomed the decision, calling it a major milestone for the state’s growing reputation as a hub for international business and manufacturing.
The move marks a significant shift for Yamaha, which has operated its American headquarters in California for roughly five decades.
According to state officials, the relocation will begin later this year and unfold gradually through 2028 as the company transitions its corporate operations to Georgia.
Governor Kemp said the decision reflects years of partnership between the state and the company.
“After many years of great partnership, we are honored and proud to welcome Yamaha’s American headquarters to the No. 1 state for business,” said Governor Brian Kemp.
“This is another loud and clear testament to what we offer job creators from around the world. To any other California-based companies looking for a better home, we’ll give you plenty of reasons to keep Georgia on your mind.”
The governor praised the announcement as further evidence of Georgia’s appeal to major employers. He described the state as a welcoming environment for global companies seeking stability, opportunity, and room to grow. Kemp also suggested the move sends a broader message to businesses considering relocation, emphasizing that Georgia continues to position itself as a leading destination for investment and job creation.
Yamaha is far from new to the Peach State. The company already maintains a substantial footprint across several Georgia locations and employs more than 2,300 people statewide. One of its largest operations is the Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America facility in Newnan, a 1.3-million-square-foot factory that opened in 1986 and now supports roughly 2,000 jobs.
Over the years, Yamaha has steadily expanded its Georgia presence. Its marine division relocated to Kennesaw in 1999, strengthening the company’s foothold in the region. More recently, the firm added a 75,000-square-foot Marine Innovation Center in 2023. Earlier, in 2019, Yamaha also moved its motorsports operations to Georgia, allowing the company to bring key functions closer together.
Founded in 1955 and headquartered in Iwata, Japan, Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. has grown into a global leader in motorized products ranging from motorcycles and ATVs to boat engines and robotics technologies. The company operates under a philosophy centered on creating “Kando,” a concept focused on delivering a sense of excitement and fulfillment through its products.
With the relocation of its U.S. headquarters now underway, Yamaha’s long-standing relationship with Georgia is set to deepen even further in the years ahead.
