Kaimuki Dry Goods to Close After Century of Business
The historic Honolulu fabric shop on 10th Avenue will permanently shut its doors on December 15, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Kaimuki Dry Goods, a longtime staple in the community for sewing supplies and services, is set to close permanently on December 15, 2026. The shop has served the area for 100 years.
Why it matters
The owner of the business decided to cease operations due to the combined impact of rising costs and tariffs. This closure marks the end of a century-long legacy in the Kaimuki neighborhood.
The store operated for a total of 100 years, with employee Lois Lau serving the business for 13 years. The shop provided fabrics, sewing essentials, classes, and repair services.
The players
Jessie Miller
She took over the shop in 2022 and currently serves as the owner.
Bill Miller
He was a co-owner of the store who passed away in 2024.
Lois Lau
She has been a dedicated employee of the establishment for 13 years.
The details
Located on 10th Avenue, the shop provided fabrics and sewing machine repairs to local residents. Jessie and Bill Miller had taken over management of the store in 2022 prior to Bill Miller passing away in 2024.
Timeline
2022: Jessie and Bill Miller assumed ownership of the shop.
2024: Bill Miller passed away.
October 19, 2026: Customers learned of the store closure.
December 15, 2026: The business will close its doors permanently.
Market Landscape
The closure reflects the ongoing retail decline of traditional independent fabric and craft stores facing economic challenges. This move marks a notable departure for the local Kaimuki business corridor.
Customers looking for sewing supplies, machine repairs, or classes in the area will need to find alternative service providers by mid-December. The closure removes a long-standing local resource for the sewing community.
The takeaway
Legacy local businesses are increasingly sensitive to shifts in global trade policy and rising operational overhead. Residents should finalize any outstanding repairs or supply needs well before the December deadline.
Further reading
For more information on local business activity, visit the Honolulu Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KHON2.
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