Business
Aliʻi Drive’s 90-day trial as one-way street to create free parking also is creating traffic woes
The trial was put into place to address the skyrocketing parking prices and limited free spaces that have become a problem for the downtown business district.
Watch: Hawaiʻi pushed toward mild recession because of Trump policies, UHERO forecast shows
The organization’s 2025 second quarter forecast shows sharp increases in U.S. import tariffs, sweeping federal layoffs along with volatile fiscal and immigration policies are undermining consumer confidence, raising inflation expectations and worsening the business outlook — nationally and in Hawaiʻi’s visitor-dependent economy.
Business Monday: Two conferences aim to educate food preservers, fruit growers
The Hawaiʻi Master Food Preservers debuts its first conference on Thursday, Oct. 23, with the 35th Hawaiʻi International Tropical Fruit Growers Conference following that weekend from Friday, Oct. 24 to Sunday, Oct. 26.
Hawaiʻi Pacific Export Council appoints new Executive Committee
Byron Goo, CEO of Tea Chest Hawaiʻi, will serve as chair of the nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting U.S. exports and international trade development.
Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company voluntarily recalls batch of dark chocolate-covered nuts
The limited liability company recalled packages in the 0.6-ounce and 4-ounce bags that were distributed to multiple retail locations.
Business Monday: Oasis Skateshop hits 9 years as a hub for Hilo skaters
Oasis Skateshop in Hilo continues to host events and engage the local scene while the skate community eagerly anticipates the building of the long-awaited county skatepark for all ages and skill levels.
Business Monday: Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Arts and Crafts Fair kicks off this week
The Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Arts and Craft Fair kicks off on Wednesday and ends on Saturday. Vendors will be located at the Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium & Butler Buildings from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Trial run: Ali‘i Drive being turned into one-way road for creation of free public parking in Kona
Starting May 1, the oceanfront roadway, from Kailua Pier to Hualālai Road, will be open for southbound traffic only to create about 50 parking spaces on the northbound side.
Aging Kona Inn Shopping Village struggling to sell despite property’s century history as tourist mecca
The brokerage firm handling the sale of the Kona Inn shopping Village lists the price as “best offer.”
Business Monday: West Hawai‘i Animal Urgent Care treating pets one emergency at a time
Since Maria Jose opened West Hawai‘i Animal Urgent Care in December 2024 she has seen several animals with a wide range of ailments. Aside from cats and dogs, Jose has treated chickens, guinea pigs and rabbits.
Creative Media Summit ignites momentum for Hawai‘i Island’s creative economy
More than 150 stakeholders came together last week at the Arc of Hilo to collaborate during Hawai’i County’s first event focused on launching a thriving Big Island creative sector.
Hunt is on at KTA Super Stores on Big Island for chance to win iPad and $250 gift card
Be on the look out for for a giant egg with a QR code as you’re cruising the aisle at any of the 7 participating KTA Super Stores and KTA Express locations through April 20 as part of the grocer’s family-friendly annual Easter Egg Hunt tradition.
State agency to cover vendor booth fees for 9 Hawaiian-owned businesses participating in Merrie Monarch Market
The grant also covers the businesses’ marketing to enhance their visibility.
County Council passes pilot program to allow mobile vendors along a stretch of highway in Kona
Commercial vendors will be allowed to apply for a permit to operate within a 200-yard section on the ocean side of Ane Keohokālole Highway.
Business Monday: Big Island chef delivering organic meals while supporting local farmers, ranchers
Chef Jasmine Silverstein says her Meals in a HeartBeet business is “locally sourced, but globally inspired.”
Business Monday: Ola! New kava bar in Hilo creates welcoming space for relaxation
Father-daughter duo Laurent and Yaelle Olivier celebrate their South Pacific heritage and Hawaiian awa with the opening of Kava Republic in Hilo.
Business Monday: Sale price drops 50% for 2 Kona restaurants along Aliʻi Drive
The leases and contents of the iconic Kona Inn Restaurant and the Kona Canoe Club, once owned by LA Dodger great Don Drysdale, are for sale for a combined $1.5 million.
UH Economic Research Organization says Trump’s cuts, tariffs could hurt Hawaiʻi’s economy
While tax cuts may provide some stimulus this year, the new administration’s actions — including tariffs, mass deportations and spending cuts — will impose significant drag thereafter, UHERO states in its first quarter forecast for 2025.
Hawaiʻi Small Business Capital Program awarded $20 million
The infusion of money from the US Treasury brings total federal support to $40.3 million.
Business Monday: Immerse yourself in Hawai‘i’s landscapes through Flight of Aloha theater
Flight of Aloha will finally become a reality opening March 1 on the Big Island at King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort.
