Press release
Proudly employee-owned
Huggo's is part of the Luana Hospitality Group family, now owned by the people who help welcome our guests every day.
February 17, 2026 · By Yonathan Mickelsen
Employee Owned · ʻOhana Operated
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, and Lava Lava Beach Club in Waikoloa and Kauaʻi, has transitioned 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 continues to operate with the same leadership team and employees in place. Through the ESOP, eligible employees earn economic ownership in the company over time as part of a long-term retirement benefit.
The transition supports Luana Hospitality Group's long-term stability while reinforcing its commitment to employees, guests, and the communities it serves across Hawaiʻi Island and Kauaʻi.
“This is a really special day for us. 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.”
“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.”
“As we thought about the future, it made the most sense for the employees to take ownership in what they work so hard for. 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.’ Now it truly becomes ‘ʻOhana Owned and ʻOhana Operated.’ This creates a serious retirement opportunity in an industry where that hasn't always existed.”
Huggo's, On The Rocks, Kai Eats + Drinks, and Lava Lava Beach Club continue to welcome guests with the same teams and the same spirit of aloha.