Starbucks to exit Russia
The company will continue to pay staff for the next six months and assist partners in the transition to new opportunities outside of Starbucks
Starbucks has announced it will exit Russia and no longer have a brand presence in the Russian market, following the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The company said it will continue to support the nearly 2,000 green apron partners it has in Russia. This includes paying staff for the next six months and assisting partners in the transition to new opportunities outside of Starbucks.
Overall, Starbucks has 130 stores in Russia that are wholly owned and operated by a licensed partner, although it does not have cafés in Ukraine.
As previously mentioned on 8 March, Starbucks suspended all business activity in Russia, including shipment of all Starbucks products.
The company said its licensed partner agreed to immediately pause store operations and will provide support to its partners in Russia who depend on Starbucks for their livelihood.
In March, Starbucks pledged to donate any royalties it received from its business operations in Russia to humanitarian relief efforts for Ukraine. The Starbucks Foundation also contributed $500,000 (£396,975) to World Central Kitchen and the Red Cross for humanitarian relief efforts for Ukraine.
In a previous statement, Kevin Johnson, chief executive officer (CEO) of Starbucks, said: “We condemn the horrific attacks on Ukraine by Russia and our hearts go out to all those affected.
“Through this dynamic situation, we will continue to make decisions that are true to our mission and values and communicate with transparency. Thank you for the care and concern you are sharing with me and your leaders.”
He added: “In times like these, as a company and as partners, we strive to never be a bystander. Partners’ perspectives continue to help inform the actions we will take.”
