Longtime Kailua business to bid final aloha due to COVID, high rent in Hawaii

Final day is Aug. 31: Every thing 25% to 75% off

HONOLULU (KHON2) — An additional longtime Kailua organization is closing.

Given that 1988, Island Treasures Art Gallery has been in Kailua as a landmark gallery and one particular of the to start with boutiques on the Windward side. More than 300 regional artists source the retail store with handmade artwork and Koa from Hawaii. Just after additional than 30 yrs, they will bid a remaining aloha at the finish of August.

“We are closing because the rents in Kailua have escalated about the decades from $2,500 per month to $15,000 for each thirty day period,” explained Gail Allen, proprietor of Island Treasures.

Allen explained since they are a consignment gallery advertising art from nearby artists, they have to cost the art reasonably to provide, but she extra that there’s not adequate margin to pay back these types of significant rents.

“We are working for the landlord and the stock traders for A&B corp.,” said Allen.

Yet another reason they are shutting down is for the reason that of the COVID-19 pandemic, which Allen said “ruined” their Japanese visitors who built up 50% of profits.

“The closing of trip rentals in Kailua has shut down our tourism that purchases presents to acquire home. We do not know who will take around the spot,” she claimed.

Allen also extends her aloha to the nearby artists who have supported them for quite a few yrs.

Island Treasures will be owning a final closing party and sale on Friday, Aug. 19, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in which there will be new music, beverages and appetizers to thank their customers. They are found at 602 Kailua Street, Suite 102.