Video by David Corrigan
HILO, Hawaii – The management building of local distribution giant Suisan, Ltd. continued to smolder on Friday morning, after it was seriously damaged by fire overnight
No one was hurt in the structure fire, which burned through the night while county firefighters battled the blaze. Police still had Kamehameha Avenue blocked off at 8 a.m. Smoke was still visible, leaving through the heavily damaged roof.
Suisan Company, Ltd. is Hawaii Island’s foremost fish market and food distributor, and no interruption of service is expected. The company says operations are continuing, and while there might be some delays, the company’s fleet of 33 trucks was not affected.
“No one was injured, so we are thankful,” said Glenn Hashimoto, president of Suisan Group. “We are resilient and will work things out.” He thanked the Suisan ohana for its quick pulling together to keep operations and deliveries moving.
The building is located in the warehouse complex between Kamehameha and Kalanianaole Avenue by Keaukaha, and housed Suisan’s business and management offices. The century-old company boasts annual sales of $81 million and employs 175 people as fish cutters, computer analysts, administrative assistants, and truck drivers.
The company says it and its insurance carrier will determine extent of damage once the fire inspectors have finished their work. At this time, the company says the cause is unknown.
“We must add that we are moved by the outpouring of support and kind words that have come to us from our customers, vendors, the business community, including competitors.” Hashimoto added. “Mahalo to our Hawaii Island community.”
