Hawaiian Host Inc., Honolulu, has acquired Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corp., Kea’au, HI, from The Hershey Co., Hershey, PA. Mauna Loa joins Hawaiian Host as a subsidiary.

“Both Hawaiian Host and Mauna Loa will continue as distinct, separate brands, offering the same level of quality products our customers have grown to expect,” says Keith Sakamoto, president and CEO of Hawaiian Host. “The two brands will complement each other. Hawaiian Host will continue to emphasize its chocolate macadamia products, while Mauna Loa will emphasize its salted macadamias and other macadamia snack products.”

Together, Hawaiian Host and Mauna Loa will have more than 300 employees in Hawaii and will continue its commitment to support local growers and farmers.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Hawaiian Host,” adds Sakamoto. “We not only look forward to welcoming Mauna Loa and its employees to our family, but together, building on our long legacies of sharing our high-quality products with the world."