EAT THINK DRINK

EAT THINK DRINK: Lei of the Land

Protecting Hawai‘i’s Floral Industry

Tuesday, November 18 | 6-9 PM | Prince Waikiki

Hawai‘i’s floral industry—including the cultural tradition of lei, the wedding and events sector, and the broader nursery market—is at a crossroads. Previously a leading agricultural export, Hawai‘i floriculture has declined sharply in the past two decades. Once the top U.S. producer of anthuriums, valued at nearly $12 million in the early 2000s, the crop today generates less than half that value.

Currently, nearly 90% of lei flowers are imported, undercutting local growers and raising concerns about authenticity, sustainability, and cultural resilience. While floriculture remains vital for weddings, tourism, and local traditions, growers face rising costs, labor shortages, pest and disease threats, and generational turnover.

Despite these challenges, floriculture is still a multi-million-dollar industry, with statewide sales estimated at over $40 million annually, supporting hundreds of farms and jobs across Hawai‘i. It is also one of the most visible sectors of agriculture, connecting daily with residents and visitors through lei, events, and cultural practices.

Our next EAT THINK DRINK brings together leaders to ask: How can Hawai‘i protect and revitalize its floral industry to ensure a sustainable future for local growers, cultural practitioners, and businesses? The conversation will explore strengthening flower cultivation, attracting and training the next generation of growers, supporting the wedding and events market, and keeping Hawai‘i’s floral traditions and businesses vibrant for generations to come.

Guests also enjoyed a chef-driven menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients that represent Hawai‘i’s agricultural bounty.