Ma Nishtana? Rising Prices Make for an Additional Shadow on Passover Preparations in Israel

With Passover around the corner, many in Israel report a significant decline in their financial situation. The changes in the economy due to the war brought new financial lows for households and distrust in retailers. A new survey by the Histadrut Consumer Protection Authority reveals a nation tightening its belt as the holiday approaches.

Over 90% of Israelis expect to pay more for their Passover shopping compared to last year. This comes amid the economic deterioration as a result of the war, with a third of respondents reporting a decline in their financial situation since October 7 Hamas attacks. As a result, nearly half of those facing financial hardship plan to cut back on their holiday shopping.

Consumers are wary of supermarket promotions, with a staggering 81% expressing distrust in advertised Passover deals. If, in normal times, Passover ‘deals’ drive purchasing in the leadup to the holiday, for many, this holiday season will be modest and calculated.  

Passover leisure activities will also be impacted due to financial and security worries. Nearly half of Israelis say their sense of insecurity due to the war is affecting their plans during Chol HaMoed (the intermediate days of Passover), and 43% anticipate a subdued holiday mood due to the ongoing conflict. Vacation plans have been largely scrapped, with 90% of respondents opting to stay home this year. Financial constraints, security concerns, and low morale are all cited as reasons for this sharp decline in holiday travel.

Despite the challenges, consumers prioritize Israeli produce. The mandatory labeling of agricultural products has led to a surge in support for Israeli produce, with 71% of Israelis planning to prioritize local goods for their Passover meals. Additionally, many Israelis are starting their shopping early to avoid potential shortages and price hikes closer to the holiday.

Six months into the war, with 134 hostages still held captive by terrorists in Gaza, and with grief over whole communities that were burned down, families that were brutally murdered, and many still internally displaced, this Passover is going to be a challenging holiday to celebrate for many families across the nation.