Maui Business
Ginoza, Okazaki Among PBN’s “40 Under 40”
A County director and insurance agent on Maui are among the distinguished list of individuals included in the annual “40 Under 40” list compiled by the Pacific Business News.
Maui Unemployment Rate Unchanged at 4.7% in May
In Maui County, the unemployment rate for May was unchanged at 4.8%. This included an unchanged rate of 4.7% on Maui Island; and slightly improved rates of 8.3% on Molokai, and 1.9% on Lanai.
Wailuku FCU Breaks Ground on New Location
The Wailuku Federal Credit Union is the newest business to break ground at the Maui Lani Village Center. It will relocate to the new facility at Maui Lani upon completion, which is slated for March 2014.
Construction to Start on MEO Bus HQ on Puunene Ave.
The facility will be located alongside Puunene Avenue/Mokulele Highway in Kahului, next to the Sugar Museum and future “Puunene Shopping Center.”
Island Sole Brand Comes to Maui, Front Street
Footwear business Island Sole has officially opened its fifth store today, this time on Maui.
New Law to Help Hawaiʻi Honey Bee Industry
Governor Neil Abercrombie will sign legislation today in an effort to ensure the continued viability of the honeybee industry in the state.
“Next-Gen” Combat Boot Designed on Maui
A new type of combat boot designed by a Maui physician is claimed to be one of the first “energy positive shoes” that can also withstand up to 10 times the impact force of regular military boots.
Down to Earth Kahului Expands With Re-Opening Event
The expansion included a “major” renovation and a new total of 9,000 square feet of retail. Paula Fuga, Mike Love and Sam Gonsalves will perform at the event.
“Serino’s Kihei” at Azeka Mall in Soft Opening
The owners of Serino’s Pizza in Waikiki have commenced operations at their second location — this time it’s a bar/restaurant on Maui.
“Rita’s” Restaurant to Occupy Former Lulu’s Kihei Location
Goodbye Lulu; hello Rita — the year long vacancy is to end for the location that some blame as being the primary source of noise complaints for the Triangle.
Kamaʻāina Firms to Join Forces: A&B to Acquire Grace Pacific
Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. has entered into an agreement to acquire the privately held Grace Pacific Corporation for an estimated $235 million, according to a joint announcement from both companies yesterday.
Planning Department Moving to One Main Plaza
Maui’s Department of Planning’s Zoning Administration and Enforcement Division and the director’s administrative staff will be relocating from the Kalana Pakui building to One Main Plaza during the month of June.
Government Contracting Workshops at Maui Tech Park
On Wednesday, June 5, Maui small businesses will have the chance to speak to experts on government contracting at a free workshop.
Business Roundup: May 2013
This month’s column features a new Japanese restaurant in Haiku, business donations to non-profits, and several business anniversaries.
State Brings Energy Efficiency Financing Workshop to Maui
On Wednesday, June 21, the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism will be holding a free informative workshop discussing financing alternatives for energy efficiency projects.
“Gazebo” Owners Open Koa’s on Front Street
Koa’s Seaside Grill will host a grand opening celebration open to the public on Saturday, June 1 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at their new Front Street location.
Kihei Rent A Car Celebrates 23rd Anniversary with “Mahalo Celebration”
On Saturday, June 1, Kihei Rent A Car will celebrate its 23rd anniversary by hosting a “Mahalo Celebration” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their location on 96 Kio Loop in Kihei.
Luxury Hotel, Industrial Area Passes Lanai Committee
A new “ultra luxury” hotel along with 200 acres designated for industrial development were approved by the Lanai Community Plan Advisory Committee.
Drop in Cargo Volumes Suggests Cautious Local Businesses
A 3.9% drop in intrastate cargo shipments between Honolulu and the six neighbor island ports in the first quarter of 2013 indicates that local businesses are “still being cautious.”
Napili Plaza Sold to A&B for $19M
The Napili Plaza, a 46,000-square foot retail center between Kapalua and Kaanapali, has been sold to Alexander & Baldwin’s real estate subsidiary, A&B Properties, Inc. for $19 million.





