Asano omiyage company bought by Island Princess mac nut firm

Purdyco Ltd., parent of the Island Princess line of macadamia nut confections, has bought Asano of Hawaii under undisclosed terms.

Founded by Tom Asano and Takako Hee 23 years ago, Asano of Hawaii sells omiyage, or gift items, for Japanese travelers to take home for family, friends and business associates.

Island Princess products have been part of the Asano catalog since its inception, said Adrienne Sweeney, sales manager.

Island Princess products account for 75 percent of Asano sales, which are $1 million annually.

Purdyco President Michael Purdy anticipates 30 percent growth next year, citing "an increase in product offerings and a strategy focused on meeting ever-changing visitor needs."

Since 1989 Asano has developed relationships with major tour companies serving Japanese visitors, including Jalpak International Hawaii, Kintetsu International Hawaii and JCB International.

Asano fills more than 1,000 orders in the average month, about 35 per day, though the number more than doubles in December due to the increase in Japa­nese visitors who come in for the Honolulu Marathon.

During marathon week, daily orders exceed 100.

Asano has three full-time and 12 part-time employees.

Items travelers choose are delivered to Honolulu Airport for as many as 26 daily flights.

Under Purdyco, the omiyage company has been renamed Asano Gifts of Hawaii. It joins sibling companies, including Island Princess, a 1,100-acre macadamia orchard and processing facility in Keaau on Hawaii island; and Orchard Heights Winery in Salem, Ore.. which produces wines including Island Princess Tropical Wines.

While Asano and Hee are retiring, "both are still with the company to assist with a seamless transition," Sweeney said.