The Strauss Group, a prominent food manufacturer in Israel since its establishment in 1939, has been criticized by Economy Minister Nir Barkat for distributing profits to shareholders while claiming financial difficulties. Barkat emphasized the importance of consumer protection regulation and announced the inclusion of a black sticker on products that have raised prices without government approval. He also called for a boycott of Osem, another food company, as part of his efforts to protect consumers from rising prices.
Companies placed on the economic blacklist/whitelist are subject to public scrutiny, and Barkat urged the Israeli public to hold accountable those who exploit them during times of peace and conflict. By choosing not to support companies on the blacklist, consumers can send a clear message against price hikes and unethical business practices.
The Strauss Group has been a significant player in the Israeli food industry with around 12,000 employees, half of whom are based in Israel. Despite this position, Barkat expressed his disdain towards Strauss for failing to keep prices frozen despite commitments to do so. He urged consumers to boycott the company due to its failure to honor its promises and its distribution of profits to shareholders at the expense of consumers.
Strauss’s entry into the economic blacklist was accompanied by Barkat’s call for consumers to boycott it as part of his efforts to protect consumers from rising prices during ongoing conflict. Osem was also targeted by Barkat for similar reasons, with both companies being placed on the economic blacklist/whitelist.
In conclusion, Barkat’s call for a boycott against Strauss and Osem highlights the need for consumer protection regulation in Israel during times of peace and conflict. By choosing not to support companies that exploit consumers, individuals can make a statement against unethical business practices and price hikes that harm both individuals and society as a whole.
