Hesburger to close all outlets in Russia by April

Finnish fast food company Hesburger will close all of its outlets in Russia by the end of April, said the company in a press release on Monday.

The company said that it already sent notices to its local entrepreneurs saying that the operations in Russia will be closed down immediately.

Earlier, in March the company announced the plans to close its business in Russia following the Russia´s attack on Ukraine but the closure process became slower than the stipulated schedule.

The company said that they had to pay attention to the safety of local staff and unable to withdraw without negotiation resulting the delay.

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

Hesburger also has seven restaurants in Ukraine and all the restaurants situated in Kiev remained closed.

“According to our information, all of our employees in Ukraine are alive. Our restaurants were not damaged in the war. We will not open any restaurant until it becomes completely safe for all employees and customers. we still pay full payment to all the local employees. Our thoughts are with the brave Ukrainians and we hope from the bottom of our hearts that peace will return to the country,” Chief Executive Officer of Hesburger Kari Salmela said in the press release.

Earlier, on March 29, Hesburger decided to close all of its 42 outlets in Russia and Belarus within shortest possible time.