For the time being, the group will continue to brew Heineken locally, as well as the Zhigulevskoe and Oxota brands. Investments have also been stopped. The group points out that the beverage sector is not sanctioned by the European Union.
Russia represents less than 2% of Heineken’s total turnover, approximately €500 million in 2021. Heineken is the third largest brewer in Russia, employing about 1800 people. “We sincerely hope that a path to peace will emerge in the short term,” said a spokesman. The Association of Stock Owners stated earlier this week that the brewer should be more transparent about the interests in the country and the consequences of the invasion of Ukraine.