Israel Krembo Market Survey Reveals Wide Price Gaps Among Leading Brands
As the winter krembo season peaks in Israel, a market price comparison reveals significant gaps between major brands like Strauss, Artic, and Rio, highlighting differences in packaging, weight, and unit costs.
The winter season in Israel brings the return of the beloved marshmallow-and-biscuit treat known as krembo, cementing the country's status as a global leader in its consumption. Originating in Europe before the establishment of the state, the treat made its formal commercial debut in 1962 under the Artic brand. Today, supermarket shelves feature competing versions from Strauss Group, Feldeman Ice Cream, Rio, and Artic by Colorado, varying significantly in package sizes, weights, and pricing.
A market survey conducted by retail chains in early November revealed notable price disparities across brands. The median price for an eight-pack of Strauss vanilla krembo, weighing 200 grams, stood at 20.90 shekels. In comparison, an eight-pack of Artic, also weighing 200 grams, was priced at 10.90 shekels, while an eight-pack of Rio, weighing 240 grams, cost 15.90 shekels. Meanwhile, Feldeman's vanilla Manbo pack was priced at 14.90 shekels, but contained only six units totaling 144 grams. This translates to roughly 2.48 shekels per unit, making it more expensive per piece than Rio's package at approximately 1.99 shekels.
Strauss previously raised its wholesale krembo price by 9 percent in December, citing rising production and logistics costs. The high volume of consumption explains why price adjustments attract widespread public attention. Data from the company's manufacturing plant in Acre indicated an annual production of approximately 50 million units at that facility alone, while broader historical estimates have placed nationwide sales at around 70 million units annually.
Consumers seeking variety beyond traditional vanilla and mocha can find limited-edition flavors such as salted caramel and strawberry-banana. Alongside expanding flavor profiles, branding transitions are underway as operations tied to Strauss Ice Cream gradually shift toward the Magnum brand, though the classic krembo label remains active in stores. Market analysts advise shoppers to closely inspect package weights, unit counts, and price per 100 grams rather than relying solely on the upfront cost of a box.
