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Hawaii
Retail Grocer
SPRING 2020
the magazine of the hawaii food industry association
Inside:
What Does Bill 40
Mean For You
Our Annual
The
Social Event
January’s
Legislative
‘Talk
Future
Story’
of
Update:
French
Wine
Food
Tariffs A look at
companies
likely to define
and shape
the future
of the food
industry
PERMIT NO. 583
HONOLULU, HI
PAID
U.S. POSTAGE
PRSRT STD
Serving Hawaii Is Our Business Pasha Hawaii’s dynamic shipping network and knowledgeable professionals are here to serve your supply chain needs. Pasha offers the broadest range of container and roll-on/roll-off services between Hawaii and the Mainland, with connections to comprehensive intermodal services nationwide. Find out more at pashahawaii.com.
Serving Aloha Since 1916
As Hawai‘i’s locally owned and operated
grocery store, we strive to make you
feel like someone special every day.
KTA Downtown, Hilo KTA Puainako, Hilo KTA Waikoloa Village
321 Keawe Street 50 East Puainako Street Waikoloa Highlands Center
808-935-3751 808-959-9111 808-883-1088
KTA Waimea KTA Keauhou, Kona KTA Kailua-Kona KTA Express, Kealakekua
Waimea Center Keauhou Shopping Ctr. Kona Coast Shopping Ctr. 81-6602 Hawaii Belt Road
808-885-8866 808-322-2311 808-329-1677 808-323-1916
www.ktasuperstores.com
CONTENTS
22 Hawaii Retail Grocer is a quarterly
publication of the Hawaii Food
12
Industry Association
Publisher
Lauren Zirbel
Editor
Meghan Thibault
Writers
Meghan Thibault
Lauren Zirbel
Desirée Rose
Alexis Chapman
Keith DeMello
Design
18
Dustin Koda
Photography Courtesy of
Mahi Pono
Advertising
Jennifer Dorman
Charlene Gray
David Kanyuck
Barry Redmayne
Printer
Trade Publishing
Hawaii
Retail Grocer
SPRING 2020
the magazine of the hawaii food industry association
Inside:
What Does Bill 40
Mean For You
Our Annual
Social Event
January’s The
Future
Legislative
‘Talk
Story’
of
Update:
French
Wine
Food
Tariffs A look at
companies
likely to define
and shape the
DEPARTMENTS
future of the
food industry
PERMIT NO. 583
HONOLULU, HI
PAID
U.S. POSTAGE
Legislative Update.................................................................................. 6
PRSRT STD
Chair’s Message ...................................................................................... 9 Cover Image by Mahi Pono
New Products ....................................................................................... 12 All editorial content ©2020 by the Hawaii
Food Industry Association.
Legislative Talk Story ............................................................................ 14 No part of this publication may be
reproduced without prior approval
Member News ...................................................................................... 29 of the publisher.
The Last Word ...................................................................................... 34
FEATURES
French Wine Tariffs .............................................................................. 16
2020 HFIA Event Calendar ................................................................... 17
Please address all correspondence to:
The Future of Food ............................................................................... 18
1050 Bishop St., PMB 235
HFIA Annual Social ............................................................................... 22 Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
What Bill 40 Means For Your Business.................................................. 26 Phone: 808-533-1292
www.hawaiifood.com
4 | HAWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020
More locally
produced food,
renewable energy,
clean transportation
and fresh water.
Stronger resilience
and self-sufficiency.
A better way of life.
Ulupono Initiative
Investing in a Sustainable Hawai‘i
Anoano Farms,
Hawai‘i Island
See more examples
of our commitment
to sustainability at
ulupono.com
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
The Economic
Impact
Statement Act
HFIA is in strong support of this
measure. Economic impact state-
ments would provide an approxi-
mation of the costs and benefits at-
tributable to any change in the law
before the passage of a given bill,
effectively laying out the impact on
private organizations and individuals
in the state. SB3163 to mandate eco-
BY LAUREN ZIRBEL
Minimum nomic impact statements recently
passed its first hearing.
Wage Increases
2020 at the State
One of our top priorities is to lessen Reducing Taxes
on Food and
the burden of grocery taxes on all Ha-
Legislature waii customers, especially those with
HFIA began actively engaged with
limited income. We’re supporting
measures to increase the Refundable Beverages
legislators long before the start of the Food/Excise Tax Credit from $110 Taxing groceries is the most regres-
2020 legislative session. We’ve been to $150, as well as other changes to sive way to tax! Thirty-six states do
talking about our priority issues and make the credit more accessible and not tax groceries. Seven states have
making sure Hawaii’s senators and more meaningful to those in need. a lower tax for groceries. It would
representatives understand how is- We know our members are proud be a great benefit to all residents of
sues like wage increases and overreg- to pay fair wages, in addition to pro- Hawaii, in particular those in the
ulation make it harder for the food viding their team members with lower income brackets, for the state
industry to serve our communities. benefits like health care. We are not to exempt food and medical services
We’re also very pleased to be sup- opposed to a reasonable increase in from the GET. Hawaii residents al-
porting a range of favorable legisla- the minimum wage to $13 per hour ready struggle with some of the
tion this year. by 2024. We are in strong support highest costs of living in the country.
of addressing cost of living increases We believe changes to the Food/ Ex-
Joint House, also addressed in this package, in-
cluding universal pre-k and affordable
cise Tax Credit have a high chance
of success in the immediate future,
Senate, housing.
This compromise package will help
so we’ll be advocating for both ap-
proaches to reduce this burden.
Administration ensure that local businesses have time
Economic to prepare and adjust to minimum
wage increases. Passage of a balanced
Family Leave
Package package such as this one doesn’t
unduly punish small businesses, as
The Family Leave study was re-
leased late last year, but several leg-
HFIA is supporting several key com- a more aggressive wage mandate islators have noted that the study is
ponents of this proposed package to would, and takes into account the somewhat incomplete. We’ve also
ensure we get the best positive out- cost of living issues that drive pover- noticed that the research was com-
comes for HFIAmembers and avoid ty. We continue to highlight existing pleted from a perspective of how to
potentially damaging mandates. employee benefits and protections create a family leave program, not
paid for by employers, such as health whether to create a family leave pro-
insurance and temporary disability gram. It recommends that any pro-
Working-Class insurance, and to encourage legisla-
tors to consider these when drawing
gram have an implementation time-
line of at least two, but preferably
Tax Relief and up any new legislation. three years.
Two bills have already been heard
Reasonable that would provide family leave in-
6 | HAWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020 CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
surance benefits and extend periods
of family leave to sixteen weeks for Manufacturing, Bottles
businesses that employ one or more
employees who meet the hourly Buying, and HFIA supports efforts to fix the de-
qualifications. HFIA has testified in
opposition to House Bill 2219, which
GrowingLocal Food posit beverage program, and we op-
pose measures that would make the
was deferred. HFIA also opposed Legislation, and in particular tax cred- program more expensive for custom-
Senate Bill 2491; however, this bill its to help local manufacturing and ers or businesses without fixing the
passed its first committee. local agriculture will benefit Hawaii. long-running issues.
We’re supporting manufacturing tax We’ve testified in opposition to
Workforce Training credits that will help grow and diver-
sify our economy, keep more dollars
HB2025 and SB2726, which would
increase the administrative fee for the
Our number one complaint from in state, decrease our dependence on deposit beverage program in accor-
members is the lack of qualified can- imports, and develop and strengthen dance with CPI. These beverage fee in-
didates for hire. We’re pleased to be the Made in Hawaii brand. crease bills have passed their first com-
backing a wide range of bills to create HFIA supports HB2080 to create mittees. We’re also opposing SB2720,
employee training programs and im- an income tax credit for Hawaii man- which would prevent the state from
prove workforce readiness. ufacturers, and SB3090 to establish an buying beverages in plastic bottles. We
HB1915, HB2092, SB2065, and agricultural production tax credit will oppose SB2727, which would change
SB2259 create a workforce readiness both have their first hearings shortly. the exemption distance for a beverage
programs in the Department of Edu- We’re also supporting a range of dealer in a high-density area from two
cation. SB2073 would establish a ca- measures to provide manufacturing miles from a redemption center to one
reer pipeline initiative. HB2508 and and other grants through the Ha- mile. This bill has also passed one com-
SB3013 incentivize public high schools waii Technology Development Cor- mittee as of this writing.
to encourage students to obtain indus- poration.
try-recognized certifications. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
FEATURED SPEAKER
AARON DALY
Whole Foods Market
Former Global Director
of Energy Management
GRAB YOUR OPERATING
COSTS BY THE HORNS
Hear from industry leaders about strategies to save money on
lighting, HVAC, and other building operating costs and connect
with contractors to make it a reality.
APRIL 29, 2020 | SHERATON WAIKIKI
REGISTER FOR YOUR SPOT AT
HAWAIIENERGY.COM/SYMPOSIUM
H AWA IIF OOD . COM | 7
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7
than zinc and titanium dioxide. HFIA is
opposing these measures based on the
lack of scientific rationale for the bans,
Flavored Tobacco
HFIA has testified on many of these and the need for functional skin cancer
measures, asking for a more reasonable prevention products. We also believe
Products approach. that these measures encourage consum-
ers to buy sunscreen online, where it
Additional
Flavored cartridge vape products were will be nearly impossible to enforce this
recently banned at the federal level, legislation.
and the national tobacco age has been
Sunscreen Bans
changed to 21. There are concerted ef-
forts this year to ban flavored tobacco There are several bills this year aimed at
CBD
products in Hawaii, including menthol. banning all sunscreen ingredients other We are in support of legislation to end
confusion about these products. We
support SB2050 to establish a regu-
latory framework for products con-
taining CBD and SB2274 to regulate
cannabidiol under the Department of
Health.
Food Donation
We support HB2234 to allow for the
good faith donation of expired food,
which has passed one committee thus
far. HFIA also supports HB2706, which
requires the Department of Health to
promote food donation during normal,
routine inspections of food establish-
ments and expands liability protection
for the donation of food.
Green Incentives
Incentives are a powerful tool for
positive change. Our businesses are
already leaders in creating more sus-
tainable practices in our industry.
We’re in support of several measures
that can help companies be more
environmentally conscientious.
HFIA is supporting SB2548 to
create a marine debris recycling pi-
lot program. We’re also supporting
calls to increase the fine for littering
in SB2051.
Plastic Bans
There are several bills and resolutions
on banning certain types of plastic
statewide. HFIA is actively partici-
pating in the still operational Plastic
Working Group created by the legis-
lature last year. We’re advocating for
the legislature to allow the Task Force
time to do its work, and not to pass
any new legislation this year.
Unfortunately, the County of Maui
is not waiting for the completion of
the working group and has already
8 | HAWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020
introduced its own version of Bill 40. CHAIR’S MESSAGE
Theft Country Club soon follows on
As most of our businesses know, April 3, 2020, with the HFIA An-
theft is an increasing problem in our nual Convention slated for June
state. HFIA has opposed SB2591 to 5 & 6 at the Aulani Disney Resort
prohibit courts from requiring a & Spa. I hope to see all of you at
monetary bail as a condition for re- these events.
lease when a person is charged with
My thanks to everyone who
a petty misdemeanor. This measure
was deferred after its first hearing. attended Carter’s Triple Crown
We encourage all members to Happy New Year HFIA Team, in January, a sold out event with
check our Weekly Updates for cur- amazing games and cocktails. A
rent information on HFIA priority I look forward to a successful big mahalo to the planning com-
bills. We also invite interested mem-
bers to sign up for the Government
2020 ahead as we build on positive mittee for their hard work. Un-
momentum with new and long- fortunately my horse didn’t win
Relations Committee to help de- the first leg of the race, but it was
termine our association’s position time members. Our voices are
much stronger together. FUN. Mahalo to all of our mem-
as we move through the legislative
session. In February, we’ve planned bers for making HFIA a success.
Most importantly, we ask that all our Pau Hana with Legislators, Cheers to 2020!
members respond to Action Alerts. a networking mixer at Hukilau, Aloha,
We are very proud to be the voice of Joe Carter
followed by the HFIA general
Hawaii’s food and beverage industry,
membership meeting on March VP-GM Coca-Cola Bottling
and at times we need that voice am-
plified by all of you to ensure our leg- 26, 2020. Our 27th Annual Golf of Hawaii
islators hear us loud and clear. Tournament at the Honolulu The Odom Corporation
H AWA IIF OOD . COM | 9
2020 NGA UPDATE CBD
CBD products are available in a vari-
ety of forms. They are being sold in
nearly every retail format, including
independent grocery stores, but a
lack of clarity regarding CBD reg-
ulations is a significant source of
concern for our members. The 2018
Farm Bill allowed for the commercial
production of hemp and removed
CBD from the Controlled Substanc-
es Act; however, FDA maintains that
ingestible CBD products are illegal
under the Food, Drug, and Cosmet-
ic Act. NGA continues to urge FDA
to take steps to establish a clear reg-
ulatory framework in which CBD is
distinguished as a dietary supple-
ment and food additive rather than
a human drug under FDA’s Section
505 regulations requiring clinical
BY THE NATIONAL suit against the USDA challenging trials before going to market.
GROCERS ASSOCIATION
this rule. In January, the U.S. House
Impeachment and the 2020 presiden-
of Representatives filed an amicus
brief to the lawsuit, arguing that the Taxes
tial election captured headlines this final rule is contrary to SNAP, con- Unfortunately, the end of the year
winter, drawing attention away from strains historical state discretion, and spending package failed to resolve
issues impacting independent retail- would cause irreparable harm to the a drafting error in the Tax Cuts and
ers and wholesalers. However, NGA program. The House also argued that Jobs Act (TCJA) known as the “retail
continues its work behind the scenes a bipartisan Congress rejected simi- glitch” that prevents retailers from
to score wins that will benefit Main lar attempts to restrict work require- being eligible for full and immediate
Street grocers. Below are an update ments in the 2018 Farm Bill. expensing for interior remodels to
and outlook on critical legislative is- stores. NGA is pushing Congress to
sues to the supermarket industry. find a solution in 2020.
Drug Pricing NGA advocated for two items that
SNAP Work and DIR Fees were included in the end of the year
spending deal: The Work Opportu-
Requirements Congressional leaders purposefully
set a May deadline to extend fund-
nity Tax Credit (WOTC) and New
Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) that
The U.S. Department of Agriculture ing for a list of popular federal health were set to expire at the end of 2019.
(USDA) recently finalized a rule to programs to give lawmakers a vehicle Both were extended to December
remove SNAP benefits to roughly to pass major health legislation, like 31, 2020.
700,000 “able-bodied adults without a fix for surprise medical billing and
dependents” (ABAWDS) after three
months if they cannot find employ-
to address drug pricing. Lawmakers
came close late last year to passing a Transportation
ment. Before the changes, ABAWDS package of health provisions that in- Although last year’s effort failed,
who lived in high-unemployment cluded a ban on balance billing, the Speaker Pelosi is renewing a push
areas were frequently given waivers practice of sending patients bills for for a $1 trillion infrastructure bill.
to bypass the three-month time lim- services insurers won’t cover and House Democrats are hopeful that
it. The new rule requires people be- other provisions aimed at reducing a new, wide-ranging proposal has a
tween the ages of 18 and 49 who are surprise medical bills, until leaders of better chance of reaching bipartisan
childless and not disabled to work at the House Ways and Means Commit- support. The bill includes measures
least 20 hours a week for more than tee stepped in to ask for more time to that are usually considered sepa-
three months over a 36-month pe- debate the bill. NGA is working with rately, such as broadband, pipe-
riod to qualify for food stamps. The a coalition of pharmacy groups to lines, schools, housing, and parks.
rule is set to go into effect on April 1. urge Congress to include reforms to The deadline to reauthorize surface
Shortly following the finalized rule, DIR fees and pharmacy quality mea- transportation programs is Septem-
Attorneys General in 15 states and sures in a healthcare package before ber 30, 2020.
the District of Columbia filed a law- the November elections.
1 0 | H AWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020Changes to SNAP SNAP is considered a very low-cost
high benefit government program, so Categorical
Recent changes to the Supplemen-
tal Nutrition Assistance Program
the tendency has been to err on the
side of providing the benefit rather
Eligibility
(SNAP), formerly called food stamps, than withholding it. Applicants liv- In July, 2019, the USDA announced
will make it harder for many individ- ing in areas with few available jobs or a proposal to change the categorical
uals to access SNAP benefits. Here’s without available spaces in training eligibility rule. Under the existing
why. programs were able to continue to rule, households that receive Tem-
porary Assistance for Needy Families
(TANF) benefits are automatically
FDA maintains that eligible to also receive SNAP bene-
fits, even if they don’t meet all the re-
ingestible CBD products quirements for SNAP.
The new rule would eliminate this
automatic categorical eligibility. Com-
are illegal under the Food, ments were open on the rule change
through November, 2019. The USDA
Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
has not yet confirmed adoption of the
new rule. If adopted, it is estimated
that up to 3 million people nationwide
would lose benefits. It would also have
receive needed SNAP benefits. big impacts for school lunch programs.
Waiver Restrictions The new work requirements, as
described by the NGA (at left), will For more information on these
Since 1996, states have had broad set tighter limits on the requirements issues and how you can make your
leeway to grant waivers for work re- states need to meet in order to grant voice heard in Washington, DC,
quirements, allowing beneficiaries such waivers. The number of Hawaii visit www.grocerstakeaction.org.
to continue to receive SNAP bene- SNAP users who will be impacted are
fits beyond three months. Overall, not currently available.
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H AWA IIF OOD . C O M | 11NEW PRODUCTS
Espresso Bites dients. Each bar is loaded with three Hawaiian Host
Big Island Coffee
shots of espresso and contains 140
mg of caffeine. Espresso Bites are Hawaiian Host unveils its latest con-
Roasters vegan and gluten-free.
The new, lighter Latte flavor is
fection with a new line of panned
chocolates. Taking its cue from the
Big Island Coffee Roasters has an made with Maui coffee and organ- traditional style of chocolate-mak-
award-winning and convenient new ic milk from Humboldt creamery. ing known as panning, the sumptu-
way of enjoying Hawaiian coffee. It is low in sugar, gluten-free, and ous selection of macadamia nuts
The locally loved brand won $25,000 contains two shots are coated using an arti-
in Hawaii’s HI Plan competition to of espresso or sanal method. Layer by
create a more convenient, scalable 94 mg of natural delicious layer, mac nuts
and giftable Hawaii-grown coffee caffeine. You can are enveloped in choco-
product. The result? Espresso Bites. enjoy them by the late and other premium
Although Espresso Bites look and bite, melt them in ingredients in a tumbling
taste like chocolate, they contain hot water or milk coating pan in order to
no chocolate at all. Instead, these to drink as a deli- create a multi-textured
smooth, creamy and delicious bars cious alternative to indulgence.
are made from 100% Hawaiian cof- instant coffee, or use Think but-
fees from the Big Island and Maui them as ice cream tery macada-
and include natural, organic ingre- toppings. Espresso mias coated
bites are easy to carry and and covered
perfect for gifting. The new in creamy
Latte flavor is available milk choco-
along with Classic and Sea late, rich dark
Salt flavors. chocolate, sea
Recently listed in Forbes magazine salt, Kona coffee, toasted coconut
as the Best Coffee Roasters in the and the ever-popular matcha — this is
USA, the company’s latest offering just a sampling of what to expect from
was selected by AllRecipes.com as Hawaiian Host’s panned line. Twen-
their #2 Best Gift for Coffee Lovers ty-ounce matcha bags are now avail-
able at club stores, while the rest of the
line is slated to launch at other retail
outlets in April.
1 2 | H AWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020(of sorts) of locally-made products Hawaiian Honey Furikake Puffs, as
to enjoy 2020. Through initiatives well as Aloha Tofu Factory’s Firm
like the HFIA’s annual Made in Ha- Tofu, Soft Tofu, and Deep-Fried Tofu
waii Festival and this guidebook, we are all available at Foodland Super-
hope to entice readers to choose lo- markets, Safeway, and Times Super-
cal when they shop. market.
HFMA represents approximate- Koloa Rum Company’s Koloa
ly 150 local members and has been Pineapple Passion Cocktail, Koloa
promoting Hawaii-grown or -manu- Kauai Dark Rum, and Koloa Kauai
factured products since 1977. Many Coconut Rum can each be found at
HFIA members are featured in the ABC Stores, Safeway, and Foodland
guidebook, designed to increase ap- Supermarkets.
preciation and understanding of the “Buying local is really about the
unique flavors, quality, and care that essence of Hawaii and sharing the
go into the production of Hawaii’s Aloha Spirit,” the guidebook states.
fine foods and beverages. “Made in Hawaii means a product
HFIA member Diamond Bakery is authentic in terms of origin, about
NEW Co., Ltd. is home to its Original Soda the people who helped make it, and
GUIDEBOOK Crackers, Original Royal Cream
Crackers, and Hawaiian Shortbread
the intrinsic value knowing a prod-
uct is true to its location.”
FEATURES Cookies. The guidebook provides
recommendations for how best to
The guidebooks are available for
purchase from the following factory
HAWAII-MADE enjoy these favorites, such as with retail operations:
PRODUCTS
peanut butter and guava jelly as part
of a local-style breakfast, or ingredi-
ents for a fancy feast like a Roasted
BY KEITH DEMELLO OF Kabocha Squash soup.
ULUPONO INITIATIVE
Other featured products include
Hawaiian Pie Company’s fruit pies
Tempting local palates and thwart- and full-size 9-inch deep-dish pies,
ing many well-intentioned New Year available in Foodland, Safeway, and
resolution diets is the newly pub- Waianae Store. Or try Tamura’s Su-
lished Foods of Hawaii, a Unique per Market to find Taro Brand’s Poi,
Food Guide for Hawaii crafted Bean Sprouts, and Just Enough Grab
products, gifts, tours, and more! and Go Fruits and Vegetables.
Published by the Hawaii Food Man- La Tour Bakehouse’s Organic
ufacturers Association (HFMA), the 100% Sprouted Multigrain Bread,
guidebook provides an official list Japanese Style Bread, and Organic
H AWA IIF OOD . C O M | 13LEGISLATIVE TALK STORY sion. Johanson understands the neg-
ative impacts that extreme jumps in
the minimum wage can trigger and
On January 8, 2020, HFIA members Victor Lim, the need to ensure that any increase
and legislative leaders gathered at McDonald’s of Hawaii franchisee is incremental and reasonable.
the Capitol for HFIA’s annual Leg- Johanson also recognized Hawaii
islative Talk Story, presented in part- Gary Yoshioka, President, Diamond employers’ sizable responsibility for
nership with the Hawaii Restaurant Bakery providing health insurance to work-
Association. The panel was moder- ers, making that an essential part of
ated again this year by Derek Kurisu The panel this year focused on some any discussion about wages, leave,
of KTA Superstores. of the unique challenges that Ha- and other labor issues.
waii businesses face and how the Vice Speaker Nakashima brought
Our panelists included: business community and legislative the issue of homelessness in Hawaii,
leaders hope to work together to speaking frankly to the point that
Representative Aaron Ling Johanson, find solutions. many people feel the homeless crisis
Chair of the House Committee Chair Johanson opened the dis- appears to be improving. Nakashi-
on Labor and Public Employment cussion with the impacts of labor ma stressed the need to seek and ex-
issues in Hawaii. Local and national periment with new solutions.
Vice Speaker Mark Nakashima pressure to increase the minimum Local food independence through
wage to as much as $17 per hour locally-sourced agriculture was an-
Joe Carter, VP & General Manager, has been on the minds of members other topic of discussion, as was
Coca-Cola Bottling of Hawaii as we enter the 2020 Legislative Ses- the expansion of our local skilled
labor pool. Gary Yoshioka of Dia-
mond Bakery has made excellent
use of some of the manufacturing
assistance programs created by the
legislature. He encouraged others to
take advantage of these, explaining
the success of these programs might
provide a framework to successfully
train workers in technology to make
them workforce ready.
Victor Lim of McDonald’s
stressed the importance of col-
laboration as a means of finding
functional solutions to shared chal-
lenges. He cited last year’s Act 254,
which established the Plastic Source
Reduction Working Group, as a type
of legislation that gives him hope
that we can find solutions and rea-
sonable compromises to other is-
sues facing Hawaii.
Joe Carter of Coca-Cola spoke to
his company’s long history in Ha-
waii, noting that beyond providing
food, local businesses provide jobs,
sponsor sports teams, volunteer,
stock the foodbank, drive the econ-
omy, and play a vital role in disaster
relief. Carter closed the panel by
stressing the importance of creating
statutes that help us work as a team.
High cost of living, high labor
costs, natural disasters, the home-
less crisis, and lack of trained work-
ers are just some of the challenges
facing Hawaii businesses. Working
collaboratively is the way forward
for our business community and
state government.
1 4 | H AWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020Shipping perishables? We’re on it.
When you’re shipping perishable goods, speed and reliability are must-haves. That’s
exactly what you get with Hawaiian Air Cargo. Learn more at HawaiianAirCargo.com.
Auckland | Boston | Brisbane | Hilo | Honolulu | Kahului | Kona | Lāna‘i City | Las Vegas | Līhu‘e | Los Angeles
New York City (JFK) | Oakland | Osaka (Kansai) | Pago Pago | Papeete | Phoenix | Portland | Sacramento | San Diego
San Francisco | Seattle | Seoul (Incheon) | Sydney | Tokyo (Haneda) | Tokyo (Narita)Proposed French tlement in this dispute and avoid
the implementation of new tar-
Wine Tariffs
iffs,” said Stuart, who is also WS-
WA’s immediate past chairman in
testimony before the Section 301
Threaten Industry
Committee. “At a minimum, in or-
der to avoid the negative economic
impact and allow wine and spirits
wholesalers to continue to respond
to consumer demand, USTR
BY MEGHAN THIBAULT
consumers and jobs. should remove champagne and
“In 2018, the United States im- French sparkling wines from the
In 2018, Champagne and spar- ported $743 million worth of final list of French-origin products
kling wine from France account- sparkling wine from French pro- that may be subject to additional
ed for 12.14 percent of total U.S. ducers. This would be equal to a tariffs in this dispute.”
wine imports and 2.76 percent of product value of $718 million after
the entire U.S. wine market. Even- deducting freight and insurance
ly distributed across the country, charges,” said Stuart. “Cham-
a recently proposed 100 percent pagne and sparkling wine import-
tariff on French wines would lead ed from France account for about
to an overall price increase of 2.5 12.14% of total wine imports and
percent on wine, or about $1.87 a 2.76% of the entire wine market in
gallon at the consumer level. the United States…A 100% tariff
Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of on French sparkling wines would
America (WSWA) represents im- be equal to a price increase of ap-
porters, producers, exporters, dis- proximately $718 million. Adding
tributors, and retailers across the back the transportation margin,
country, including many of our the increased cost to distributors
own HFIA member companies. rises to over $743 million.”
In January, WSWA joined a coa- “This would be passed through
lition of beverage alcohol industry from importers to distributors
leaders opposing both existing and and ultimately to the final con-
newly proposed U.S. tariffs on Eu- sumer…this price increase will
ropean alcohol products, and the result in 1.15 million gallons of lost
inclusion of champagne and spar- sales…a reduction of about 1.84%
kling wine from France on a list of in wine sales. Lower volumes will
proposed retaliatory tariffs being result in lost jobs as wholesalers
considered by the Office of Unit- need fewer truck drivers, clerks
ed States Trade Representative and warehouse staff,” said Stuart.
(USTR), in response to the recent Stuart was referring to demand
French Digital Services Tax (DST). models developed by WSWA that
In a letter to the USTR, the coa- also estimate that such a drop in
lition detailed the disproportion- wine sales will ultimately lead to a
ate negative economic impact any total of 17,000 lost jobs and more
increased duties on French cham- than $750 million in lost wages.
pagne and sparkling wine, in par- Additionally, the model predicts a
ticular, would cause to U.S. jobs, total cost to the American econo-
consumers and small to medium my of more than $2 billion.
businesses, including nearly all “We don’t expect Hawaii to be
WSWA members. disproportionately affected com-
Barkley Stuart, executive vice pared to other U.S. states,” said
president of Southern Glazer’s Cindy Haas, vice president of ex-
Wine & Spirits, testified at a pub- ternal communications and cor-
lic hearing held by USTR on behalf porate social responsibility at
of WSWA. He urged the admin- Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits,
istration not to adopt tariffs on based in Miami. “The effect would
French champagne and sparkling be far-reaching and the same in all
wine and avoid the numerous un- States.”
intended consequences these du- “We strongly urge the U.S. and
ties would have on U.S. businesses, France to reach a negotiated set-
1 6 | H AWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020FEBRUARtYh M A R C Hth
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visit www.hawaiifood.com for details.The Future
of Food
M
ahi Pono acquired management firms.
Mahi Pono Diversifies 41,000 acres of for- Mahi Pono’s signature crop of
Crops on Maui mer sugarcane land potatoes has so far adapted well to
Sugarcane Land from Alexander
& Baldwin over a
Maui’s soil and climate. Red, white
and yellow potatoes are success-
year ago. Since then, the company fully being grown and harvested
A look at companies has been preparing and planting in Puunene. The company kicked
likely to define and the land in East Maui, replacing the off 2020 with a donation of 30,000
long-term sugarcane monoculture pounds of potatoes to the Hawaiʻi
shape the future of the with a diverse array of non-GMO Foodbank.
food industry crops.ahi Pono is a joint venture be- According to reporting by Maui
tween Pomona Farming LLC, a Cal- News Now, the company’s recent
ifornia-based farming company, the harvest passed a standardized Food
Public Sector Pension Investment and Drug Administration panel test.
BY MEGHAN THIBAULT Board (PSP Investments), one of All studies came back clear, mean-
Canada’s largest pension investment ing that more than 400 chemicals,
1 8 | H AWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020ALL IMAGES COURTESY MAHI PONO
including diquat and paraquat, stores and restaurants on Maui and have been earmarked for the com-
were undetected in Mahi Pono’s eventually, across the state, wrote pany’s expanding grass-fed beef
potato crop. Mahi Pono Senior VP Shan Tsut- production.
The company’s commercial har- sui, in a recent Maui Now op-ed. Other crops being tested include
vest begins in earnest in mid-Feb- “Our long-term goal is to bring sus- varietal onions, along with papaya,
ruary, and Mahi Pono is estimating tainable agriculture to Maui with mac nuts, avocado, and melons.
that their crop will yield 50,000 strong, integrated farming practices According to Jayson Watts, Proj-
pounds of potatoes per week, a that are economically viable, envi- ect Manager at Mahi Pono, they’ve
quantity that will significantly re- ronmentally sound and good for been working closely with super-
duce the need for imported pota- our community. market chains and other large and
toes from the mainland. The com- Mahi Pono is planting about small retailers and entrepreneurs
pany has partnered with the Hawaii 400,000 citrus trees, including lem- to determine which crops are most
Foodservice Alliance to distribute on, lime, and orange trees. Other needed in Hawaii’s grocery stores.
crops as they come to harvest. crops slated for planting include An initiative called “Chef’s Corner”
“Residents will soon start see- coffee and breadfruit trees. More hopes to supply needed ingredients
ing locally grown potatoes in retail than 2,000 acres of pastureland for Hawaii’s vibrant dining scene.
H AWA IIF OOD . C O M | 19“We are open to working with is still young enough and nimble equipment and infrastructure. In-
consumers. If restaurants and gro- enough that they are able and will- vestments in job creation have re-
cery stores want something specific, ing to work with the community to sulted in 130 full-time employees
we are willing to work with them,” fulfill existing needs. and 20 part-time jobs for Maui
said Watts, who explained that the With that in mind, Mahi Pono has residents, all working to grow
company holds local food security made significant land investments, food on Maui, for Maui.
as one of its values. The company as well as capital expenditures on Mahi Pono is leasing 2-, 5-, and
ALL IMAGES COURTESY MAHI PONO
2 0 | H AWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020PPU near the airport. Armstrong ronment using their knowledge of
Produce will serve as PlantLab’s plant physiology and technology to
distribution partner, capitalizing on optimize all growing conditions.
their already established infrastruc- PlantLab doesn’t modify the plants
ture and relationships with buyers. themselves. Instead, they’ve created
“When we talk about the prod- an ideal growing environment by
ucts that are going to be grown, we controlling variables like humidity,
want to target the kinds of crops airflow, light, root temperature and
that are 100% imported. Sustain- irrigation. They do so using state-
ability means that you have to di- of-the-art technology, a multi-lay-
minish what you’re importing,” said ered growing system, mathematical
Armstrong’s Director of Marketing modeling, and top-notch insights
Tisha Uyehara. into plant physiology.
The partnership will by growing PlantLab’s “precision agricul-
different varieties of lettuce. While ture” uses resources in a highly
grown here, Uyehara noted lettuce targeted way, so that foods can be
isn’t grown with enough volume to grown closer to consumers using
produce economies of scale to sup- less than 10 percent of traditional
ply supermarkets and restaurants. water usage. PlantLabs need less
“It’ll produce fresher produce, than half the quantity of fertilizers
grown in Hawaii. It’s cost-effective used in conventional farming and
10-acre parcels of land as a part of from an energy use point of view, operate without the use of herbi-
its 200-acre community farm ini- and solar power may help to offset cides or pesticides.
tiative designed to provide land to some of the costs of electricity.” De- The result is a reduction in mar-
Maui residents looking to engage in pending on the commodity being keting and transportation waste.
farming on Maui. The cost is $150 grown, the growing cycle is gener- Given Hawaii’s distance from the
per acre per year. ally between two and three weeks, mainland, where much of our food
Applicants for the communi- Uyehara told us. is grown, transportation not only
ty farming initiative are required Plants respond well to red and blue adds to our food costs but also im-
to submit a farm plan which is re- LED lights so that the PPUs can be pacts our environment.
viewed by a Community Farm Ad- operational even in the dark of night. “The fact that it’s going to be pro-
visory Board. While these plans are PlantLab’s Plant Paradise® can op- duced here, it’s a local product, and
evaluated, Mahi Pono is not dictat- erate 24/7, resulting in a year-round can be at the customer the day af-
ing what successful applicants can growing, no matter where their plant ter it’s harvested is a huge benefit,”
grow. They’re looking to support production units are located. said Uyehara. “For us, it’s all about
stable, sustainable farm plans. The prototype of PlantLab‘s first having consistent supplier products
plant production unit was complet- because our customers depend on
Armstrong
ed in 2006. The goal was to devel- it. It has to be of good quality and
op an ideal, closed growing envi- done consistently.”
Produce
Partners with
PlantLab
HFIA member Armstrong Pro-
duce has partnered with a Neth-
erlands-based company called
PHOTO COURTESY PLANT LAB
PlantLab. Using their cutting-edge
technology, PlantLab has devel-
oped an indoor, controlled growing
environment that maximizes re-
sources like water and light to grow
and harvest crops year-round in an
indoor lab. PlantLab’s plant pro-
duction unit (or PPU) is known as a
Plant Paradise®.
The partnership is developing a
60,000 square-foot, multi-layered
H AWA IIF OOD . C O M | 21“TRIPLE CROWN”
ANNUAL SOCIAL A
SOLD-OUT SUCCESS
PHOTOS BY
ANTHONY CONSILLIO
This year’s HFIA annual social at the
Honolulu Country Club was a huge
success thanks to our dedicated planning
committee and sponsors. Mahalo to the
the many members who turned out for the
Triple Crown-themed evening of horseplay,
heavy pupus, games, prizes and cocktails
at the Honolulu Country Club. MAHALO
to our generous event sponsors for making
this evening of fun possible!
1
2 3
4 5
1. Joe Carter with the Carter’s 3. Stanton Saiki, Guy Tanioka, 4. Alexis Chapman, Toby 5. Mike Minogue, Randi Tsushima,
Triple Crown winners, Tracy Jamie Reich, Naomi Azama, Taniguchi, and Lauren Zirbel Mike Nakamura, Ed Chun and
Ide, and Paul Kosasa Kennedy Smythe, Kathy Teresa Lieu. Back: Nick
Lapenia, Samantha Haas, Domingo, Chris Clark, Darin
2. Chris Clark, Mike Minogue, Shaun Strand, and Mike Nita Shigeta, Jen Moku, Nelson
Darin Shigeta, Kyle Shelly, Moku III, Cyd Miyashiro and
and Nick Domingo Randy Lu
2 2 | H AWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 20208 9
10
11 12
13
14
15 16
17
8. Denise Sasaki, Mike Kaya 11. Len Isotoff, Chad Dias, 14. June Namba, Patti Day 16. George and Lucy Branco, Guy
and Kellie Sasaki-Rapoza and Paul McCully and Maggie Li Tanioka, Jamie Reich and
Stanton Saiki
9. Bonnie Tam-Hoy and 12. Gary and Sheryl Villanueva, 15. Jana Focht and Jill Chiang
Laura Schulman Liz and Brian Christensen, Mike Ohashi, Shellie Hayashi, 17. Mike Ohashi, Shellie Hayashi,
Carl Oshiro Bryson Kihara, and Bryson Kihara and Jason Arakaki
10. Eloree Amian and Jason Arakaki
Julie Macalma 13. Jill Chiang, Chad Cohen,
Caren Yamauchi and Miyuki
1 6 . H AWA IIF OOD . C OM | 23
Hirano-Hollingworth1 2
3
5
4
8
6 7
10
9
1. Bonnie Amemiya, Joy Oda, 3. Larry Ishii, Wendy Fujio, Joe 5. Mike Ohashi, Shellie Hayashi, 8. Chris Loretero and Matt Case
and Peggy Abella Carter and Laren Zirbel Eloree Bryson Kihara, and Jason Arakaki with their raffle prizes
Amian, Julie Macalma, and
2. Kevin Wong, Brendan Yamada, Jacky Uesato 6. Jeff Cagaoan with his raffle prize 9. Carriann Ho, Kim Young, Tiana
Sherilyn Oliver, Rob Kline, and Quiocho, and Katy Okuyama
Eric Nonaka 4. Carl Oshiro 7. Reid Morihara, SeKwon Kim,
and Don Hirota 10. Joni Marcello, Alan Nakamura,
Elaine Miyagi and Denise Sasaki
2 4 | H AWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020A Huge Mahalo
to Our Generous
11
Event Sponsors!
12 13
Presenting Sponsor
American Savings Bank
Title Sponsor
Coca-Cola Bottling of Hawaii
Turf Club Sponsors:
ABC Stores
Anheuser-Busch Sales of Hawaii
C&S Wholesale Grocers
14
Hawaii Gas
Honolulu Star Advertiser
KTA Super Stores
KYD, Inc.
Matson
Meadow Gold Dairies
Okimoto Corp.
Pepsi Beverages Co.
15 21
Pint Size Hawaii
11. Teri Luna, Dwayne Fujitani, 13. Heather and Dan Pence Rainbow Sales & Marketing
and Kacie Cohen;
14. Sunny Tran and Glenn Muranaka Southern Wine & Spirits of Hawaii
12. Yan and Patti-Jo Day heading
down the home stretch 15. Ron Nagasawa and Anne Lee UHA Health Insurance
H AWA IIF OOD . C O M | 25PHOTO: MARTIN BELAM/FLICKR
BILL 40 HAS What This Means
For Businesses
PASSED As of January 1, 2021, no plastic
straws and utensils; only non-plastic
straws and utensils on request; only
What Does the Plastic Ban Mean handle-less plastic bags can be used.
for Your Business? Plastic utensils and straws will no
longer be allowed for sale or distri-
bution by food vendors to custom-
BY ALEXIS CHAPMAN ers for prepared food. The list in-
cludes plastic straws, forks, knives,
I
spoons, sporks, chopsticks, stirrers,
n December, Honolulu Council sure, plastic is defined as “any material and baran. Plastic straws may be
passed Bill 40, one of the most made of fossil fuel-derived or petro- provided upon request to custom-
aggressive plastic foodware chemical polymeric compounds and ers who need them for a medical or
bans in the country, a version additives that can be shaped by flow.” physical reason. Customers do not
that was released one day be- This definition does not include need to explain or demonstrate any
fore the final hearing. While this was 100% plant-based or bioplastics, such medical or physical reason for re-
not the most favorable outcome for as PLA containers or utensils made of questing a plastic straw. Hospitals,
our members, HFIA efforts and those any non-petroleum material. nursing homes, and other health
of our coalition partners ensured that These latter items will still be allow- care facilities are exempt from the
some of the most damaging aspects able once the bill takes effect. The bill prohibition on plastic straws.
were omitted from the final bill and does not mandate that plastic alterna- Non-plastic utensils and straws
that the bill’s implementation would tives be ASTM certified compostable; can only be given to customers on
span two years. Bill 40 goes into effect it only requires that they not be made request or made available in self-ser-
on January 1, 2021, though some as- from petroleum-based plastic. Com- vice areas or dispensers. Staff can no
pects of its implementation take effect postable plastic bags are banned ex- longer automatically include or pro-
on January 1, 2022. plicitly as of January 1, 2020, by a sep- vide them. Plastic straws and uten-
For the items impacted by this mea- arate existing statute. sils that come pre-attached to prod-
2 6 | H AWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020ucts like juice boxes or prepackaged
salads are exempt.
not include disposable plastic con-
diment packets; food-related bags or
Plastic Ban
There are also changes to the types wrappers, including, but not limited Exemptions
of plastic bags allowed after January to, musubi wraps, plastic film, poi
1, 2021. Plastic bags will no longer bags, chip bags, cracker and cookie Some important exemptions are listed
be allowed to transport prepared wrappers, bread bags, meal kits, or in the definitions of the bill. Including:
food or beverages. Plastic bags used ice bags; beverage-related bottles
by customers in-store to package or cartons; non-plastic cups that Packaging for raw meat, raw poultry,
loose items can no longer have han- contain a polyethylene or plastic raw seafood, unprepared produce and
dles. Only bags without handles will coating; packaging for unprepared uncooked eggs.
be allowed for loose items like bak- food; and packaging for wholesale
ery goods, fruits, vegetables, nuts, distribution of prepared food, baked Packaging for prepackaged food. Pre-
ground coffee, grains, candies, or goods or dairy products. packaged food means prepared food
small hardware items. This ban does not apply to packag- that is sealed, contained, or wrapped
Plastic bags used to contain or ing of prepackaged food or shelf-sta- in a manner to protect and prevent the
wrap frozen foods, meat or fish, flow- ble food. The bill defines prepackaged prepared food from having any direct
ers or potted plants, or other items food as prepared food that is sealed, human contact, prior to being provided
to contain dampness must also be contained, or wrapped in a manner for sale by a food vendor to a customer,
handle-free after the implementation to protect and prevent the prepared including, but not limited to, bentos,
date. Additionally, pharmacists will food from having any direct human kimchi, seaweed salad, takuan, tofu,
not be allowed to provide plastic bags contact, prior to being provided for pre-made sandwiches, desserts, pies,
for medications. The ban includes sale by a food vendor to a customer, noodles, salads, parfaits, and drinks.
door hanger bags. Hotels will no lon- including, but not limited to, bentos,
ger be permitted to offer plastic bags kimchi, seaweed salad, takuan, tofu, Disposable plastic condiment packets;
to guests for wet or dirty clothes.. pre-made sandwiches, desserts, pies, food-related bags or wrappers, includ-
noodles, salads, parfaits, and drinks. ing, but not limited to, musubi wraps,
As of January 1, 2022, no more plas- It defines shelf-stable as prepared plastic film, poi bags, chip bags, cracker
tic or polystyrene plates, clamshells, and food that can be safely stored at room and cookie wrappers, bread bags, meal
cups for prepared food. Plastic food- temperature and does not require kits, or ice bags; beverage-related bot-
ware, including all types of polystyrene refrigeration, freezing, or heating for tles or cartons.
foodware, will no longer be allowed for food safety purposes, prior to pur-
prepared food. chase by a customer. Non-plastic cups that contain a polyeth-
Businesses may no longer sell dis- ylene or plastic coating.
“Prepared food” refers to any food posable plastic straws, plastic uten-
or beverages that are prepared for sils, or plastic or polystyrene food- Packaging for unprepared food.
consumption on or off a food ven- ware to customers. Companies that
dor’s premises. Preparation in- sell packaging wholesale to food Packaging for wholesale distribution
cludes cooking, chopping, peeling, vendors may continue to sell pack- of prepared food, baked goods or dairy
slicing, mixing, brewing, freezing, aging for raw meat, raw poultry, raw products.
squeezing, or otherwise processing seafood, unprepared produce and
at premises owned, leased, or other- uncooked eggs; packaging for pre-
wise controlled by the food vendor. packaged food, or shelf-stable food; cause significant hardship to hard-
However, the term does not in- and packaging for food vendors who ship to their business. Exemptions
clude raw meat, raw poultry, raw have been granted an exemption. will last for two years and can be
seafood, unprepared produce and Packaging for catered food. Ca- renewed for two years, while the ex-
uncooked eggs. Prepared food in- tered food means food provided in emption is in effect, efforts must be
cludes restaurant-style food and bulk quantity amounts or multiple made to come into compliance. The
beverages that are packaged after servings with the intent for later department may grant an “industry
being ordered and ready to be con- consumption, or the service of pre- exemption” from compliance with
sumed without further preparation. pared food at a site or event venue. certain restrictions upon application
It is our understanding that poke The Department of Environmen- and the provision of sufficient evi-
will not be exempted. Any poke tal Services (ENV) will be enforcing dence that compliance would cause
that contains any added ingredients the mandate and may also grant ex- hardship to the foodservice industry.
or that is cooked is considered pre- emptions. Food vendors seeking an HFIA will be working to obtain
pared food. exemption will have to apply to the information from ENV about the
Foodware refers to hot and cold ENV. They must provide sufficient rules as soon as possible. We also
beverage cups, cup lids, plates, evidence that there are no reason- encourage members to reach out to
bowls, bowl lids, clamshells, trays, able alternatives available to the the ENV with specific questions by
or other hinged or lidded containers food vendor to comply, or that com- calling (808) 768-3486 and through
that contain plastic. The term does pliance with the restriction would their website Honolulu.gov/env.
H AWA IIF OOD . C O M | 27New Flavored ing combustible to-
bacco while ensur-
Vaping Laws
ing these products
don’t provide an
on-ramp to nicotine
BY ALEXIS CHAPMAN addiction for our
youth.”
Over the past few months, there have The Federal gov-
been some significant changes to to- ernment is also at-
bacco regulation at the federal level. tempting to address
PHOTO: ANDREW S/FLICKR
On January 2, 2020, the FDA issued youth vaping by
an “enforcement policy on unautho- raising the tobac-
rized flavored cartridge-based e-cig- co purchase age
arettes.” nationwide. New
The FDA does not authorize fla- federal legislation
vored cartridge-based electronic signed in Decem-
nicotine delivery systems. The new ber 2019, changed
enforcement policy is effectively a the minimum age to
ban on the manufacture, distribu- 2019 National Youth Tobacco Survey purchase tobacco products from 18
tion, and sale of these products. The results showed that young people to 21, aligning with Hawaii’s tobac-
new policy, which took effect on are attracted to flavored products. co purchase age, which has been 21
February 6, 2020, does not apply to Health and Human Services Di- since 2017.
menthol or tobacco products. Com- rector Alex Azar said, “By prioritiz- Several bills at the Hawaii State
panies not in compliance after that ing enforcement against the prod- Legislature this year would further
date may face FDA enforcement ac- ucts that are most widely used by restrict the sale of various tobacco
tions. children, our action today seeks to products and electronic smoking
Per the FDA, the new policy in- strike the right public health bal- products. HFIA will continue to pro-
tends to address the youth vaping ance by maintaining e-cigarettes as vide updated information on these
epidemic sweeping the country. The a potential off-ramp for adults us- measures in our Weekly Update.
INTRODUCING
OUR NEW SPECIALLY
CRAFTED BEVERAGES MOVING HAWAI‘I
EVERY DAY
FREQUENT, AFFORDABLE
INTER-ISLAND SERVICE SINCE 1900
www.YoungBrothersHawaii.com
FIND THESE REFRESHING
BEVERAGES AT A STORE NEAR YOU
Photo: Kalohi Channel by William Renio
2 8 | H AWAI I RETAI L G R OC E R | SPR I N G 2020MEMBER NEWS
Pukalani Superette Big Island Coffee Roasters
Affectionately known locally as “Puk Sup,” The Sundance Film Festival, the largest
this upcountry Maui shop is supporting independent film festival in the United States,
art in public spaces. serves up Hawaii Island coffee.
As the Pukalani Superette in Makawao, Maui, cele- Held every winter in Utah, the Sundance Film Festival is
brates its 65th year in business, they have joined the ‘art the ultimate gathering of original storytellers and audi-
in public spaces’ movement sweeping across communi- ences seeking new voices and fresh perspectives. From
ties in Hawaii. January 24-26, 2020, Big Island Coffee Roasters served
“We provided space on our storefront for a local art- their Hawaiian coffee at The Retreat, the Eco-Luxury
ist to paint a mural,” said Megan Nakashima, the store’s themed VIP lounge set up for celebrity, filmmakers, VIP
brand manager and director of community outreach. guests and media.
The mural reflects Pukalani’s upcountry, paniolo roots. “It is our pleasure to serve our 100% Hawaiian specialty
“Our employees affectionately named them “Puk” and coffees at the Sundance Film Festival. We shared Hawaiian
“Sup,” she explained. The mural was created around the coffees from all four corners of the Big Island, both modern
time of the Makawao Rodeo, a Maui event the North and traditional: Kona Geisha, Natural Process Ka’u, Bar-
Shore store sponsored for the first time this year. rel Aged Puna, Hamakua, and Kona Peaberry, along with
The artist produced the work on plywood. The shop Espresso Bites. We are very honored to be a part of such
plans to make this an annual project, refreshing the art- an exciting event filled with creative energy whilst support-
work each year and donating the older paintings to a ing a great cause to raise money for children”, said Kelleigh
charity auction of the artist’s choice. Stewart, Co-Founder of Big Island Coffee Roasters.
In homage to an underused and recently removed Ha- The lounge also served as a fundraiser for Project Green,
waiian Telcom payphone outside their store, another lo- a non-profit organization that supports underserved chil-
cal artist recreated the phone in perfect detail, bringing dren and teenagers, helping those in foster care to attend
up a swell of memories on social from the local commu- summer camp.
nity about the painting’s original subject.
“There is a large thirst for art in public spaces here,
and these two projects have helped us participate in that
movement, as well as support up-and-coming artists in a
way that we feel is unique to our store,” said Nakashima,
referencing the SMALL TOWN * BIG ART project tak-
PHOTO: TRAVIS WISE/FLICKR
ing place across Wailuku.
Puk Sup recently provided their staffers with at least
six months of service with exclusive, branded hydro
flasks not available for sale to the public. The gift hon-
ors each employee’s service and acts on the company’s
commitment to producing less waste.
H AWA IIF OOD . C O M | 29You can also read
