Business Wrap: Bar Expands in Kona and Hilo Gets a New Spa

As we head into the last quarter of 2012, unemployment figures are dropping and Big Island businesses are starting to hire for the upcoming holiday season (see the October 2 story about Macy’s hiring for the holidays).

While some long time businesses have closed (notably Ebesugawa Sisters mentioned in a recent business wrap), others are opening.

Unemployment Down Nationally and Locally

National unemployment data released today showed the national unemployment rate under 8% for the first time 44 months. The U.S. Labor Department announced today that the unemployment rate fell to 7.8% last month, a decrease that surprised economists. The national unemployment rate, which had dropped to 8.1% in August, had been expected to rise to 8.2% in September.

Here on the Big Island, new unemployment claims were down 21% compared to the same time last year. According to the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism there were 295 new filings for the week of September 29, 79 fewer than the 374 claims filed during the same week in 2011.

Natural Beauty Spa and Massage Grand Opening October 6

Natural Beauty Spa and Massage will celebrate its grand opening tomorrow, Saturday, October 6, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Hilo. The company is one of several to be opening at the newly built Manono Street Marketplace, which is located across Hinano Street from Big Island Candies.

The business features a variety of treatments, including massage, facials, waxing, nails, and hair salon services. The grand opening will include door prizes and giveaways.

Humpy’s Alehouse Celebrates Second Anniversary by Purchasing Lulu’s

The folks at Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse in Kailua-Kona have had reason to celebrate lately. The restaurant, which has another location in Alaska, celebrated its second anniversary last week.

Company officials announced that they have purchased nearby Lulu’s, which is also in the Coconut Grove Marketplace. According to Humpy’s management, they expect to keep everything the same at Lulu’s although they will change up the menu a bit. The expansion includes the addition of 40 employees.

Marriott Names Spurrier as Senior Sales Manager for Waikoloa Resort

Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa has named Samuel Spurrier as the senior sales manager for the resort. The Brigham Young University-Hawaii graduate will be responsible for east coast group sales for both the Waikoloa property and Wailea Beach Marriott Resort and Spa.

Undeveloped Resort Land for Sale in Waikoloa

And speaking of Waikoloa, a large parcel of undeveloped land recently hit the open market. The 252-acre lot of resort land is being sold for an undisclosed amount by Japan’s Daio Paper Corp. The company is being represented by three real estate firms, including Island Land Co. Inc. based in Kailua-Kona.