Following in the footsteps of many multinationals who have decided to distance themselves from Moscow, the American fast-food chain McDonald’s announced on Tuesday that it had decided to temporarily close its 850 restaurants in Russia and to suspend all its operations in the country,
The group will however continue to pay its 62,000 employees in the country, said in a message the general manager of the company Chris Kempczinski. McDonald’s had become a symbol in the United States of the big companies that have so far chosen not to leave Russia, almost two weeks following the invasion of Ukraine. The keyword #BoycottMcDonalds recently appeared on social media.
McDonald’s directly manages more than 80% of its restaurants
“The situation is extraordinarily difficult for a global brand like ours and there are many considerations to take into account,” said Chris Kempczinski in his message, referring to employees, but also suppliers and customers.
Russia, where McDonald’s directly manages more than 80% of the restaurants bearing its name, represents 9% of the group’s turnover and 3% of its operating profit.
“At the same time, respecting our values means that we cannot ignore the unnecessary human suffering taking place in Ukraine,” he added. McDonald’s “will continue to assess the situation and determine if further action is necessary,” the official said.
Independently run KFC or Pizza Hut fast food outlets
It is currently “impossible to predict” when the restaurants will be able to reopen, also indicated Chris Kempczinski: in addition to the humanitarian situation, the group must manage disruptions in its supply chain and other operational problems.
The other large American chains Starbucks, KFC and Pizza Hut in Russia are managed entirely or almost entirely by independent owners under franchise or licence. Yum! Brands, the parent company of KFC and Pizza Hut, had nevertheless announced Monday evening the suspension of all its investments in the country and had undertaken, like Starbucks, to donate all the profits drawn from its activities in Russia to humanitarian operations. .
