A new financing concept has entered Israel’s chassidic clothing market, with a shtreimel manufacturer introducing a leasing-style program that allows customers to obtain a new shtreimel through fixed monthly payments rather than paying the entire purchase price upfront.

The program, advertised by the Israeli shtreimel company Shem Tov Fried, offers two payment options: a Silver Plan costing 299 shekels per month and a Gold Plan priced at 399 shekels per month, both extending over three years.

The arrangement represents an unusual approach to purchasing one of the most expensive items in a chassidic man’s wardrobe. Shtreimels, traditionally worn on Shabbos and Yom Tov by married men in numerous chassidic communities, can cost thousands of shekels, with premium models carrying considerably higher price tags.

Under the advertised program, customers can obtain a new shtreimel and receive ongoing maintenance services without additional charges during the three-year period. The company is promoting the arrangement as a way to eliminate the financial burden and inconvenience associated with purchasing and maintaining a shtreimel.

The advertisement highlights several features of the new offering, including a new shtreimel with an extended appearance, fixed monthly payments, maintenance services throughout the year, and what the company describes as particular attention to the shtreimel’s fit, strength, and finish.

Perhaps the most distinctive feature is the opportunity to replace the shtreimel after three years. According to the company’s promotional material, participants can renew their arrangement and receive a new shtreimel without a substantial additional expense.

The Silver Plan amounts to 10,764 shekels over 36 months, while the Gold Plan comes to 14,364 shekels over the same period. The advertisement does not specify whether customers retain ownership of their original shtreimel after the three years or whether additional conditions apply when receiving a replacement.

The initiative comes as shtreimel prices have risen considerably in recent years. A report published earlier this year described an Israeli market in which basic models can cost several thousand shekels, while high-end, custom-made shtreimels can exceed 25,000 shekels. Differences in fur quality, workmanship, size, and design contribute to the wide variation in prices.

The leasing concept is not entirely without precedent. A shtreimel business in the United States has also promoted a subscription-style service involving maintenance and upgrades. The Israeli advertisement, however, specifically combines a new shtreimel, monthly payments, maintenance, and a three-year replacement cycle.

{Matzav.com}