Tootler: Lanikai are comparable to Kala. They're generally fine, and fair value. Personally I prefer Kala, but that's just me.

Codger: If the action on your Mainland is high (especially at the nut) then it could well account for the intonation issues. Lowering action at the nut is easy enough - or a guitar shop tech could do it for you. I'd hesitate to write off a Mainland before trying a good setup on it. I've played several and every one that I have tried has been an excellent instrument for the price. Their QC is highly regarded (as is that of Ohana), but they don't always get a good setup before sale. That depends upon the retailer.

I've set up countless 'ukuleles for myself and for friends. Even a dead cheap Makala or Mahalo can usually have good action and intonation once the nut and saddle have been tweaked.