Shufersal Store in Arad Converts to Haredi Format Amid Price Hike Fears
Translated & summarized from Cursorinfo by baba
Shufersal is converting one of its Arad supermarkets to a "Yesh Chesed" format catering to the ultra-Orthodox community, sparking fears of higher prices and reduced selection among secular residents. The change follows the mall's acquisition by businessmen representing the Gur Hasidic movement, who plan to adapt it for religious needs. This reflects Arad's growing ultra-Orthodox population, now comprising 30% of residents.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Shufersal is converting an Arad supermarket to a "Yesh Chesed" format for the ultra-Orthodox community.
- Secular residents fear reduced product variety and increased prices due to stricter kosher standards.
- The mall housing the store was purchased by Gur Hasidic businessmen Menachem Kain and Simcha Greenboim.
- The new owners aim to adapt the mall for the needs of the religious population.
- Ultra-Orthodox residents now make up 30% of Arad's population, influencing city services.
Israel's largest retail chain, Shufersal, is converting one of its two "Deal" format supermarkets in Arad to a "Yesh Chesed" format, which caters to the ultra-Orthodox community. The affected branch is located in the old city center mall, but all current staff will retain their positions. The change involves introducing products with stricter kosher certification, leading to concerns among secular residents about a reduced product selection and potential price increases, particularly for items like meat, which are typically more expensive with stringent kashrut.
Shufersal stated that both the "Deal" and "Yesh Chesed" stores will continue to operate in Arad, serving all segments of the population. The decision to change the store's format was prompted by a change in ownership of the mall itself. In early 2026, businessmen Menachem Kain and Simcha Greenboim, representing the Gur Hasidic movement, purchased the mall for 40 million shekels from Ashtrom and local owners.
The new management aims to adapt the mall to the needs of the religious population. This development reflects significant demographic shifts in Arad, where the Gur Hasidic community, seeking affordable housing for young families, has been actively acquiring property. Ultra-Orthodox residents now constitute approximately 30% of Arad's population, with the Gur Hasidic movement making up about 20%, influencing the city's infrastructure and commerce.
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