Full Breakdown
New 15-Year Lease Secures Kauai Coffee’s Future
6/28/2026, 1:33:24 AM
Core Event & Background
On June 26 2026 Kauai Coffee Company signed a 15-year agricultural lease with landowner Brue Baukol Capital Partners (BBCP). The deal preserves roughly 140 jobs and guarantees continued operation of the 3,100-acre farm in Kalaheo. Negotiations began after the previous lease expired on March 28 2026 and a WARN notice in January warned of up to 136 layoffs, prompting concerns from the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 142 and Kaua‘i County Council Chair Mel Rapozo.
Data & Statistics
The farm cultivates about 4 million coffee trees, producing roughly 2 million pounds of coffee annually. Revenue rose 209 % to about $25 million through 2025. The visitor center draws more than 350,000 guests each year, and the Fair Trade Community Development program has invested $640,000 in West Side projects.
Impact on Community & Agriculture
Preserving the lease secures employment for 140 workers, enables new skilled-trade hires, and sustains agritourism that supports Kaua‘i’s tourism economy. It also keeps 3,100 acres of Important Agricultural Land in productive use and gives BBCP flexibility to explore additional crops on uncultivated sections.
Official Statements
Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA President Matthew Smith said the lease provides stability for the local team, community and land. BBCP Vice President James Priestley noted the agreement preserves jobs, maintains productive agricultural use and opens opportunities for new activities. General Manager Brian Kubicki affirmed that the lease secures the workforce and enables future job creation.
Criticism & Opposition
The International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 142 warned that the threatened layoffs would harm workers and the local economy. Council Chair Mel Rapozo earlier criticized the lack of communication and urged the company to brief the council on its plans.
Community Voices
Visitor-center manager Darla Domingo called the lease signing “like the weight is lifted,” while tour-truck driver Roger Taniguchi said, “I can sleep good,” reflecting relief among employees.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
BBCP chief executive Chad Brue announced in early March that the lease would not be renewed, a claim later contradicted by the June 26 agreement. The WARN notice projected 136 layoffs, yet the final lease preserved all 140 positions, leaving a discrepancy in the public record.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s like the weight is lifted,” — Darla Domingo, Marketing and Visitor Center Manager, Kauai Coffee
- “I can sleep good,” — Roger Taniguchi, Tour-Truck Driver, Kauai Coffee
- “We believe completely in the local team, the community, and the land,” — Matthew Smith, President, Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA
- “ James Priestley, vice president of Brue Baukol, said in a written announcement, “We are excited about the future of Kauai Coffee and proud to support the continued growth of one of Hawaii’s most iconic agricultural brands.” — James Priestley, Vice President, Brue Baukol Capital Partners
What’s Next
Kauai Coffee will launch hiring drives for welders, electricians, mechanics and hospitality staff to modernize farm operations and expand visitor experiences. The lease also allows BBCP to evaluate new crops or agribusiness projects on uncultivated acreage, potentially diversifying the island’s agricultural output.
