Log in

Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

         

RMH IN THE PRESS


Sports Tourism in Hawaiʻi: RMH Joins PBS Hawai‘i Panel

Dave Erdman, Interim President and CEO of the Retail Merchants of Hawaiʻi, joined a distinguished panel discussing the future of sports tourism in Hawaiʻi on PBS Hawai‘i.

Other panelists included:

  • Rep. Adrian Tam (D) – Tourism Committee Chair

  • James Tokioka – Director, Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism

  • Sen. Samantha DeCorte (R) – Minority Floor Leader

The discussion explored whether Hawaiʻi has the infrastructure and resources to become a leading destination for sports tourism. Lawmakers are examining the potential benefits and costs of hosting events such as marathons, golf tournaments, and pickleball competitions to attract “high-spending visitors.”

Air Date: Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, 7:30 PM
Watch the full panel discussion on YouTube



Retail Merchants of Hawai‘i Highlight Export Challenges in Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Dave Erdman, Interim President and CEO of the Retail Merchants of Hawai‘i (RMH), is featured in a recent column by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser exploring Hawaii’s economic path forward. The piece, “Amid uncertainty, Hawai‘i’s path forward includes expanding exports,” draws on a survey conducted by the Hawaii Pacific Export Council (HPEC) with participation from RMH members and other industry partners.

Key findings include:

  • 86% of local businesses impacted by tariffs and trade policy changes

  • 91% reporting higher costs of goods

  • 65% raising prices

  • More than half expecting profitability declines exceeding 10%

The survey captures the challenges faced by retailers, distributors, manufacturers, and service providers across Hawaii as they navigate an uncertain trade landscape.

Read the full column on the Star-Advertiser

e komo mai to our 2025 new members:

Member Benefits include but not limited to...

Committees:

Join one of our committees to stay informed.

  • Future of Retail Merchants
  • Hawaiian Culture Committee
  • Security Committee
  • Education & Human Resources
  • and more...


Networking Events:

Enjoy a fun day to connect with professionals from your industry.

  • Annual Ho'okela Awards 
  • Annual Golf Tourney
  • General Membership Meeting
  • Networking Mixers
  • and more...

Legislative Update:

Monthly meetings with elected officials, working with the community and government entities, reviewing legislation, providing testimony on issues that may have an impact on your operations and more.



About us

For nearly 120 years, Retail Merchants of Hawaii has served as the voice of Hawaii’s retail industry. We are a vibrant and creative collective of the best in retail that advocates, educates and celebrates our statewide retail industry.

Our Goals

  • Advocate for the retail industry in government and the community.
  • Provide educational opportunities, resources and timely information.
  • Promote the welfare of the retail industry and our communities.
  • Foster networking and partnership opportunities. 

 



Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software