Shake-up at a leading Israeli mall: an entire floor section to be closed, major chains respond

Dramatic change at one of Israel's most successful commercial properties: the management of Azrieli Malha Mall in Jerusalem has decided to close the fast-food court on half of the upper level of the third floor. The space, which for years served as a central part of the culinary scene in the complex, will not remain empty — in its place, a huge store of the "Toys R Us" toy chain is expected to open, which will be moved from its current location in the mall.

This move is causing a shake-up among business owners at the site: some restaurants will be forced to close their doors permanently, while others are looking for alternative solutions. The "Hummus Eliyahu" chain has already ended its operations due to the lack of an alternative space and has directed customers to other branches in the city — at the Hadar Mall and on Jaffa Street. On the other hand, the "Katsefet" chain noted that they are negotiating with the mall management with the goal of finding a new location.

It should be noted that this step concerns exclusively the fast-food wing on the third floor, while the food court on the second floor will continue to operate as usual. Azrieli Jerusalem Mall stated that the mall is at full occupancy with about 300 businesses, and the change is being carried out as part of a comprehensive upgrade of the business mix for the benefit of visitors.