Latest news with #LeFlowers
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Fresh flower lei prices soar as graduation season is in full swing
HONOLULU (KHON2) — Graduation season is in full swing, with college ceremonies wrapping up and high school seniors getting ready to graduate all month long. But, if you were planning on buying fresh flower lei for your graduate, get ready to spend more money. HFD extinguishes ambulance fire in Wailupe Lei stands and flower shops in town were busy on May 17, as thousands of people attended UH Mānoa's graduation ceremony. But many shoppers noticed they were spending more money than they did in 2024. 'These used to go for $40, but now I think it's like $70 I paid for,' said one graduate's grandmother. 'For me, [the price] went double and almost triple,' said Cindy Tanituchi, whose granddaughter is graduating from UH Mānoa. 'Seriously, because usually I pay about $35 to $40 and I went to the airport and at the airport the one lady wanted between $65 and up to almost $80 and I went and got this one for $50,' she added while showing her fresh flower lei. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news In early April, new tariffs took effect which raised prices for countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Thailand where most fresh flowers come from. There were also tariffs in place on China goods like plastic containers and vases, and while negotiations are underway with some countries, owners say they are already paying more for goods. Candice Le at Le Flowers said container prices were up and packaging prices have gone up too. She said this year is the highest she's seen flowers and lei prices. 'Even we're scared to put up the price, that's how expensive it is,' Le said fragrant flowers are in demand and limited supply, so it will cost customers more. But if you're on a budget and have multiple graduations to attend this year, there are ways to make lei that still hold sentimental value. 'We went on Youtube to watch how to make lei and we do eyelash lei, yarn lei, just prep early,' said Marlene Sagapolutele, a loved one of a graduate. 'I made my own lei for $20,' Tanituchi said. 'It's a $20 money lei made out of $1 bills, so make your own! Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
19-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Saying aloha: Siam Imports to shutter as neighborhood transforms
HONOLULU (KHON2) — A Moiliili institution is preparing to say goodbye after nearly three decades of serving the community. The small shop's closure is just part of the big changes sweeping through the neighborhood in the coming months. Ocean Safety rescues three teen kayakers amid heavy storms For 28 years, Siam Imports was more than just a store. It was a journey across continents, tucked inside a small shop in the heart of Moiliili. 'It's been a privilege to connect the small businesses in Thailand with the Hawaii customers,' said Kevin Costello, owner of Siam Imports. Costello first went to Thailand in 1988 and originally started as a wholesale business. He found the perfect spot for a store at Kuni Square on South King Street in 1997 and found a niche with his handmade products from India, Nepal and Thailand that couldn't be found anywhere else on the island.'The jewelry, the incense, the little gift items like these little purses, and little boxes, its just a super cool place,' said Donna Bender, who has been shopping at Siam Imports since it opened. 'So many of us are going to miss this place. We love it.' 'I was so sad. because he has such great products from around the world,' said Kathleen Talamantes, who lives on the mainland, but said she shops at the store every time she's in Hawaii. 'And just being here. [Costello] is part of Hawaii and that's a good thing.' Siam Imports will close its doors for good at the end of June. Not by choice, but circumstance. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news 'It's not so easy to find a good location that's comparable the rents are double, triple,' Costello said. Central Pacific Bank bought the property and gave businesses two years' notice. In a statement, CPB said it 'is working on a redevelopment project for the new Moiliili Branch that will enhance the area for the community.' They said the bank plans include public conference rooms and a meeting space where customers can host events. Right next door to Siam Imports is another local business saying farewell. After more than 28 years, Le Flowers is closing their doors at the end of May. 'I'm trying to make it a happy event, telling everybody this is just a new opportunity for us,' said Candice Le, owner of Le Flowers. 'We couldn't have asked for a better neighborhood, better place, better location. To the vendors, thank you to them.' Kona cyclist dies after rear-ending tour bus More change is found just across the street. Kamehameha Schools redevelopment is already reshaping the landscape, with some wondering what's being left behind. 'It's like the end of an era,' Bender said. 'We kinda knew this place was a one story area, so we kinda had a feeling they were gonna do something,' Le said. Construction on the bank is expected to begin this summer. CPB said they're open to working with tenants on transitional plans. But Le Flowers said they plan to retire. As for Siam Imports, Costello says he's not sure what's next for him, and gets a little emotional thinking about it. 'The last month or so has been kind difficult,' Costello said, stopping to hold back tears. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
