Luana Hospitality Group Transitions to Employee Ownership Through ESOP

Luana Hospitality Group, the Hawaiʻi-based hospitality company behind Huggo’s, On The Rocks, Kai Eats + Drinks, Lava Lava Beach Club Waikoloa and Kauaʻi, has announced its transition from private ownership to employee ownership through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

Previously owned by Eric von Platen Luder and Scott Dodd, the company will continue to operate “business as usual,” with the same leadership team and employees in place. Through the ESOP, eligible employees will earn economic ownership in the company over time as part of a long-term retirement benefit.

“This is a really special day for us,” said Jolene Mears, Vice President of Luana Hospitality Group. “When you’re a shareholder, you don’t just work for the company—you’re invested in it. Every decision matters more, whether it’s improving efficiency, reducing waste, enhancing the guest and team experience, or strengthening the company for the future.”

Jose Fuentes, President of Luana Hospitality Group, emphasized that the ESOP was designed to reward the people who have built the company. “This is a meaningful retirement plan for our employees—the people who do everything for the company and have helped make it what it is today. Scott and Eric remain a big part of the team, and our guests can expect the same exceptional hospitality they’ve come to know.”

For founders Eric von Platen Luder and Scott Dodd, the transition reflects long-held values. “As we thought about the future, it made the most sense for the employees to take ownership in what they work so hard for,” said von Platen Luder. “They made this company a success, and now they get to share in the benefits.”

“Our motto has always been ‘Family Owned and ʻOhana Operated,’” added Dodd. “Now it truly becomes ‘ʻOhana Owned and ʻOhana Operated.’ This creates a serious retirement opportunity in an industry where that hasn’t always existed.”

The transition positions Luana Hospitality Group for long-term stability while reinforcing its commitment to employees, guests, and the communities it serves across Hawaiʻi Island and Kauaʻi.

About Luana Hospitality Group
Luana Hospitality Group is a Hawaiʻi-based hospitality company known for its collection of iconic oceanfront restaurants that celebrate local culture, community, and the spirit of aloha. The company operates Huggo’s, On The Rocks, Kai Eats + Drinks, and Lava Lava Beach Club across Hawaiʻi Island and Kauaʻi, offering memorable guest experiences rooted in place, people, and hospitality. Guided by its philosophy of being ʻohana operated, Luana Hospitality Group is committed to its employees, guests, and the communities it serves.