The 106,972-square-foot Kmart store in Kahului was recently renovated to improve flow. The store's expansive grocery offerings include Latin and Oriental food sections.

KAHULUI – Bluelight Specials are back at Kmart, and the entire store recently went through a renovation.

Store Manager Michael Swaboski said the renovations gave the 424 Dairy Road store improved flow and an extended Pantry Department.

“It was a needed addition, as visitors and residents ask for convenience – a one-stop shop, per say. For the visitor, it makes it a quick stop before they begin their vacation for the essentials while they are here. When they are leaving, they stop for the gifts for the dog sitter, secretary, neighbor – anyone they need to pick up a special gift for. The resident can find everything they need and pick up dinner on the way home from work,” he explained.

Within the past year, Kmart reinstituted Bluelight Specials. There are at least two a day, and the specials are always great bargains.

“Members look forward to hearing those announcements and looking for the blue light,” Swaboski said. “Residents know that Bluelight Specials are back, and while they are shopping, the Bluelight Special for the day may be just what they needed – or not, but the deal is too great to pass up.”

The 106,972-square-foot store strives to stock items to meet the needs of everyone in the family. Kmart also has

Latin and Oriental food sections not many know about, “and our prices are better than some of the large chain grocers,” Swaboski said.

Kmart was the first big retailer in Kahului, opening in August 1993 – “right after Woolworths closed, we filled the gap. We still have employees that opened the store in 1993. We are part of this community,” he added.

The store’s over 130 employees support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and March of Dimes. Working with Lion’s Club members, Kmart this year supported 60 children in “Shop with a Cop.” Swaboski said that “it is one of our most loved events, and our employees really get behind it.”

West Maui residents and visitors can learn about featured sale items in Kmart’s weekly flyer that comes out every Sunday; visit www.Kmart.com to look at the local ad. Customers can place an order online and pick it up at the store.

Top-selling items at Kmart vary by season. Right now, summer beach toys are popular.

“We are always adding new products; the only way to know is to come in and visit with us. You will be glad you did,” he concluded.