Kona MacNet
Brian Parnell, manager of Kona MacNet, is passionate about “all things Apple.” It’s a good thing, because he shares that passion with everyone who walks into the store in the Henry Street Shops in Kailua-Kona. Parnell has been the manager of numerous Apple computer stores, including one on Maui several years ago. From there he moved to South Carolina, where he owned his own Apple reseller store for several years.
When the opportunity came to move to Kona to run Kona MacNet, Brian and his wife Sue were happy to return to Hawai‘i. They have been on the island for more than a year, and Brian says they really like where they are living and especially like the sunsets.
“I had been aware of the Kona market for many years,” he said. “There appeared to be a need on the Big Island for a good Apple authorized reseller that was also authorized to service Macs.”
The store, which opened in 2008, has its own service manager, Cleland Austin, who moved in from California to run the service department. “Josh Brunner is our most recent hire and brings his love for all things Mac,” Brian says.
Since the store opened, it’s taken awhile to build awareness in the market, he says. “We want to make sure that people know we are here and that we have a well-stocked showroom and qualified staff to sell and repair their Macs. We are a one-stop shop for all your Apple needs.”
The business caters to all age groups since they offer Apple products ranging from iPods to iPads to Mac computers, accessories and software. “Kona MacNet is continually fine-tuning our product mix. We’d like people to let us know of any products that they think we should stock at the store. Customer input and continued patronage is greatly appreciated,” Brian said.
Kona MacNet often hosts FREE events with national guest speakers to teach people on a variety of topics. Previous guest speakers have been from Canon, Adobe, Apple, and Lacie and more presentations are planned in 2011.
75-1022 Henry St., across the street from Safeway and next to Starbucks
808.329.6227 (MACS)
