Business Wrap: New Names, Locations, and Contracts

The Big Island business week started off on a strong note this week with Hawaii Information Service releasing data showing that the price of single family homes rose 13 last month compared to the same month last year.

On a sadder note, for the second time in less than a month, it was announced that a Hilo landmark in business for more than eight decades was closing. Koehnen’s Interiors revealed it plans to shut its doors on Dec. 15 after 83 years in business.

Baker Tom’s to Reopen at New Location

Last month we reported that Baker Tom’s closed in Papikou due to a rent increase. Seems the bakery, which is widely-known for its malasadas and cheesecakes, has found a new location. Baker Tom will set up shop in the building in front of Uncle Billy’s Hotel on Banyan Drive in Hilo. No word yet on an opening date.

Environet Wins Two Federal Contracts Totaling $14.4M

In recent weeks Waimea-based Environet was awarded two separate contracts totaling $14.4 million for two different projects on Oahu. Environet’s beat out six competitors to receive the Department of Defense contracts.

The first contract, which is for $6.9 million, is for the renovation of the Kunia Tunnel at Wheeler Army Air Field in Central Oahu. The second contract, valued at $7.5 million, is for the construction of a new ground control tower at the Marine Corps Reserve Center at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay.

Changes Coming to Hawaii’s Biggest Mac Nut Orchard Owner

Changes are in store for the state’s largest macadamia nut grower. Hilo-based ML Macadamia Orchards LP is changing its name to Royal Hawaiian Orchards. The company plans to launch a new retail product line under the new name within the next month.

Founded in 1986, ML Macadamia Orchards owns or leases 5,070 tree acres within a 50-mile radius on the Big Island and performs farming services for other orchard owners on an additional 1,100 acres.

The company also has a new majority shareholder with Wyoming-based Crescent River LLC buying more than 50 percent of outstanding limited partnership shares in the company.