Price Gaps in Back-to-School Supplies Reach Hundreds of Shekels Across Retailers

As the summer vacation continues, many Israeli parents have already begun purchasing school supplies for the upcoming academic year. A recent price comparison reveals significant cost differences between various retail chains, with some families able to save hundreds of shekels by shopping strategically. The competition has expanded beyond traditional office supply stores to include supermarket chains like Rami Levy, which now offer a wide range of school items including backpacks, pencil cases, and lunch boxes, aiming to provide a one-stop shopping experience.

Backpacks, especially for first graders and branded models, show the largest price disparities. For example, a first-grade backpack costs as little as 149 shekels at Kravitz, compared to 199 shekels at Rami Levy and Dan Deal, and 219 shekels online at Super-Pharm. Adidas backpacks range from 59.90 shekels at Max Stock and stock chains to about 70 shekels at Office Depot and Kravitz, sometimes including matching pencil cases.

Smaller items also significantly impact the total expense. A Casio calculator is priced at 19.90 shekels at Rami Levy but nearly double at Kravitz. Highlighter packs cost 9.90 shekels at Rami Levy, Kravitz, and stock chains, but rise to 12.90 shekels at Dan Deal and 13.90 shekels online at Super-Pharm. Scissors prices vary dramatically from 0.40 shekels at Kravitz to 8 shekels at Super-Pharm online.

Consumer experts advise parents to first check what supplies remain from the previous year to avoid unnecessary purchases. They also recommend splitting purchases across different retailers to capitalize on the best prices for each category, potentially saving hundreds of shekels. Starting shopping early allows families to avoid the last-minute rush in late August, when demand spikes, stock runs low, and prices often increase.