March 2025

Monthly News & Updates

Chairman's Message

Aloha HRA Members and Friends,

As we close out a very energetic and productive month of March, I'm filled with a sense of optimism and pride for our restaurant and food service community. The energy generated from our inaugural Hawaiʻi Restaurant Association Restaurant and Food Service Expo in February was truly remarkable, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of our industry.

The expo was a resounding success, exceeding our expectations in terms of attendance, engagement and the quality of connections made. The positive feedback we received from attendees and exhibitors alike is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. This event has set a new standard for industry gatherings in Hawaiʻi and we are committed to building upon this success in the years to come.

Next, I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who attended our recent Annual HRA Member Meeting. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect, share insights and discuss the critical issues facing our industry. We had a productive session filled with engaging discussions on legislative updates impacting our businesses and valuable networking opportunities that fostered collaboration and support among our members.

The energy and commitment displayed by our members were truly inspiring. We are a resilient community, and together, we can navigate any challenge.

Looking ahead, I'm thrilled to announce our upcoming annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser! This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a day of friendly competition and camaraderie on a beautiful Hawaiʻi golf course, network with fellow HRA members and industry partners and support the HRA's vital programs and initiatives that benefit our entire restaurant community.

This tournament is a crucial fundraiser for our association and your participation directly contributes to our ability to advocate for your interests and provide essential resources. We encourage all members to join us for a day of fun and fundraising.

As always, the HRA is committed to serving as your voice and advocate. We are dedicated to providing you with the tools, resources and support you need to thrive in our wonderful industry. Thank you for your support!

Mahalo,

Andy Huang

Chairman, Hawaiʻi Restaurant Association

Biodiesel Pioneer Marks 30 Years of Recycling Hawaiʻi’s Used Cooking Oil

As we say in Hawaiʻi, it’s a kākou thing.

Pacific Biodiesel produces its 100% renewable fuel by recycling used cooking oil (UCO) from Hawaiʻi’s restaurants. For each gallon of UCO recycled, nearly one gallon of biodiesel is locally produced. Also, recycling UCO keeps this waste out of Hawaiʻi’s landfills, extending the life of landfills and reducing ground water contamination.



“Hawaiʻi’s restaurants may not realize this, but by recycling their UCO with Pacific Biodiesel, they are part of the renewable energy solution for our island state,” said Dana Shinsato, Fleet Manager for Pacific Biodiesel. “By working with our local company, restaurants are making a positive impact on the environment and our local economy.”

Outdoor Dining is Set to Become a Permanent Option for Oʻahu Restaurants

Dining al fresco may become more common at Oʻahu restaurants with the Honolulu City Council's passing of Bill 1 to make the outdoor dining services program permanent.

Since the program began in 2022, community response has been "overwhelmingly positive," according to Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam, who introduced the bill.



The program has been credited with reducing crime in commercial areas, providing more seating and business for restaurants, and enhancing sidewalks and streets.

“I am excited to see how communities continue to create outdoor dining options that are uniquely their own,” Dos Santos-Tam said in a news release.

Small Business Connections Comes to Waiʻanae

Starting in April, the Oʻahu Business Connector’s Small Business Connection program will bring in-person support to entrepreneurs and small business owners in Waiʻanae. In collaboration with the Waiʻanae Economic Development Council, this initiative aims to provide direct access to valuable business resources

The City’s Resource Connector team will host a Coworking Hub on the second Wednesday of each month. This hub will serve as a space for local business owners to connect with experts, access guidance, and find the right tools to launch or grow their ventures.



The Oʻahu Business Connector has built a network of 80 resource partners—including nonprofits, government agencies, and private organizations—to help businesses navigate key areas such as finances, marketing, and product development.

Restaurants Need Tax Relief That Supports Business Investment

Restaurant operators are facing myriad business challenges, including higher food and labor costs, but chief among them is the impending expiration of several tax-relief provisions.

To help manage the 29% increase in food prices and 31% rise in labor costs, operators are having to rely on such tax-relief provisions as full expensing, qualified business income deductions, and the ability to deduct interest on business debt. However, restaurant operators are anxious those provisions will soon be rolled back, resulting in tax hikes they can’t afford, says Aaron Frazier, the National Restaurant Association’s vice president of Public Policy. 

Tariffs Would be a $12B Hit to Restaurants

The Trump Administration imposed 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico and 10% tariffs on China. The result could drive up the costs of commodities like avocados and baked goods, while slowing economic growth.

But the impacts from the tariffs, 25% on Canadian and Mexican imports and 10% on Chinese imports, could be more far-reaching, potentially creating economic challenges while delaying efforts by the U.S. Federal Reserve to lower interest rates. 

Why Your Restaurant Is Invisible Online

And How to Fix It Before It’s Too Late 

The restaurant industry is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities in maintaining visibility online, where the majority of local consumers go for information and recommendations. SOCi's 2024 Local Visibility Index (LVI) reveals that the U.S. restaurant industry risks losing approximately $6.9 billion in revenue every year due to inadequate digital engagement across key consumer channels such as search engines, social media platforms, and review sites. 

To remain competitive, restaurants must...

How Video Marketing Can Boost Restaurant Visibility

In a highly competitive restaurant industry, it’s crucial to stand out from the crowd and bring an influx of new guests through the door. Video marketing is an essential tool to captivate audiences, drive foot traffic, and win the fierce battle for online attention.

Leveraging engaging and authentic video content allows restaurants to showcase their menu offerings, build a recognizable brand identity, and create a loyal base of regulars and word-of-mouth referrals. Here's how:

Connect With Your Restaurant Supply Chain Peers May 15 - 16, 2025 at the Swissotel Chicago for the Supply Chain Expert Exchange Spring Conference!

What’s ahead for supply chains? Join the discussion in Chicago.

Every supply chain challenge—rising costs, supplier relationships, shifting regulations—has real consequences. The Supply Chain Expert Exchange Spring Conference in Chicago offers 2 days of discussions focused on the challenges that matter most.

Built by operators, for operators, this event is a chance to hear from peers facing the same challenges, gain insights from industry leaders, and build relationships that will strengthen your supply chain strategy.

Be part of the conversation this May.

How Fast-Food Apps Took Over the Drive-Thru

Every major fast-food chain, it seems, now has its own app promising deals, discounts, and a better diner experience overall. But what’s the cost of convenience?

When you pull up to the speaker box in the drive-thru at chains like Wendy’s, McDonald’s, and Taco Bell, the first question you will likely hear is a distinctly modern one: “Will you be using our mobile app today?” If you respond yes to the friendly cashier, you’re asked to provide a code or other signifier, like your name, to help the worker identify your order. By the time you receive your steaming bag of burgers and fries, it’s possible...