Israeli Consumers Cut Purchases Amid Rising Costs, Survey Finds
Translated & summarized from Al-Shams by baba
A survey indicates that 48% of Israelis are cutting back on planned purchases due to the high cost of living, according to Hanna Elias of the Histadrut. Many consumers are also postponing purchases and setting strict budgets, with 63% limiting spending to under 1,000 shekels. Shoppers are now more focused on shipping costs, return policies, and product quality, leading to a 7% increase in returns for unsatisfactory items.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Nearly half of Israelis are cutting planned purchases due to high living costs.
- 48% of consumers will forgo some planned purchases, according to a survey.
- 68% of participants postponed purchases, hoping to buy later in November.
- 63% of consumers have set a budget of no more than 1,000 shekels.
- 94% of shoppers now check shipping costs before buying.
- 75% of consumers prioritize return policies for unsuitable products.
Nearly half of Israelis plan to forgo some planned purchases due to the high cost of living, according to a survey cited by Hanna Elias, the Histadrut Center in the Safed region. Elias stated in an interview on Radio al-Shams that 48% of respondents intend to reduce their planned shopping. He explained that consumers are no longer treating discounts as an automatic opportunity to buy without considering their needs and budgets, becoming more cautious.
Furthermore, 68% of participants have postponed purchases they intended to make in previous months, hoping to buy during November. However, Elias noted that this postponement does not guarantee completion, as some consumers have decided to forgo certain items altogether. The survey also revealed that 63% of respondents have set a spending budget of no more than 1,000 shekels for this period, a figure Elias described as significantly lower than in previous years.
Consumers are also paying closer attention to details beyond the advertised price or discount. The survey found that 94% of participants check shipping costs before finalizing purchases, while 75% prioritize the terms for canceling orders and returning products if they are unsuitable. Consumers are also examining the country of origin, product quality, and return policies, indicating a shift towards more rational and planned purchasing decisions.
Elias also highlighted an increase in product returns due to quality not meeting expectations, noting a 7% rise compared to the previous year. He believes these experiences have made consumers more attentive to purchase and return conditions, less likely to be swayed solely by promotional campaigns and discounts.
Regarding spending priorities, clothing and footwear remain at the top of consumers' budgets. However, spending on electronics has decreased to approximately 48%, and home decor to about 43%. Elias concluded by emphasizing the importance of planned and wise shopping, urging consumers to review prices, shipping costs, and return policies before making any purchase, and to avoid impulsive decisions driven by sales.
