Hawaii Tourism Authority Collaborates with Three Restaurant Chains on Loco Moco Menu

The Hawaii Tourism Authority collaborated with McDonald's Japan, Skylark, and Lawsonto certifyproducts related to the "Loco Moco" they will sell this summeras " LOCOMOCO ALLSTARS ."On July 4th, they held an "Official Product Launch Event" at Prism Hall in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo.
Loco Moco is a traditional Hawaiian local dish combining meat, egg, and vegetables, popular in Japan as a summer energy food.

At the start, Director Eric Takahatatouched onthe long-standing close relationship between Hawaii and Japan, as well as variousHawaii PR activitiesconducted in Japan,stating, "This year, we chose 'Loco Moco' as the campaign theme. Eat Loco Moco to beat the summer heat, and please come visit Hawaii."He announced thatJuly 11th would be designated "Loco Moco Day," based on the pun "Natsu no Ii Hi" (Good Summer Day), andthatthe Loco Moco products released by the three companieswould be officially recognized by the Hawaii Tourism Authority as " LOCOMOCO ALLSTARS ."
At Director Takahata's invitation,representatives from the three companies appearedon stagewearing aloha shirts.

Sarah Casanova, President of McDonald's Japan, stated,"For the past two years, we've offered tourism board-certified Loco Moco burgers for limited time. This time, we're adding new flavors,offering three types of burgers and drinks." She introduced items like the "Summer Curry Loco Moco" and "Cheese Loco Moco," adding, "We hope you'll enjoy the Loco Moco burger and feel the spirit of Hawaii."

Sukiyaki President Makoto Tanistated," We're participating with the 'Cheese IN Loco Moco Bowl,' which reimaginesGusto's signature 'Cheese IN Hamburger Steak' with Japanese-style sauce.It's groundbreaking for three companies with different business models to simultaneously offer Loco Moco." He also introduced Gusto's ongoing Hawaiian Fair and the Hawaiian restaurant recently opened in Yokohama.

Lawson President Sadanobu Takemasu stated, "We're challenging with a Loco Moco flavor (demiglace sauce flavor) of our traditional 'Karaage-kun' fried chicken. We'll also release Loco Moco-style pasta and hamburger buns, aiming to bring the spirit of Loco Moco into our stores." He further highlighted ties with Hawaii by mentioning a Hawaii bonding trip for store owners and introducing Lawson stores operating locally.

Director Takahata and the three executivesposed for a commemorative photo together, chanting"Summer means Loco Moco!! "
The Tourism Bureauwill also launch a Twitter campaign starting July 11th, offering a chance to win round-trip airfare to Hawaii.
Following the press conference, a tasting event for media representatives was held at the venue, featuring products from each company.