Former Shufersal Employee Sues for $115,000 After Dismissal

A 67-year-old former Shufersal employee, Ran Donio, is suing the Israeli supermarket chain for 430,000 shekels (approximately $115,000) after being dismissed in August 2025, just ten months before reaching retirement age. Donio, who worked for Shufersal since 1985, initially as a branch deputy manager and later in training and project roles, claims his dismissal was carried out in bad faith and violated his rights.

Donio was summoned for a pre-dismissal hearing in May 2024 as part of a company-wide efficiency program that led to the termination of about 100 employees under the ownership of brothers Yossi and Shlomi Amir. His access to company systems was immediately blocked, and he was told not to return to work. The sudden dismissal caused him significant emotional distress, requiring medical attention. In January 2025, the National Insurance Institute recognized the medical event as a "work accident."

Despite being on sick leave, Shufersal proceeded with his termination. Donio alleges that this action was taken without good faith, depriving him of his right to join the company's retiree club and receive its associated benefits and discounts. The lawsuit also claims violations of the Equal Opportunities in Employment Law.

The requested compensation includes 152,000 shekels for bad faith dismissal and procedural flaws in the hearing, 80,000 shekels for dismissal during illness and emotional distress, and 120,000 shekels for violating the Equal Opportunities in Employment Law, along with reimbursement for car expenses and annual bonuses.

When contacted by Calcalist, Shufersal stated, "The lawsuit has not yet been received by the company, and after its receipt, it will be examined and answered in the appropriate courts."