The first outboard brand — founded 113 years ago by Ole Evinrude— is no more.
Bombardier Recreational Products announced that they would cease production of all Evinrude outboards, and their Sturtevant, Wis., facility will shift to pursue new projects related to BRP’s boat holdings.
“Our outboard engines business has been greatly impacted by covid-19, obliging us to discontinue production of our outboard motors immediately. This business segment had already been facing some challenges and the impact from the current context has forced our hand,” said BRP president and CEO José Boisjoli in a statement.
In a letter to state officials — in accordance with Wisconsin Business Closing and Mass Layoff Law — BRP said it would eliminate a total of 387 positions in Sturtevant, including employees currently on furlough. Some workers will be recalled and gradually laid off through September.
Going forward, Boisjoli said BRP would focus on their current boat companies — Alumacraft, Manitou and Telwater — and leverage their R&D resources for an expanded presence here.
“We will concentrate our efforts on new and innovative technologies and on the development of our boat companies, where we continue to see a lot of potential to transform the on-water experience for consumers,” Boisjoli added.
The company has inked a deal with Mercury Marine to power the aforementioned brands.
As for its dealer network, BRP said it will honor all warranties, continue to supply parts and offer “select programs” to manage inventory.
The company will also consolidate Alumacraft operations to their St Peter, Minn., facility; the location in Arkadelphia, Ark., Is to be shut down. The company did not provide timing or job losses associated with the closure.
