McDonald’s is bidding farewell to Russia forever after serving 30 long years in the country.
A recent announcement was made by the leading fast-food franchise that claims they are putting an end to the operations in Russia as the chain has already begun selling some of its restaurants.
The news comes during a time when McDonald’s had opted to temporarily suspend their operations in the country in view of the ongoing conflict. While they had failed to reveal until when they would return, it’s quite evident why because they’re shutting down for good.
Last month, we saw all 850 branches go into hibernation mode with claims regarding the humanitarian crisis and very unpredictable circumstances being the reason as the hostile war in Ukraine had reached its peak with innocent lives being lost.
The first restaurant of the fast-food chain was opened in Moscow in the year 1990 and many saw that as a symbol that delineated a very clear thaw in the ongoing Cold War and the tensions that it surrounded.
Just 365 days later, we saw the collapse of the Soviet Union, and Russians were seen opening up their economy to so many other companies from the west. But 30 years down the line, we’re seeing it pull out again and the company says this is permanent.
The public statement mentioned how the decision was certainly not an easy one for them to move ahead with, citing the great popularity and love shown by Russian citizens. The message was reportedly revealed by the company’s chief executive and was headed to both the staff members as well as the suppliers involved in the business.
While many in the country are criticizing the move, others around the globe and standing in solidarity with the chain because they feel the war cannot be ignored and it’s very sensible for the fast-food chain to take a step in the right direction.