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

Maui architect seeking national AIA leadership role
David Sellers, principal and co-founder of Maui-based Hawai‘i Off Grid, is running for 2027 president-elect of the national design organization. The election takes place this month.
Stephanie SalmonsJune 06, 2026

OluKai collaborates with Jason and Travis Kelce
The Island-inspired footwear company is partnering with New Heights from Super Bowl Champions Jason and Travis Kelce on a new men’s sandal, which releases just before Father’s Day.
Katie HellandJune 05, 2026

What to expect at Kaua‘i Poke Fest
The sixth annual culinary event is set for June 19 and 20 at Kōloa Landing Resort at Poʻipū, Autograph Collection.
Stephanie SalmonsJune 02, 2026

UPDATE: Kīlauea's latest eruptive episode ends after 9 hours
Episode 48 of the ongoing eruption began before sunrise Monday.
Stephanie SalmonsJune 01, 2026

Servco Pacific unveils exclusive Hawai‘i edition Toyota Tacoma
The Tacoma has been Hawai‘i's top-selling vehicle for 25 years.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 30, 2026

Cat Café Maui nominated for 10Best list
Several other Hawai‘i businesses are also up for spots on various other 10Best lists.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 29, 2026

Hawaiian Airlines moving to pre-paid meals in main cabin for most Mainland flights
Travelers will be able to pre-order from a menu curated by Maui-based chef Sheldon Simeon starting July 1.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 29, 2026

Kimberly Agas promoted to new leadership role at Aulani
Agas, who has been general manager of the Disney resort in Ko Olina for the past decade, is now executive director, a newly created position.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 28, 2026

Hilton Grand Vacations, Honolulu Habitat work to finish Waimānalo home
Mitch Yokoyama, general manager of Hokulani Waikīkī, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, reflects on the rewards of volunteering with HGV Serves, a corporate social responsibility program with several community partners, including Habitat for Humanity International. Yokoyama and colleagues recently joined Honolulu Habitat on a home build project in Waimānalo. Aloha State Daily also checked in with two Honolulu Habitat employees — Shana and Feta Petelo, the mother-daughter team that works directly with local families and volunteers.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 28, 2026

West O‘ahu redevelopment breaks ground
A blessing ceremony was held Thursday for the redevelopment of the former Paradise Cove Lū‘au site near Ko Olina.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 27, 2026

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue continues Mainland expansion
The Hawai‘i-based restaurant chain has recently opened new locations in Washington and California.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 25, 2026

Honolulu launches AI training program for O‘ahu businesses, nonprofits
The city's Office of Economic Revitalization, in partnership with Māpunawai and Skilled Tomorrow, is set to launch "AI for Everyone at Work: Training Trainers to Teach Across Generations." The program aims to help organizations on the island introduce artificial intelligence "in practical, responsible and accessible ways for a multigenerational workforce."
Stephanie SalmonsMay 23, 2026