Tnuva Chairwoman Zehavit Cohen has resigned on Sunday morning (4 Tishrei), stating the move is in no way related to protests and the ongoing Tnuva boycott. Many credit the social-economic protest tents that spread nationwide during the summer and of course, the ongoing boycott targeting Tnuva specifically for the resignation, rejecting Tnuva’s attempt at smoothing over relations with the public. Analysts point to an Antitrust Authority investigation against Tnuva as the main factor compelling the resignation.

Protest organizers vow to continue until acceptable reforms are implemented. While Tnuva denies any connection to the protests in its decision-making process, company officials announce Tnuva is lowering prices on many items. In actuality, price educations began shortly after the announced resignation, with many products selling for 15% less than before Rosh Hashanah.

For example, a 5% white cheese (250 gram) is down to NIS 6.33 from NIS 7.45. Sliced Emek hard cheese (200 gram) is down to NIS 14.58 from NIS 17.15.

Boycott organizers vow to keep the pressure on Tnuva and other companies as they feel the momentum has begun having an impact and the time has come to ensure basic food items are affordable. Boycott organizers announce the lowering of prices will not result in their canceling the protest, insisting Tnuva can and must lower prices by 30% to end the boycott.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)