Introduction
Israel’s largest supermarket chains say they are working to keep shelves stocked after a surge in consumer demand for groceries and household essentials amid heightened security conditions. Retailers report sharp increases in in-store and online orders as many families remain at home following civilian guidelines, while supermarkets continue operating as exempt essential services.
Carrefour Israel Reports Sharp Demand Spike
Carrefour Israel said its 151 branches and online operations are running at full capacity. CEO Michael Luboshitz said the chain increased inventories in advance and has a logistics system operating at maximum throughput. He urged consumers to avoid overbuying, emphasizing that merchandise supply remains sufficient.
The chain reported that on Sunday, branches extended operating hours from 6 a.m. to midnight. It also said purchase volumes were up 300% versus the same day a week earlier. Online orders doubled, and orders placed through Wolt rose 400%. Carrefour said it built inventory across major categories, focusing on essentials such as water, baby products, and hygiene items.
Shufersal and City Market Expand Inventory and Staffing
Shufersal, Israel’s largest supermarket chain, said it continues to operate its stores at full capacity. City Market, an urban grocery chain with about 80 branches, said demand for basic products rose more than 70% over the last two days.
City Market said the most sought-after items include mineral water, eggs, milk, dairy products, breads, pasta, and canned goods such as tuna. It also reported elevated demand for household supplies including toilet paper, paper towels, diapers, and baby food. Founder and CEO Yossi Schwartz said the chain increased inventory, reinforced staffing, and plans to operate continuously to support restocking and customer service.
Why Demand Has Surged
The increase in purchases follows restrictions affecting schools and nonessential businesses under civilian guidance after intensified military activity in the region. With many households limiting movement and spending more time at home, supermarkets and food retailers have become focal points for essential purchasing, leading to short-term hoarding behavior and compressed demand for staples.
Conclusion
Major Israeli supermarket chains say they are responding to the surge in demand by extending hours, increasing inventories, and operating logistics networks at full capacity. Retailers are urging customers to buy only what they need while committing to frequent replenishment of core essentials, particularly food staples, baby products, and hygiene items, as the security situation continues to evolve.
