Hawaii’s dependence on the tourism economy is often misunderstood. At least 25% of the state’s entire economy relies on tourism. Hawaii Island tourism has struggled since 2008. The Big Island’s local merchants have proven to be resilient when dealing with adversities such as volcanic eruptions, tsunamis and hurricanes. The reporting of these events often elevates concern on mainland news. While the community is strong, the coronavirus epidemic is an unprecedented villain to Hawaii’s economy.
In a conversation with Hilo local, Jessica Mata (Operations Manager at Big Island Mexican Foods), I learned just how difficult business has been. Jessica’s mother purchased Big Island Mexican Foods in 1997. Jessica states that she’s “not sure if business has ever been worse than it is now.” Both shipping and product prices have escalated, while food supply has declined. When combined with the nonexistent tourism economy, it has become near impossible for most Big Island businesses to stay open.
Innovation is abundant among Hawaii’s small businesses. One of Jessica’s largest clients, Luquin’s in Pahoa, has moved to drive-thru only operations, while others have simplified menus and offerings. These necessary changes have exponentially reduced the tortilla orders from Big Island Mexican Foods. Other restaurants have transformed full service dining rooms into fast food pick up counters. Kohala Burger and Taco in Kawaihae, for example, created their very own zero contact payment method. Their adjoining “Drop In…and Bail Out” concept, Surf Burger has also added easy online ordering and has modified operations to better accommodate weekend beach goers. Many Hawaii businesses continue to evolve in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Keeping our money on our island is of paramount importance. According to a recent study by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, “for every $1 spent at restaurants $1.82 goes back into our local economy.” By buying locally made goods from locally owned companies, our community can help support the Big Island’s food suppliers and save 1000’s of local jobs.
When you buy local, surviving this economic crisis becomes feasible. If you’re interested in experiencing the famous, island-made, corn tortillas from Big Island Mexican Foods, try Surf Burger’s new TACOS del SURf order online now at Surfburger.smartonlineorder.com
Aloha and A Hui Hou
Fresh Tortillas rolling off the press at Big Island Mexican Foods