Yamaha Relocating HQ from California to Georgia
Yamaha is relocating its Orange County HQ to Georgia after nearly 50 years, citing "structural reforms" amid a trend of companies fleeing high-tax states.
The relocation will occur in phases, starting in late 2026 and concluding by the end of 2028. Yamaha will sell its 25.1-acre Cypress, California campus, which has been its home since 1979. The company cites rising costs from U.S. tariffs and a changing market as reasons for the move. By moving corporate functions to Kennesaw, Yamaha aims to streamline operations, as its marine and motorsports divisions are already located there. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp welcomed Yamaha, highlighting the state's business-friendly environment. He contrasted Georgia's policies with those of California, pointing to lower taxes and a balanced budget as attractive factors for businesses. Yamaha already employs over 2,300 people in Georgia, primarily at its factory in Newnan. The company's marine business moved to Kennesaw in 1999, followed by its motorsports business in 2019.