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KENNESAW, Ga. (WALB) - Yamaha Motor Company is working to relocate its U.S. headquarters to Kennesaw, Georgia. Yamaha produces motorcycles, personal watercraft, various marine products, ATVs and other motorized products. The company currently employs 2,000 Georgians at various plants in Newnan and Kennesaw.

In a statement, Yamaha said it is “undertaking structural reforms aimed at improving the profitability of its U.S. operations in response to cost increases resulting from U.S. tariffs and changes in the market environment.”

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp commented on the move on Tuesday, March 10.

“After many years of great partnership, we are honored and proud to welcome Yamaha’s American headquarters to the No. 1 state for business. This is another loud and clear testament to what we offer job creators from around the world.”

The relocation will start this year and continue into 2028. Yamaha first began manufacturing in Georgia in 1986. In 1999, the company relocated its marine division to Kennesaw. That plant was expanded in 2023. In 2019, Yamaha moved its motorsports division to Georgia.

Yamaha’s headquarters had previously been based in Cypress, California, for 50 years. As part of the relocation, the company said it will sell its fixed assets in California, including land, offices and warehouses.

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