WAILUKU, Hawaii >> A Maui boating and marine supply business has been named the county’s Exceptional Small Business of the Year with 10 or fewer employees.

The mayor’s office said in a news release Wednesday that Valley Isle Marine Center, Inc. has been in business for 44 years.

It says it offers competitive pay, a wide array of benefits, flex time and training to ensure employees are knowledgeable about the latest industry technology.

The release says the boating and marine supply business has thin margins and is extremely sensitive to economic turns, but the company continues to invest in its business and create jobs.

Trilogy owners Jim and Rand Coon were recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The mayor’s office says their business practices address conservation and the improvement of Maui’s environment.