More locals expand their business through e-commerce

HONOLULU (KHON2) — State officials are partnering with Amazon and Shopify to help local vendors grow their business through e-commerce.

Shop owners looking to reach consumers around the world learned how to grow their businesses online at a conference with industry leaders on Wednesday morning, February 21st. The conference, held at the Ala Moana Hotel, was attended by approximately 270 people representing more than 230 companies.

“We want to make sure that local businesses and small businesses can learn how to do e-commerce because if they’re not using that platform, they’re wasting their money.” said James Tokioka of the Hawaii State Department. Director of Business Economic Development and Tourism.

Many businesses believe that e-commerce is the new normal and a way to adapt to changing times where consumers prefer to shop online from the comfort of their own space.

“We are so far away from the rest of the world. It's so important to grow and elevate our business and take it outside of Hawaii and share our unique culture and products with the world.” ,” said Lisa Pakele, Entrepreneurship Center Program Director.

Some online-only store owners say it's a good strategy to keep costs down while maximizing profits.

“We're actually thinking of opening a brick-and-mortar store this year,” said Kylie Freitas, owner of Mahina Maid. “Starting online is very advantageous because the cost is much lower than investing in everything that comes with a brick-and-mortar store.”

With more digital stores through platforms like Amazon, state officials hope to improve customer satisfaction with faster and cheaper shipping.

“What e-commerce has done is make the world local. [Amazon] “Getting out into the Pacific Ocean to our shores and having people learn how to do that is why we want to make sure people have this opportunity,” Tokioka said.