Kamari Retail Acquires 50% Stake in Zalman's Sausage Chain

Kamari Retail has purchased a 50% stake in Zalman's, a kosher fast-food chain specializing in American-style hot dogs and sausages. The deal, which values Zalman's at approximately 7 million shekels, will see Kamari pay around 3.5 million shekels for its half share. Zalman's currently operates 12 branches across Israel, primarily serving the Haredi community, and is known for its strict kosher certification.

Under the agreement, Kamari Retail will partner in the operation and development of Zalman's in Israel, including opening new branches. The companies aim to expand the chain to about 20 branches by the end of the year and eventually to 40 nationwide. This expansion will involve investments in new stores, infrastructure, branding, and product development.

Kamari Retail, which operates over 130 convenience stores under brands like Seven Express and Candyland, and holds franchises for more than 50 food and retail outlets including Arcafe and Roladin, sees Zalman's as a brand with significant potential. Assaf Kamari, an owner of Kamari Retail, stated that they identified Zalman's as a brand with a strong story and excellent product, capable of becoming a nationwide kosher fast-food chain. He emphasized their goal to maintain the brand's quality and character while introducing it to new audiences.

Moshe Zalman Olive, owner of Zalman's, expressed that the partnership with Kamari will enable the chain to broaden its reach and attract more customers, while preserving the brand's existing characteristics. Kamari Retail's ownership is divided among Assaf Kamari (33.4%), the Hodaya group (33.3%), and Tony Ziv and Yossi Mizrahi who jointly hold the remaining 33.3%.