Hesburger to close all outlets in Russia, Belarus in summer

Finnish fast food company Hesburger has decided to close all of its 42 outlets in Russia and Belarus within shortest possible time following the Russia´s attack on Ukraine, said the company in a press release on Tuesday.

Chief Executive Officer of Hesburger Kari Salmela said that the company has planning to suspend operations in Russia and Belarus in summer.

He said the company in early March announced the plans to close its business in Russia but the closure process became slower than the stipulated schedule and the company has closed only one outlet so far.

Salmela said that the closure schedule delayed as they had to pay attention to the safety of local staff and unable to withdraw without negotiation.

The delay in the closing down process raised strong criticism in social media.

“We understand very well that the slow exit from the Russian and Belarusian markets has caused controversy. Restaurants need to be closed. We will do our best to close the doors of the restaurants in Russia as soon as possible,” Salmela said in a statement.

Food companies operating in Russia have different legal obligations than other sectors companies as the food services are considered essential to the public.

Currently Hesburger has 38 outlets in Russia and four in Belarus.

He also said that all of the Hesburger employees in Ukraine are alive.

“For the time being, our restaurants are closed in Ukraine, but we still pay full payment to all local employees,” he added.