Talk Story with an Advertiser: Parker Ranch Store

The Parker Ranch Store is locally owned and operated and has been in business since 1988. Owners Randy Kurohara and Connie Ichinose saw the tremendous opportunity that the Parker Ranch Store had to support their vision of promoting their Aloha Grown brand and mission: support local, sustain the ‘āina, and share the aloha.

Connie and Randy acquired the store in 2010 during a down economy, but that didn’t deter their tremendous faith in both the management and staff. In addition, they wanted to keep the ownership local and with a vested interest in Hawai‘i Island. They see the Parker Ranch Store as a cornerstone to the Waimea experience.

“The Parker Ranch Store is more than just a clothing and gift store. It is a part of our Waimea community, connecting our community and visitors with the rich history of Parker Ranch and the paniolo lifestyle,” says Randy.

Connie and Randy feel that Parker Ranch Store supports the vibrant culture of sustainability that resonates from historic Waimea town with its rich ranching history.

“We feature some of the best locally grown and made products; original and exclusive clothing and accessories that promote our sense of environment, our culture, and our farming and ranching lifestyle,” says Randy.

“We also saw the opportunity to help shape the future of the Parker Ranch Store through new merchandising and branding efforts in addition to a more vertical integration with our other business, Creative Arts Hawaii,” says Connie.

Store manager Tracey Akau says that the Parker Ranch Store supports local products by promoting merchandise from more than 50 different local businesses. Products range from soaps to coffee, clothing, art, lotions, cookies, and much more.

“We [also] give back to the community through our Aloha Grown Malama Honua fund that has provided grant funds to local schools and organizations that promote sustainability through education and service. Through the Malama Honua, two percent of all Aloha Grown products sales are set aside to give back to the community annually,” Tracey explains.

The owners say they see Parker Ranch Store playing a bigger role in keeping the history of the Parker Ranch and the paniolo lifestyle alive. As our community continues to seek greener and more sustainable solutions, they will do their part in promoting this as well.

Parker Ranch Center
67-1185 Mamalahoa Hwy E126, Kamuela
808.885.5669
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