War in Ukraine: McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo and Starbucks halt Russian sales

McDonalds has also temporarily closed its 108 restaurants in Ukraine.

Companies have been under pressure to act as Russian violence against civilians has escalated.

#BoycottMcDonalds and #BoycottCocaCola had both been trending on Twitter over recent days.

Dozens of well-known firms including Netflix and Levi’s have already suspended sales or stopped providing services in Russia amid severe sanctions imposed by Western allies.

Coca-Cola on Tuesday said it was suspending operations in Russia, which accounted for roughly 2% of the firm’s operating revenue and income. It also has a roughly 20% ownership stake in a bottling and distribution business in Russia.

“Our hearts are with the people who are enduring unconscionable effects from these tragic events in Ukraine,” the company said.

But the company, which started operating in Russia during the Cold War and now employs 20,000 people there, said it would continue to offer other products.

“As a food and beverage company, now more than ever we must stay true to the humanitarian aspect of our business,” boss Ramon Laguarta said. “That means we have a responsibility to continue to offer our other products in Russia, including daily essentials such as milk and other dairy offerings, baby formula and baby food.”

Starbucks’ plans to stop business in Russia include stopping shipments of its products.

The coffee chain’s licensee in the country Kuwait-based Alshaya Group will continue to pay its roughly 2,000 staff members.

Other major global brands joining the backlash on Tuesday included the world’s largest music company, Universal Music Group, which said it was suspending all operations in Russia and closing its offices there.

Unilever, maker of Marmite, Dove beauty products and PG Tips, among other brands, also said it had suspended trade with Russia and planned to halt its advertising and media spending and investments there.

It said it would continue to supply “everyday essential food and hygiene products” that are made in Russia.

L’Oreal, the world’s biggest cosmetics company, is also shutting its stores and concessions in Russia and suspending online sales.

However, some firms have have defended plans to continue operating in Russia, including Uniqlo owner Fast Retailing, whose founder told Japan’s Nikkei newspaper that “clothing is a necessity of life”.