Lawsuits are underway alleging that King’s Hawaiian is misleading customers by making it seem that its renowned sweet rolls are still made in the Aloha state.
The class-action suit was filed last week by Sheehan & Associates PC, a law office in New York, accusing the 70-year-old bread company of incorrect labeling, which gives customers the impression their rolls are from Hawaii.
The lawsuit claims customers wouldn’t have bought them if they had known the bread is made in California and Georgia.
Company records indicate that while the original Hawaiian-born founder, Robert Taira, opened a bakery in Hilo, Hawaii, in 1950, additional production spots have now opened on the mainland.
King’s Hawaiian’s website clarifies they opened in Torrance, California, in 1977 to meet customer demand and then a Flowery Branch, Georgia, spot in 2010 to better serve the East Coast.
However, Robert Taira is still listed on the packaging under the brand’s name and established date in Hilo, Hawaii, leading many customers to believe the product is still made in Hawaii. The lawsuit requests unspecified damages and a change in labeling so that customers are not misled.
Missing: King’s Hawaiian 24pk monolith. Please alert us if found.⠀ pic.twitter.com/J3X8Vgud0F
— KING’S HAWAIIAN (@KingsHawaiian) December 2, 2020
King’s Hawaiian has yet to comment on the lawsuit.
Marketing and production concerns aside, King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls have been a favorite among many for many years and remain a popular treat. Its slightly sweet taste and fluffy texture make it a breakfast item many can’t resist, with sales continuing to rise yearly.
Time will tell if the lawsuit has merit or the sweet roll production stays on the mainland. Should a change be made, customers will surely be in the know when it comes to where their favorite rolls are made.
