Over 120 multinational companies have severed their ties with Russia over the Ukraine conflict
Unilever was one of the first major European companies to suspend importing and exporting its products from Russia
H&M has also halted its sales in Russia
A mall in Russia now barely sees any customers as more brands pull out amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, according to a viral video.
In a video recording posted on Reddit, a Russian mall was seen empty. The shelves of several luxury brands were also empty of products as over 120 multinational companies sever their ties with Kremlin following President Vladimir Putin’s order to invade Ukraine.
Here are some of the biggest companies that have distanced themselves from Russia since the conflict began on Feb. 24.
Consumer Goods and Retail Stores
Unilever became one of the first major European companies to suspend importing and exporting its products from Russia. The company owns brands like Dove and Sunsilk and is also the maker of Knorr soup.
Ikea has paused all exports and imports to and from Russia and Belarus. Additionally, it also suspended its operations in Russia, which affected approximately 15,000 employees. However, it will still continue to operate Mega, its major chain of shopping centers, in Russia.
TJX announced it would sell its 25% stake in Russian low-cost apparel retailer Familia valued at over $186 million in January 2022.
H&M, the second-biggest retailer worldwide, halted its sales in Russia over concerns about the developments in Ukraine during the early days of the conflict. The brand has about 170 stores across Russia.
Adidas has closed its stores and online shop in Russia until further notice. However, the company’s Russian employees would still receive their wages.
Nike has closed all of its 116 stores in Russia. The brand has also suspended merchandise purchases on its website and app in Russia.
Food and Beverages
McDonald’s said it was temporarily closing 850 locations in Russia amid the conflict in Ukraine. The chain opened its first restaurant in Russia in 1990.
Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson on Tuesday announced they are suspending all operations in Russia. The chain will continue to pay its nearly 2,000 Russian employees.
PepsiCo announced it would halt its selling of soda in Russia. However, the brand would continue to make dairy and baby food products accessible.
Yum Brands announced it was suspending the operations of 70 company-owned KFC restaurants and 50 franchise-owned Pizza Hut restaurants in Russia.
Kiselyov famously warned in 2014 that Russia could turn the US to 'radioactive ash'POOL via AFP / SERGEI CHIRIKOV
