Undoubtedly the best salesmen and women in the world, whether it’s Dead Sea soaps, hair straighteners or Christmas ornaments. And when the going gets tough, Zohan’s tactics work too.

Israelis’ Soft Sell At Bryant Park?

by Sharon Udasin

Just outside Bryant Park’s wintertime ice skating rink, a young Israeli named Oz clutches a basketful of purple and green squares of soap, distributing samples to eager passersby. Meanwhile, a muffled version of Bing Crosby’s “Happy Holiday” echoes through the park’s loudspeakers, reminding visitors that all their wishes should come true “while the merry bells keep ringing.”

From waxen Christmas ornaments to exfoliating Dead Sea slush, Israeli vendors at the Holiday Shops in Bryant Park find themselves as busy as ever, economic downturn or not. And unlike Israelis who manage Christmastime mall kiosks, these merchants claim that they are by no means “pushy” and they prefer gentler tactics when luring New Yorkers and tourists into their shops. Continue reading…