The Israeli retail market continues to evolve, and the KingStore supermarket chain continues to expand: The chain has announced the completion of an extensive move to renovate and upgrade its central branch in the Lev Ha'aretz industrial zone in Rosh Ha'ayin, with an investment estimated at NIS 10 million.
The branch, which spans an extensive area of about 6,500 square meters, becomes the chain's flagship branch in Israel following the upgrade. As part of this, KingStore is revealing a new retail concept for the first time, which is planned to be implemented across all new branches the chain opens over the next two years.
Another significant point of differentiation for the chain is that it is not kosher: It also offers non-kosher products such as seafood, and its branches are open on Shabbat as well.
Alongside the international and local brands familiar from major retail chains, the shelves at the branch offer a wide variety of authentic products from Arab and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Among other things, the offerings include produce from Galilean dairies, baked goods and cakes from well-known bakeries in Arab society, unique spices, delicacies, and additional local products.
The upgrade also includes the introduction of advanced shopping technologies. The branch was redesigned to improve the customer experience, integrating digital solutions such as smart carts and advanced accessibility systems designed to streamline the shopping process.
Majdi Ketany, CEO of KingStore, clarified that the chain's ultimate goal is entering the capital market: "The flagship branch in Rosh Ha'ayin is one of our central and most important branches, which is why it was important for us to invest in it and rebuild the shopping experience. We launched a branch that connects everything customers look for in a large supermarket - variety, convenience, prices, and familiar brands - together with our unique advantage. We are full of hope to launch an IPO at the end of the process."
The KingStore chain was established in 2010 as a family business, initially operating mainly in the northern region and among the Arab population. Over the years, the chain expanded into a nationwide network that currently numbers about 30 branches, including in cities such as Beersheba, Tel Aviv, and Rosh Ha'ayin, alongside extensive deployment in Arab localities.
In 2017, the Phoenix Group acquired 20% of its shares, with the remaining 80% held by the Almashhadawi Group. Over the past year, the chain continued its expansion and opened additional branches, including in Taiba and near the Idan Hanegev employment area.