McDonald’s Is Leaving Russia After 30 Years. They Began Selling Their 850 Stores

McDonald's has announced that it will leave the Russian market permanently after more than 30 years, and at the same time, it began gradually selling its restaurants in the country. The chain closed its 850 stores in March after Russia invaded Ukraine, informs BBC Business.

The world's most famous fast food said the reason for the serious decision was the humanitarian crisis and the unpredictable environment for the brand to operate within the country. McDonald’s wants to sell its stores to local owners, while seeking to ensure that all of its 62,000 employees in Russia receive pay until the sale is completed and they have their next employment.

McDonald’s opened its first branch on the Russian market in Moscow in 1990. The opening symbolised the easing of the Cold War tension between the West and Russia. Thirty years later, Western companies are gradually leaving the Russian market.