Hawaii Airports: Opportunity for Local Artisans & Businesses

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) has selected International Shoppes (iShoppes) to manage retail and duty-free concessions at both Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu and Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui, effective April 1, 2026. The changeover marks the finish of DFS Hawaii’s long-term operation of shops at the two airports.

Novel York-based iShoppes, partnering with Ben Crump Enterprises, will assume operations under a ten-year contract. The company plans to renovate existing DFS spaces while maintaining continuous retail service during the transition, according to HDOT. In addition to the existing retail footprint, iShoppes will develop two new specialty retail spaces within the Mauka Concourse of Terminal 1 at HNL.

HDOT Director Ed Sniffen stated that the partnership with International Shoppes will “bring an elevated retail experience” to both airports. He also emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting local businesses and artisans by featuring Hawai‘i-made products alongside international brands.

The move follows DFS Group’s decision to exit its Hawaiian airport and downtown operations, a decision announced in January and stemming from a review of the company’s global network, according to a November 2024 interview with Chairman & CEO Ed Brennan reported by The Moodie Davitt Report. The shift reflects changing market conditions in Hawai‘i in recent years.

iShoppes intends to showcase products from across the state, providing opportunities for local businesses and artisans to reach a wider customer base and gain international exposure. The company is also actively recruiting, inviting current DFS employees and other applicants to apply for positions at the Honolulu and Kahului locations.

Matthew Greenbaum, co-CEO of International Shoppes, stated that the company has “spent generations building airport retail programs rooted in integrity, partnership, and long-term sustainability for all stakeholders.”

The HDOT anticipates that iShoppes’ investment will benefit the state economy and support the local artisan community. The department has not yet released details regarding specific criteria for selecting local vendors or the percentage of retail space dedicated to Hawai‘i-made products.