The slowdown in the visitor industry and the economy have led tour operator Roberts Hawaii to lay off 10 employees.

The majority of the positions were administrative, said company spokesman Dave Mark. He said the employees were notified of their termination July 3.

Also, Mark said company president Neil Takekawa resigned from his post July 29 after 18 months with the company.

Mark said Takekawa's departure was not related to the layoffs.

Deems Narimatsu, senior vice president, said the downturn in the number of visitors to the islands played a factor in the layoffs. He said the company still employs about 1,400 people.

"The company continually analyzes business conditions and adjusts the size of its workforce to remain efficient," Narimatsu said. "Business climate dictates whether Roberts Hawaii workforce expands or contracts."