Business
Biz Wrap: Applegate Launches Tourism Consulting Firm
In business news this week, Big Island Visitors Bureau executive director George Applegate has formed his own tourism consulting business as he prepares to step down as helm of the Bureau.
Big Island Brewhaus Expanding its Distribution
Big Island Brewhaus, which operates a brewpub and Mexican restaurant in Waimea, is starting to bottle its own beer and expanding its distribution across the state.
Statewide Unemployment Dropped to 4.9% Last Month
State officials announced today that Hawaii’s unemployment rate has reached it lowest level in four-and-a-half years.
Kona Community Hospital Contracting Out Hospitalist Services
Kona Community Hospital has contracted its hospitalist services to a mainland firm in an effort to improve patient satisfaction and financial performance.
Zippy’s Hilo Hiring This Week
Zippy’s restaurant is recruiting this week for positions at its new Hilo location, slated to open this summer.
New CrossFit Gym Opens in Hilo
Big Island natives Tauren Ibarra and Genevieve Girdner recently moved back to Hawaii and launched CrossFit Hilo Iron Gym.
Pacific Wings Leaving Hawaii Next Month
Pacific Wings, which provides service to Kona and Waimea airports, will cease operations statewide by mid June.
Biz Wrap: New Boutique Opens in Hilo
In business news around the island this week, a new boutique opened in Hilo and a popular diner in Laupahoehoe is for sale.
State Economists Predict Growth in 2013-2014
State officials are predicting positive economic growth statewide. Locally, Hawai‘i Island has already received more than 400,000 visitors this year and unemployment is down to 7.3%.
Hawaiian Ukulele and Guitar Opens in Waikoloa
Hawaiian Ukulele and Guitar recently opened a second location on island in the Kings’ Shops at Waikoloa Beach Resort.
Chamber Seeks Nominations for Pualu Awards
May 24 is the deadline to submit nominations for the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce’s Pualu awards recognizing individuals and businesses that advance the west Hawaii community.
New Ag Courses offered at HCC
As part of a federal grant program to promote agricultural and energy industries, Hawaii Community College is offering new agricultural courses starting this month.
Matson Reports $9M Income in First Quarter 2013
Hawaii’s largest shipping company reported income of $9 million in the first quarter, more than double its earnings over first quarter 2012.
Isle Home Prices Up 35% Over 2012 Levels
The median price of Hawaii Island homes rose 35% last month compared to the same month last year, while median condo prices increased 26%.
Franchise Workshop This Friday in Kona
A free workshop on owning a franchise business will be held this Friday in Kona.
Biz Wrap: Local Chef Makes Forbes List
Island coffee companies and a local chef recently received national recognition. In other business news John Colson was selected as head of Hualalai Academy.
Starbucks Doubling Its Order for Ka‘u Coffee
Starbucks is doubling the number of its locations in the US and abroad that feature Ka’u coffee as part of its ultra premium reserve line.
Business Networking Events Across Island in May
Multiple business networking events will be held across the island this month by both the Kona-Kohala and Hawaii Island chamber of commerces.
Free Small Business Help Available May 2 and 16
The Business Action Center will be open tomorrow and May 16 in HIlo as part of the state’s outreach to assist Big Island residents with business registration related forms.
New Baby Specialty Boutique Opens In Hilo
Crib, a consignment and specialty gift boutique, recently opened in downtown Hilo.
