Governor Brian P. Kemp announced on Mar. 10 that Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. will move its U.S. headquarters to Kennesaw, Georgia, after operating in California for nearly five decades. The decision follows a meeting between Kemp and Yamaha executives at the Southeast U.S./Japan annual gathering in Tokyo last October. The relocation process is set to begin this year and continue through 2028.
The move is significant as Yamaha already employs more than 2,300 people in Georgia across various facilities. The company operates a large manufacturing plant in Newnan, which opened in 1986 and currently employs about 2,000 Georgians. In addition, Yamaha moved its marine division to Kennesaw in 1999 and expanded it with a Marine Innovation Center last year. Its motorsports operations were also relocated to the state in 2019.
“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.”
According to the official website, the Georgia State Executive utilizes the Governor’s Mansion in Atlanta—a Greek Revival-style residence built in 1967—as part of its operations within the executive branch of state administration. The mansion features Federal period art and furnishings and sits on an 18-acre property in northeast Atlanta.
The Georgia State Executive has played an active role in international economic development since establishing a representation office in Japan in 1973 according to the official website. As outlined by the official website, it provides governance, public services, and regulatory oversight for residents throughout the state.
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., founded in Japan in 1955, produces motorcycles, marine products, power products, and robotics worldwide.
