King Store Supermarket Chain Invests $2.7 Million in Flagship Store Upgrade
The Israeli retail market is seeing new developments as the King Store supermarket chain has completed a significant renovation and upgrade of its central branch in the Lev Ha'aretz industrial zone in Rosh Ha'ayin. The investment totals approximately 10 million shekels (about $2.7 million USD).
This upgraded store, spanning about 6,500 square meters, is now the chain's flagship location in Israel. It introduces a new retail concept designed for implementation in all future branches opened by the company over the next two years. A distinguishing feature of King Store is its non-kosher status, offering products like seafood and operating on Saturdays, unlike many other Israeli supermarkets.
Beyond international and local brands, the Rosh Ha'ayin store features authentic Arab and Middle Eastern culinary products, including dairy from the Galilee, baked goods from Arab bakeries, unique spices, and local delicacies. The renovation also incorporates advanced shopping technologies, a redesigned layout for enhanced customer experience, and digital solutions like smart shopping carts and advanced accessibility systems to streamline the purchasing process.
Majdi Khatani, CEO of King Store, stated that the chain's ultimate goal is to go public. "The flagship store in Rosh Ha'ayin is one of our most central and important branches, which is why it was important for us to invest in it and rebuild the shopping experience," he said. "We have launched a store that connects everything customers look for in a large supermarket, variety, convenience, prices, and familiar brands, along with our unique advantage. We are hopeful to go public at the end of the process."
Founded in 2010 as a family business, King Store initially focused on Northern Israel and the Arab community. It has since expanded to approximately 30 branches nationwide, including in cities like Be'er Sheva and Tel Aviv, alongside a significant presence in Arab towns. In 2017, The Phoenix group acquired a 20% stake, with the remaining 80% held by the Al-Mashadawi group. The chain continued its expansion last year, opening new branches in Tayibe and near the Idan HaNegev employment zone.