Hawaii.com launches deals marketplace for local businesses

Hawaii.com is opening a new deals marketplace in early September to connect Hawaiʻi travelers and residents with discounts across the islands. Local businesses can list offers for free through September, with paid plans starting at $50 a month after launch.

Why it matters: - Hawaii.com Deals gives Hawaiʻi businesses a new way to reach travelers and residents looking for savings on lodging, activities, dining, shopping and other island experiences. - The marketplace is designed to make it easier for visitors to compare offers in one place instead of searching business by business. - The launch could help local merchants fill bookings and drive more direct redemptions through their own websites or booking pages.

What happened: - Hawaii.com invited local businesses to submit offers for a new Deals marketplace launching to consumers in the first week of September. - The marketplace will feature discounts and offers from businesses across Hawaiʻi. - Businesses can submit deals during August for review and possible inclusion in the launch. - Listings can be submitted now at Hawaii.com deal submission page.

The details: - Users will be able to search and filter deals by island, category and eligibility. - Eligible categories include accommodations, activities, restaurants and bars, retail and other experiences. - Offers can be open to all customers or limited to Kamaʻāina and military audiences. - Businesses can include offer details, eligibility requirements, promo codes, blackout dates and other restrictions. - Each listing will link directly to the business's website or booking page. - The first month is free for businesses. - After the launch period, Hawaii.com will charge an introductory rate of $50 per month. - Businesses can cancel at any time. - The marketplace will cover Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi Island and Lānaʻi. - Eligible offers may include special rates or packages, percentage-off promotions, dollar-off promotions and other ongoing or limited-time offers.

Between the lines: - Hawaii.com is using the deals platform to deepen its role in trip planning, not just destination content. - The mix of public, Kamaʻāina and military discounts suggests the company is aiming at both visitors and local residents. - Direct links to business booking pages may make the marketplace more useful for conversion than a simple directory.

What's next: - Businesses interested in the September launch need to submit offers during August. - Hawaii.com will review submissions before the consumer-facing launch in early September. - The company will likely use the launch period to test demand before businesses decide whether to continue at the monthly rate.

The bottom line: - Hawaii.com is building a centralized discounts marketplace for Hawaiʻi travel, and local businesses can join at no cost for the first month.