Business View Magazine Dec-2022

89 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 9, ISSUE 12 ROY YAMAGUCHI RESTAURANTS S e r v i n g H a w a i i s i n c e 1 9 8 1 w w w . h a m p r o d u c e a n d s e a f o o d . c o m h a m p r o d u c e s e a f o o d Hawaii-based HAM Produce and Seafood is one of the largest wholesale distributors of fresh fruits, vegetables and seafood. For over 40 years, HAM has offered their expertise, reliable service and quality products to the foodservice industry. Their continued growth, same day delivery service and innovative approach have easily made them the most sought after wholesale distributor on the island! To learn more, visit our website: www.hamproduceandseafood.com It hasn’t always been smooth sailing, however. The COVID-19 pandemic hit the hospitality industry harder than perhaps any other. Mr Yamaguchi explains, “At the end of the day, we can only do what we can do. Following the pandemic, we have had to pick ourselves up, reboot, and look at our future to see how we can maintain and grow our customer base. Moving forward, it’s all about advancement. How can we continue to foster our culture, how can we best protect and support our staff after what was probably the biggest challenge any restaurant owner could face? Without staff, your hands are tied. It’s crucial that we continue to maintain and add to our staff base, bringing in new and established talent, and build upon our brands together.” A strong sense of company culture is paramount in Mr. Yamaguchi’s restaurants, he says. “The reason why we’re still in existence after more than 30 years is we work collaboratively with staff and treat them well. Respect is huge and it goes