Business & Tourism
Hawai‘i’s economy, in all its complexities.
What do we talk about when we talk about ‘the economy’ in the Islands? We talk about the cost of living, the cost of doing business, what it takes to make Hawai‘i a place where people can succeed, where they can build a career or a business and afford to raise a family. We cover such issues as Hawai‘i’s efforts to maintain a strong, sustainable tourism industry, but also its attempts diversify the economy. We look at everything from small business success stories to major players such as Hawaiian Airlines and the hotel industry.
News

Paradise Cove Lū‘au to close
After 47 years in Ko Olina, the West O‘ahu attraction will close next month, allowing a planned redevelopment of the 10.9-acre oceanfront property to proceed next year. Aloha State Daily recently spoke with Liu Taufa, an entertainer who has worked at the lū‘au for 35 years about its closure and what working there has meant to her.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 25, 2025

New collab between Zippy's and NOHO HOME Hawai‘i available Nov. 28
The two local businesses will release a capsule collection of four items, “aimed to capture the deep-rooted tradition of pilina — connection,” Zippy's said Friday.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 22, 2025

New survey says more people are considering leaving Hawai‘i
Honolulu-based nonprofit Holomua Collective — which works to make Hawai‘i more affordable for working families — recently released the results of its second annual Hawai‘i Affordability Survey.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 21, 2025

Honolulu startup aims to make finding the right Realtor easier
A new platform called Tochigami helps pair homebuyers and real estate agents through dating app-style matching.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 20, 2025

Young Brothers' rates to increase by more than 25%
State Public Utilities Commission approves 25.75% rate increase amid freight company's financial woes.
Michael BrestovanskyNovember 18, 2025

Zippy's to open two new locations in Las Vegas
The restaurant chain currently has 25 locations, including three Las Vegas — its only locations on the Mainland.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 15, 2025

Survey available for business owners
The Federal Reserve's 2025 Small Business Credit Survey is now open for Hawai‘i small businesses to weigh in on their borrowing preferences and financial outlook.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 14, 2025

Honolulu, Roberts Hawai‘i aim to improve access to Hanauma Bay
A new contract between the city and Roberts Hawai‘i packages transportation to and from the popular snorkel spot, entry and an educational video.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 12, 2025

Kamehameha Schools sells land under Royal Hawaiian for $510M
Japan-based Daisho Co. is now the fee-simple owner. The property, however, will continue to be held and operated under its current long-term ground lease to Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts, KS says.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 11, 2025

Meet the new president of HBM
Born and raised in Hawai‘i, Ron Porter was recently named president of Hawaiian Building Maintenance. With a background in economics, finance and business operations, he shares immediate priorities for the more than 60-year-old commercial facility maintenance company.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosNovember 10, 2025

Hawai‘i entrepreneurs on display at annual Mana Up event
The Mana Up Showcase is an annual event that spotlights the Hawai‘i-based companies that have gone through the accelerator program.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 08, 2025

Darren Strand leading Maui Land & Pineapple's new agave venture
The longtime ag leader will oversee agricultural strategy and operations, implement sustainable growing practices and help guide the farm's continued growth, MLP says.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 07, 2025