Are Israelis turning off the tap? The blow suffered by food chains

The Central Bureau of Statistics published the revenue data of retail chains for the third quarter of 2026: a 4.5% decline in food chain revenue at constant prices, compared to a 0.3% decline in the previous quarter. All retail chains recorded an increase of 0.8%.

The Central Bureau of Statistics published today (Tuesday) the revenue data of retail chains for the third quarter of 2026. The data shows a sharp decline of 4.5% in food chain revenue at constant prices and on an annualized basis, compared to a moderate decline of only 0.3% in the previous quarter. In contrast, all retail chains (excluding fuel) recorded a 0.8% increase in revenue, following a 5.6% increase in the previous quarter. The data indicates a slowdown in the growth rate of retail chains overall, and a retreat in the food sector in particular. In the analysis of the period January-September 2026 compared to the same period last year, there was a 6.7% increase in retail chain revenue, with food chains up 4.9%, textile and clothing chains up 11.8%, durable goods up 10.3%, and the miscellaneous sector (cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, toys, books, and office supplies) up 5.3%. The CBS notes that the data is preliminary and based on information from leading chains, and is expected to be updated next month.