NEWS

Chicago Rubber & Seal Honored with Supplier of the Year Award

Chicago Rubber & Seal is thrilled to announce that we have received the prestigious Supplier of the Year Award from Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., U.S.A. in Maryville on June 2nd, 2025. This esteemed recognition highlights our dedication to excellence and the robust partnership we share with Kawasaki. Our commitment to delivering high-quality products, dependable service, and innovative solutions has earned us this honor. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kawasaki for this accolade and are excited to strengthen our collaboration, driving success together in the future.

A Kawasaki off-road vehicle parked on grass near a pond, with a man and woman standing beside it, talking, in a rural landscape during sunset, with the word "RIDGE" in large letters at the top.

In October 2022, Chicago Rubber & Seal, Inc. was awarded the Business As Usual Award from Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., USA. CRS was one of the few suppliers that did not shut down production and service during the Covid-19 Pandemic and subsequent supply chain crisis over the following years. Due to our well-thought-out and stable supply chain model, CRS was able to continue production and set itself as a trustworthy business to work with. Chicago Rubber & Seal was 1/15 suppliers to receive the award, out of a pool of 150 suppliers total.

A wooden plaque award with the Kawasaki logo in red at the top. The award is titled 'Business As Usual Award' and is presented to Chicago Rubber & Seal for their contribution to Kawasaki's Lincoln facility, dated October 6th, 2022.

In April 2022, Manitou and Rotax initiated the manufacturing of their latest boat and engine design. For this project, CRS was selected as a key supplier, responsible for delivering a wide range of components essential for the boat and engine platform. CRS successfully provided custom molded rubber and engineered plastic components. Notably, Chicago Rubber & Seal played a significant role in supplying a comprehensive package for Rotax’s cooling and oil system, contributing to the success of this remarkable engineering achievement.

Rear of a boat with a black and gray outboard motor labeled ROTAX 150, partially submerged in water as part of their new engine lineup.
A Manitou boat on calm water during sunset with trees in the background.
Letter from Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp. dated June 2nd, 2025, addressed to Kawasaki partners. The letter expresses gratitude for support, discusses global supply chain planning, highlights key focus areas for 2025 including quality and on-time delivery, and congratulates suppliers for receiving awards in 2024. It is signed by Paula Wynn, Purchasing Manager, and provides contact information and addresses.

Chicago Rubber & Seal is proud to have played a key role in supporting the development and supply of essential components for the latest Kawasaki Ridge Side by Side.

Our high-quality contributions enhance the vehicle’s performance and reliability in rugged off-road environments. We are thankful for this recognition and excited to continue our strong partnership with Kawasaki.