W.H. Shipman Ltd. says it has “identified a couple temporary spots” for the Keaau Farmers Market and intends to have space available by June 1 so the vendors of the popular market can continue to sell fruits and vegetables to the Keaau community.
“While these spaces will once again be temporary, we are also developing plans for a market location on our agricultural land near Keaau Village,” Haidee Abe, chief financial officer of the Keaau-based landowner and developer, told the Tribune-Herald in an email Friday. “As of Monday, May 6, we have reached out to the individual vendors about providing them with another space in Keaau Village to continue selling their produce and related items.”
On May 3, the five vendors were told to vacate the market, which is on Old Volcano Road in Keaau’s business district, by June 1 and were told the land would be used for “something else.”
Abe said that earlier this year, Shipman “made the very difficult decision to part ways with the management” of the market.
“The lease agreement for the market is with the market manager,” Abe said. “Since the lease agreement … is with the market manager, we were unfortunately, not able to communicate our intentions directly with the market vendors until they first received notification from the manager.”
A letter from Keaau Farmers Market management to vendors dated May 1 read: “It is with deep regret that I inform you that Keaau Farmers Market will be closing as of 06/01/2024. W.H. Shipman Ltd. will be looking to repurpose this location, therefore has terminated our month-to-month lease.
“Although efforts have been made to relocate the market, that has not happened.
“I would like to thank each and every one of you for your business over the years, and my hope is that you will find success in relocating.”
As vendors shared the news with their customers and suppliers, a tempest brewed in the teapot known as social media.
“I know I’m not the only one who values the convenience and quality of produce these vendors provide,” posted one, who accused Shipman of “rapaciousness.” “They were moved from the old vending square where Longs now sits, years ago. Now being removed indefinitely. … After years and generations of service, when it comes to (money) people will discard you with a 30 day notice and wishful thinking.”
Another called the situation “crazy.”
“You know how many locals earn a living at the farmers market out here in Puna,” the poster wrote.
“This is not okay. An alternative location needs to be provided right away.”
Abe said that Shipman, which owns 17,000 acres of land in Puna, said a smooth relocation of the farmers market is important.
“W.H. Shipman remains committed to supporting all forms of agriculture on Hawaii Island and is very much aware of the vital role that the vendors of Keaau Village Market play in our community,” she said.
Email John Burnett at jburnett@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com.