Reflections of the Heart, a fine-jewelry store in Kahala Mall, plans to close Sept. 29 and make way for a new concept store.
Donald Olson, owner of the specialty shop, says he wants to move on to creating a concept retail store that would set it apart from the competition.
The competition locally in the small but profitable business of designer-wear and stone jewelry has increased exponentially in the past few years, Olson said.
Large national chains such as Tiffany's and Harry Winston have opened stores in Hawaii to tap into the pockets of Japanese tourists and well-heeled locals.
Independent operators like Olson say they feel the pinch.
"We are going in a new direction," he said. "We need to make a shift and offer Hawaii high-end, unique pieces, the kind you see on Desperate Housewives and other TV shows."
Olson wouldn't disclose more details about the new business except to say he is looking at possibly two locations. One would be continuing his lease at Kahala Mall and another involves a prominent space, still under negotiations.
Reflections of the Heart opened at Kahala Mall almost five years ago. The 1,200-square-foot store sells handcrafted glass pieces, knickknacks and jewels.
The store employs eight people, who are expected to move on to the new business. Its going-out-of-business sale started Wednesday.
Source: bizjournals
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