In a recent interview, Farm Link CEO Claire Sullivan shared insights into her company's mission to make local food more accessible to residents across Hawaii. The launch of Hōʻiliʻili Market, Farm Link's first-ever grocery store, marks a significant step in realizing this goal. Located on South Beretania Street, the store provides a physical retail space to complement Farm Link's existing online marketplace, further bridging the gap between local food producers and consumers. Aloha State Daily reports on the new store's opening.
Farm Link, founded by and for farmers in 2015, acts as a pivotal link in Hawaii's food ecosystem, connecting over 330 local farmers, ranchers, and food makers with consumers. The company's online platform offers a wide array of products, from fresh produce and meat to pantry staples and prepared foods, with home delivery services available across Oahu seven days a week. This direct-to-consumer model, as highlighted by Omidyar Fellows, helps ensure that local food is accessible, including providing free delivery for those using SNAP-EBT benefits.
Sullivan's vision goes beyond mere convenience; it's about transforming Hawaii’s local food production into a thriving industry. By streamlining supply chains and providing a reliable marketplace, Farm Link supports local farmers and contributes to a more sustainable food system. This commitment is especially critical given the challenges faced by local producers. The Honolulu Magazine notes that access to fresh food is made more convenient by Farm Link. The initiative is a practical effort to address food access issues and promote a more robust local economy.
Farm Link's approach underlines the importance of direct connections between producers and consumers. As detailed by Reinvestment Fund, Farm Link’s commitment not only increases access to nutritious food but also strengthens the economic viability of local agriculture. The company’s success demonstrates the potential for innovative business models to make a positive impact on Hawaii's community.
