Max Stock CEO Credits Discount Format for Record Growth Amidst Market Shifts
Udi Max, CEO and founder of the Israeli retail chain Max Stock, continues to embody the spirit of a hands-on merchant despite leading a public company that has achieved record sales and profits. Max Stock reported a 12.7% increase in revenue to NIS 379 million in the second quarter of 2026, with net profit soaring by 30% to NIS 35.9 million. The company's stock performance has also been strong, significantly outperforming its peers on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.
Max attributes the company's success to a consistent business principle established since its first store opened: providing customers with the best product at the best price, ensuring they feel they received more than they paid for. He emphasizes the importance of delegation and empowering a strong management team, a significant personal evolution for him as a leader. Despite market factors like the strengthening shekel, which aided imports, Max insists that the core of the success lies in diligent management, including expanding product variety, opening new stores, optimizing the supply chain, and increasing direct imports.
Max Stock has expanded its operations significantly, and Max sees ample room for further growth in the Israeli market, dismissing the idea of a "glass ceiling." He notes that demand for Max Stock stores extends beyond Israel, with inquiries from abroad. Recently, Max sold NIS 50 million worth of shares, and the private equity firm Apex has reduced its stake, though Max maintains his commitment and belief in the company he founded.
While Max's personal identification with Max Stock is profound, he asserts that the company's management has developed a strong organizational DNA that extends beyond him. He is exploring potential investments outside of the core business, both personally and through Max Stock, adhering to transparency as a public company. Max believes the discount retail format is particularly successful in an expensive country like Israel, fostering healthy competition that benefits consumers.
He acknowledges the growing competition from global online giants like Temu and AliExpress, stating that Max Stock monitors them closely and that they share similarities in offering low-cost products. However, Max does not foresee online retail replacing physical stores, viewing them as complementary. He believes customers still value the in-store experience of touching products and enjoying the shopping outing. Max's entrepreneurial drive, forged through early business setbacks, continues to fuel his dedication to the company, now operating 65 branches.
