HILO – Downtown Hilo’s new marketing identity was unveiled February 19th during the Annual Membership Meeting of the Downtown Improvement Association.

The re-branding of Downtown Hilo was a big decision. Hilo DIA board members explained their rationale to the general membership gathered at the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center.

A new logo by Sig Zane Designs will replace the image that has long been associated with the town. During his presentation of the new design, Ku’hao Zane acknowledged the former logo, and its creator, Nelson Makua.

Sig Zane Designs was commissioned to do the work, but in lieu of their usual fee, the Hilo-based Zane family business only asked that a donation be made to the Merrie Monarch Festival, the state’s premier hula event. The Hilo DIA gifted $5,000.

With the new look comes a coordinated effort to promote the new image. Downtown Hilo has hired a new team to work on its website. Also, Downtown Hilo is ramping up its social media presence.