Brunswick Corporation, a prominent player in the marine technology sector, has been honored by Fast Company as one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2026. This annual recognition highlights businesses that are making significant contributions to their industries and cultures through groundbreaking innovations. Brunswick’s inclusion on this prestigious list emphasizes its role in reshaping the marine industry through technological advancements and customer-focused solutions.
Dave Foulkes, the CEO of Brunswick Corporation, expressed that innovation is central to the company's operations and its commitment to transforming the marine experience for customers. He described the recognition as a reflection of their ongoing dedication to progress and the philosophy of 'Next Never Rests.' This mindset not only drives product development but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and adaptation within the organization.
In 2025, Brunswick launched over 100 new products across its various divisions, including the Boat Group, Mercury Marine, Navico Group, and Flite. Many of these innovations align with the company's ACES strategy, which focuses on Autonomy, Connectivity, Electrification, and Shared Access. This strategic approach serves as a cornerstone of Brunswick's vision for the future of marine technology, positioning the company as a leader in the evolving landscape of the industry.
Among the standout innovations introduced in 2025 was the Simrad® AutoCaptain™ Autonomous Boating System. This system features full auto-docking capabilities, marking a significant advancement in intelligent boating technology. Such innovations not only enhance the user experience but also pave the way for a new era of self-guided boating, reflecting a broader trend towards automation in various sectors.
At the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show, Brunswick’s Sea Ray brand showcased the SLX 360 Outboard, which is powered by triple Mercury Marine V10 outboard engines. This model incorporates the Simrad® AutoCaptain™, steering wheel-integrated controls, and dual Simrad Ultrawide NSX displays, among other advanced features. The integration of these technologies illustrates Brunswick's commitment to providing comprehensive and cutting-edge solutions in the boating market.
Additionally, the SLX 360 Outboard includes Fathom® e-Power electrical power management, gyroscopic stabilization, and Lenco Pro Control auto-leveling. These features not only enhance the performance and safety of the vessel but also contribute to a more enjoyable boating experience. Brunswick’s ability to develop such integrated solutions underscores its leadership in marine innovation and technology.
Fast Company’s list of the Most Innovative Companies is a highly anticipated annual feature that evaluates organizations based on their impact and ability to drive change. The selection process involves a thorough review of thousands of submissions, allowing Fast Company’s editors to identify companies that exemplify innovation and leadership in their respective fields. This recognition serves as a benchmark for excellence and a guide for others in the industry.
Brendan Vaughan, editor-in-chief of Fast Company, noted that the honorees are organizations that not only adapt to change but actively drive it. The companies recognized this year are setting new standards for leadership and innovation, demonstrating how bold ideas can translate into real-world value. Brunswick’s recognition reinforces the importance of sustained innovation in maintaining a competitive edge in the marine industry.
Brunswick's recognition underscores the growing importance of innovation in the marine industry, particularly as companies pivot towards more sustainable and technologically advanced solutions. This trend may encourage competitors to accelerate their own development efforts to keep pace with Brunswick's advancements.
