Posted on: Saturday, September 20, 2003

BUSINESS BRIEFS
Mac nut grower cuts dividend

Advertiser Staff

Big Island macadamia nut grower ML Macadamia Orchards said yesterday it will cut its quarterly dividend to 3 cents per share from 5 cents. The dividend will be paid on Nov. 14 to shareholders of record as of Sept. 30.

Macadamia Orchards reported last month that it lost $185,000, or 2 cents per share, in the second quarter of this year, compared with a loss of $241,000, or 3 cents per share, in the same period in 2002.

Toshiba buys office-ware firm

Toshiba American Business Solutions Inc. yesterday announced the acquisition of Hawaii Business Equipment Inc. The office equipment dealer will sell Toshiba products and services in its locations on O'ahu, Maui and the Big Island.

Former Hawaii Business Equipment owner and President Renee Gomes will continue to oversee the company's Hawai'i operations.