Lonohana Chocolate Acquires Hawaii's Largest Cacao Orchard

Lonohana Estate Chocolate has officially taken ownership of the Waialua cacao orchard, previously operated by Dole Food Company. This acquisition positions Lonohana Estate Chocolate as the largest cacao grower in Hawaii, consolidating the state's most significant cacao cultivation under local stewardship.

The move is significant for agricultural land preservation on the island's north shore. Lonohana Estate Chocolate has stated its commitment to using exclusively Hawaii-grown cacao in its products, and this expansion directly supports that objective by increasing its cultivation capacity.

By integrating the Waialua orchard, Lonohana Estate Chocolate aims to enhance its production capabilities and further refine its cacao processing. The company has focused on supporting local agriculture and sustainable farming practices within the cacao industry.

This development is expected to bolster Lonohana Estate Chocolate's role in the local agricultural economy. Specific financial details of the transaction were not immediately disclosed, but the company highlighted the acquisition's importance for the future growth of cacao cultivation in Hawaii.