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

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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.