Suzuki Marine USA has launched a new promotional initiative for its dealers aimed at encouraging boaters to transition to cleaner, more fuel-efficient 4-stroke outboards while effectively recycling their old 2-strokes.
Unveiled at the recent Minneapolis Boat Show, the ‘4-4-2’ (4-stroke for 2-stroke) program will be rolled out nationally this month.
Suzuki dealers are eligible for additional discounts that can be transferred to customers in addition to a traditional engine trade. Dealers must commit to scrapping or recycling the 2-stroke outboard, with the proceeds donated to an environmental organization of their choice. This program covers any brand of 2-stroke outboard traded in, regardless of its age or condition.
“We developed a pilot program over the summer with our dealer, Dan Chesky of Dan’s Southside in Minneapolis,” said Brandon Cerka, Suzuki Marine’s general manager of sales and marketing, in a company news release. “He achieved great success, which motivated us to expand the program nationally to help our dealers transition customers to clean-burning Suzuki 4-stroke technology and to remove as many old 2-stroke motors from the water as possible.”
Suzuki Marine representatives, along with Dan’s Southside, met with MN-Fish during the Minneapolis Boat Show to launch the 4-4-2 program and announced a US$4,000 donation to MN-Fish executive director Mark Holsten for every 2-stroke outboard converted and recycled during the pilot period. MN-Fish (Minnesota Sportfishing Foundation Coalition) is a non-profit organization advocating for the interests of Minnesota anglers, clubs, local organizations, and industry stakeholders.
Suzuki Marine has graciously committed to matching the initial US$4,000 donation to MN-Fish, thereby doubling the positive impact and providing strong momentum to the program. “We believe this initiative will raise awareness for our engines and demonstrate our commitment — alongside our dealers and customers — to enhancing the health of our lakes, rivers, and oceans,” Cerka stated.