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

Newest eruption prompts temporary closure of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
Episode 44 of the ongoing eruption began at 11:10 a.m. Thursday, April 9.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 10, 2026

Honolulu named one of the best U.S. cities for coffee
Hawai‘i's capital city was ranked as part of Food & Wine's 2026 Global Tastemakers Awards.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 09, 2026

La Birria opens new brick-and-mortar restaurant
The eatery — known for its birria tacos — is opening its second storefront today in Pearl Kai Shopping Center. Its birria-centric menu includes queso birria tacos, birria ramen, and spicy hell fire tacos that feature a ghost pepper blend.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 08, 2026

Zippy's and Kahala unveil exclusive aloha shirt
Both companies will mark milestone anniversaries this year with a new aloha shirt collaboration.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 07, 2026

House of Mana Up now available on Instacart
Both House of Mana Up retail locations in South Shore Market and Royal Hawaiian Center now offer same-day delivery.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 07, 2026

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park readies for next eruptive episode
The U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcanic Observatory expects episode 44 to begin between April 6 and 14. The park says visitors should be prepared for tephra, volcanic gas and potential temporary closures.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 04, 2026

Hawaiian Electric bills expected to rise in the coming months
The utility has warned customers that bills are expected to increase by 20% to 30%, driven by rising global oil prices.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 04, 2026

Hawai‘i architects 'ready to assist' after storms
AIA Hawai‘i says architects can help property owners "understand the extent of damage, determine whether repairs are feasible, and ensure that any reconstruction meets current building codes and incorporates strategies to better withstand future climate-related events."
Stephanie SalmonsApril 03, 2026

CIM funds scholarships for construction students at UH Maui College
The Construction Industry of Maui has donated $44,000 to the school, which will provide 12 scholarships for students enrolled in its construction vocational program. Meanwhile, the deadline is approaching for another scholarship opportunity.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 02, 2026

Kona low storms slow business on North Shore
Poke for the People has been giving away meals to community members impacted by the floods as well as the volunteers helping them rebuild. But this week, the eatery cut its hours in half due to a decrease in sales. In Haleʻiwa, spring break for Mainland schools doesn’t look quite the same as it has in prior years, according to the shop's owner.
Katie HellandApril 02, 2026

Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines approaching the next milestone in their combination
Changes leading up to the launch of a shared passenger service system include the launch of a single app for both airlines.
Stephanie SalmonsMarch 31, 2026

ʻThe Book of Mormonʻ and more headed for Honolulu
The Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall will be alive with music from Broadway in Hawaiʻi in 2026 and 2027. The group has announced its next season, and tickets are now available.
Katie HellandMarch 30, 2026