CocoNene, the beloved local brand known for its made in Hawaii products that encapsulate the islands’ spirit and culture, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of their new store in Waikoloa, Big Island. The celebration commenced with a special blessing ceremony today, prior to the official grand opening at 10 a.m, marking a significant milestone for the brand and local community.
CocoNene is part of the family of brands that includes the esteemed kama’aina company Pictures Plus, founded in 1986 by Kent and Lori Untermann. Dedicated to crafting meaningful products that feature designs by local artists, all of CocoNene’s products are proudly 100% made in Hawaii, a testament to their commitment to local artistry and manufacturing. Their assortment of wood wall art, home décor and gifts capture the essence and beauty of Hawaii and its gift-giving culture. CocoNene’s annual holiday collection is especially popular with Hawaii residents looking for unique, locally made gifts for the holidays, including ornaments, customizable Longboard Letters, and new this year, a collection of Hawaii villages and nativity scenes.
Pictures Plus, a homegrown family business, was founded on the principles of hard work and the belief that their team is an extended ‘ohana (family). This unique business philosophy has led to the remarkable success of the Untermanns and their company, which includes 150 employees, many of whom have been with the organization for over a decade. The Untermanns’ commitment to excellence and community has resulted in multiple SBA awards, as well as the prestigious status of being one of the few SBA inaugural Hall of Fame members.
Tragically, in August of 2023, CocoNene faced an enormous setback when their flagship store, located in a historic building on Front Street in Lahaina, was lost to the devastating Lahaina wildfires. The Front Street store accounted for approximately 50% of CocoNene’s sales and its loss was a poignant blow. In response to this challenge, CocoNene has pivoted their strategy to rebuilding and recovery efforts to ensure continued employment for their valued sales and manufacturing team members. Together, the CocoNene team will open three new stores across Hawaii by the end of the year, including a new CocoNene store in West Maui, where they will offer their Lahaina team an opportunity to get back on their feet.
The new Waikoloa store, approximately 820 sq. ft. in size, will be the first of the three new stores to open. Their ability to pivot and open a new store less than 90 days after the loss of their flagship location is a remarkable story of perseverance and determination. The store, located in the Kings’ Shops area of the resort, will feature the same iconic products that have made CocoNene a beloved Hawaii brand, including home décor, wood wall art by local artists, and their signature Longboard Letters.
To celebrate the new store opening, CocoNene is offering an exclusive CocoNene bag tag, featuring their iconic mascot, the nene goose. This special gift is free with any purchase and exclusively available at their new location, while supplies last.
About CocoNene
CocoNene creates authentically fun products that celebrate home, ‘ohana and Hawaii’s unique sense of place. All décor and gift items are locally made in Kapolei, Hawaii. Through its partnership with local artists and designers, CocoNene creates new product collections year-round that celebrate the island lifestyle and honor Hawaii’s gift-giving culture. The company is part of a family of brands that includes the esteemed kama’aina company Pictures Plus, founded in 1986 by Kent and Lori Untermann. For more information, visit CocoNene’s website at www.coconene.com and on Facebook and Instagram.