The Japanese fashion chain Uniqlo has now closed its shops in Russia. A press statement dated March 10 reads: “In continuing our Uniqlo business in Russia, it has become clear to us that we are no longer able to continue due to a number of difficulties. That’s why we decided today to temporarily stop our activities.” The reason for the decision is “operational challenges and the worsening of the conflict situation,” it said. The parent company, Fast Retailing, operates 49 Uniqlo stores in Russia, and there are a total of 2,350 stores worldwide.
The company emphasizes that it rejects all forms of aggression and violence. In addition, it refers to its own responsibility towards all people, including those affected by conflicts and natural disasters, to provide clothing as a basis for life. That’s why Uniqlo last week announced a donation of ten million US dollars and clothing to the UN refugee agency UNHCR. In addition, the European branch helps deliver clothing to refugees from Ukraine.
Fast Retailing speaks of 100,000 pieces of clothing and other items from Uniqlo that are to be donated through the cooperation with the UNHCR. This includes Heattech blankets, Heattech clothing and masks, and winter clothing collected from Uniqlo stores in Japan as part of the recycling program. In response to UNHCR’s needs, these articles will be distributed to refugees in Poland and other countries.