International Market Renovation Includes Roof, Electrical and Building Repairs
You’ve seen the work underway at the former International Market, known locally for generations as “Internationals.” Here’s what’s being done.
The renovation addresses deferred maintenance throughout the building. Interior work includes new lighting, electrical infrastructure brought up to current code, improvements to the existing restroom and fresh paint. Exterior work includes repairs to siding and framing damaged by termites and wood rot, a new roof, repairs to damaged storefronts, replacement of damaged or missing windows and new paint.
The building dates back to the early 1950s and has a direct connection to Lānaʻi’s plantation labor history. During the 1951 pineapple strike, workers pooled money to purchase building materials for strike leader Pedro de la Cruz after he lost his plantation job and considered leaving Lānaʻi. International Food and Clothing Store was built in 1953, with its name honoring the International Longshore and Warehouse Union. The de la Cruz family operated the store for 66 years before it closed at the end of 2019.
The renovation was completed at the end of July, with Aunui Construction Services serving as the general contractor. What comes next for the building has not been determined.