A family-owned grocery on Kauai that began as a meat market in 1934 plans to sell the business to Hawaii’s largest locally owned supermarket chain.
The owners of Ishihara Market announced Thursday that they plan to sell the business in Waimea to an affiliate of Foodland Super Market Ltd.
Guy Ishihara, a member of the family’s third generation operating the store, said in a statement that it was not an easy decision to sell.
“With inventory getting harder to purchase at competitive prices, we felt it was time to let go,” he said. “It has been a long road for all of us.”
A price was not disclosed. The acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of summer.
Foodland, which is buying the business through affiliate Kalama Beach Corp., said it will continue to operate the store as Ishihara Market and plans no immediate changes.
About 50 employees work at the store. They are encouraged to apply for jobs through Kalama.
Ishihara said Kalama and his family share values for serving the community and caring for employees. “Kalama Beach Corp. fit this mold perfectly,” he said. “They will keep Ishihara ‘Ishihara.’”
The Ishihara store was started by Shoko Ishihara, who came to Hawaii in the early 1900s for a field labor job at Kekaha Sugar Co., then later sold meat from the back of a Model T truck, according to the company. Son Charles helped the elder Ishihara open a meat market in Kekaha in 1934, and that store moved to Waimea during World War II and later moved to a different location in Waimea. It was rebuilt after being damaged by Hurricane Iniki in 1992.
Guy Ishihara said his family would like to thank the community, vendors, friends and employees they consider family.
Vernon Ikebe, vice president of sales and operations for Kalama, said in a statement that Ishihara Market has been an important part of life in Waimea and that Kalama is committed to continuing its rich history and care for employees and customers.
“We applaud the Ishihara family for all they have done for this community since opening their store more than 80 years ago, and we are honored that they have selected us to continue their great legacy.”
