Food Coupons For Passover

The longer I am in Israel, the more subtle differences I notice.

There are two main gift-giving seasons in the workplace in Israel- once at Rosh Hashanah and again at Passover. Companies sometimes send cards and baskets of goodies to other companies that that are customers or people with whom they want to keep up good relations. It is also a time that companies reward their employees and say thank you.

What is a “typical” gift you may ask? The answer is food coupons. Coupons, or “tlushim” in Hebrew, act as gift certificates or vouchers that can be used as cash in the various stores that participate in the deal. They are usually valid for one year and cannot be traded in for cash. Of course like most things in Israel, you have to read the fine print.

One coupon that is listed at a 100 shekel value is really only worth 90 shekels at most participating stores. Some stores have a maximum of 300 or 400 shekels that can be used at their stores and of course these coupons cannot be used for any sale items. These coupons can be used at most major supermarkets, home depot-like stores, some bookstores, music stores and even a few clothing stores.

Where in America people on welfare pay with food stamps at the supermarket, in Israel those who have jobs fork over these pieces of paper instead of using their credit card.

When I think about it a little more, giving tlushim as gifts fits many Israeli’s mentality of the ultimate gift: Money.
In America a couple about to get married will choose a store to register at and announce it to their friends so that people can buy gifts that this couple has requested. In Israel, you just give money.
In America a company might give you a fleece with your company logo or a nice bottle of wine. In Israel, you just get money.

Don’t misunderstand me, I am not complaining. I could always use another box of cereal or dish rack from IKEA. I just find it amusing that in a country where things move so fast and people move even faster, no one can be bothered to actually pick out a thoughtful gift and 9 times out of 10 opt to give you money.

Chag Sameach!