Yohananof CEO Blames High Taxes, Not Retailers, for Israel's Cost of Living Crisis

Eitan Yohananof, 59, CEO and co-owner of the Yohananof supermarket chain, spoke candidly about his business decisions, economic views, and personal life in a recent interview. Born and raised in Holon, a former paratrooper, and now living in Savion with his family, Yohananof recounted a pivotal moment over 15 years ago when he acquired numerous Mega supermarket branches, a move that significantly transformed his business.

Yohananof criticized the common misconception that retailers are responsible for Israel's high cost of living. He argued that the real issue lies in the government's persistent tax increases, which he believes stifle investment and economic growth. "The state's obsession with piling taxes on us is what creates the high cost of living," he said, emphasizing that his publicly traded company earns only a 3% profit margin, making accusations against them "pathetic."

On a personal note, Yohananof shared how he manages fear through extreme sports like motorcycling and skydiving, which have taught him discipline and caution. He recounted a serious motorcycle accident that led him to stop racing competitively. Despite facing a legal case related to competition authority allegations, he expressed confidence and denied wrongdoing.

Yohananof also reflected on the sacrifices his career demanded, admitting he often prioritized work over family, sometimes missing important moments with his children. To maintain balance, he relies on playing guitar, a lifelong passion that helps him unwind. He also discussed his upbringing, highlighting his parents' emphasis on personal responsibility and rejecting victimhood narratives, which shaped his outlook on success and resilience.

Looking ahead, Yohananof advocates for tax reductions to unlock economic potential and alleviate the financial burden on ordinary citizens, positioning this as the key to addressing Israel's cost of living challenges.