Business
Economic impact of U.S. military in Hawai‘i detailed in new factbook
The factbook is designed for residents, policymakers and business leaders; it includes easy-to-read charts and explanations covering personnel spending, contracting, federal assistance, community programs and the broader economic effects of defense activity throughout all islands.
22-year-old business reopens after devastating fire with help from Hilo Elks Lodge
With the quick, unexpected support of the Hilo Elks Lodge, Olena’s Massage Center was able to reopen one month after a fire destroyed their downtown business last November.
Goodwill Hawaiʻi offers better access to retail store, donation center at new Hilo campus
The move marks the second phase of Goodwill Hawaiʻi’s long-term plan to consolidate its retail business and human services programs at one location to better serve the East Hawaiʻi community.
Small businesses interested in working with government invited to attend free workshops
There will be 6 workshops total statewide, and they begin Feb. 24 on Oʻahu; Big Island classes are March 4 and 12, with the Kauaʻi workshop slated for April 1.
‘Where Talent Meets Opportunity’: Hawai’i County and partners to host hiring event
Big Island residents are invited Feb. 21 to Prince Kūhiō Plaza in Hilo for the chance to connect with top employers, grow their professional network, access education and training resources and more.
Business Monday: Grace Flowers Hawaiʻi ready for busy week before Valentine’s Day
With the Feb. 14 holiday for sweethearts on the horizon, Alison Higgins of Grace Flowers Hawaiʻi is readying her Honokaʻa shop for a surge in last-minute floral orders for family members, spouses, friends and sweethearts.
Alaska Airlines flight diverted back to Anchorage, Alaska, while on its way to Big Island
Alaska Flight 255 left at just before 3 p.m. Thursday (Feb. 5) from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and was back in Alaska within just about 5.5 hours after pilots declared emergency and decided to turn around because of a reported maintenance issue.
West Hawai‘i Region of Hawai‘i Health Systems Corporation to celebrate opening of new infusion center on Big Island
The expanded center will double the hospital’s treatment capacity from 6 to 12 chairs and significantly enhance patient privacy, safety and comfort, with additional features such as privacy barriers, negative-pressure isolation room for higher‑risk patients, dedicated waiting area for families and more.
Goodwill Hawai‘i relocating Hilo store, donation center to new campus
Grand opening set for Feb. 13 at new location on the Maka‘ala Street campus, with festivities including giveaways, refreshments and entertainment; current store location will remain open through Feb. 7.
New Alaska Airlines state-of-the-art global training center officially opens its doors
New $200 million, 660,000-square-foot facility brings training for multiple workgroups under one roof and strengthens the airline’s transformation into the country’s fourth global airline.
Big Island Hele stations once again want to ‘Fuel the Future’ with 3rd annual fundraiser
Money raised through the annual event will again go to Public Schools of Hawai‘i Foundation, benefiting public school teachers throughout the state with grants so they can implement new, innovative programs for their students.
Possible contamination causes Gerber Products Co. to recall keiki biscuits
The product was distributed nationwide, including by retailers such as Walmart, Target and Longs Drugs in Hawai‘i; recall was issued because the biscuits might have soft plastic and/or paper pieces inside that could cause injury or pose a choking hazard.
Unemployment rate remains steady at 2.2% in December 2025 for Hawai‘i
The number of nonfarm jobs available throughout the state also increased by 7,400 from December 2024 to December 2025.
Major change takes off: Southwest rolls out assigned seating in Honolulu, more
Assigned seating went live Tuesday (Jan. 27) in Honolulu and throughout Southwest’s network, opening the book to the airline’s next chapter; the change followed the final Southwest open seating flight from Honolulu and a gate celebration the night before.
Grand opening of Zippy’s 4th Las Vegas branch showcases Hawaiian traditions, spirit
The grand opening in Las Vegas featured a traditional Hawaiian blessing and the ceremonial untying of a maile lei by Zippy’s Chief Executive Officer Jason Higa.
Business Monday: Shop local at new Farmstand on Saturdays in Waikōloa Village
Organized by the local nonprofit Waikōloa Grows, members of the group organized the weekly Farmstand, where shoppers can find fresh, locally sourced food from farmers around the island.
New artificial intelligence degree debuts later this year at University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
The new degree and its courses reflect the College of Business and Economics response to workforce demand for artificial intelligence and analytics skills, and University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo’s broader commitment to interdisciplinary education and responsible artificial intelligence development.
University of Hawaiʻi’s School of Travel Industry Management celebrates 60th anniversary
In 1966, the UH at Mānoa began a pioneering program that turned into a school that is an internationally respected leader in hospitality, tourism and transportation education.
Business Monday: The Booch Bar expands with new live music venue in downtown Hilo
Jahred Darius, a musician with PunaKat and an experienced sound engineer and talent booker, is managing the new music venue called the Rainbow Room.
Hawai‘i Primary Care Association names new CEO to strengthen healthcare access statewide
Emily Chung — who assumed her new role Jan. 5 — has more than 2 decades of public health leadership experience as well as a proven track record in advancing community well-being; she brings expertise and vision to the association’s mission.
