Tory MP Backs Calls for Marks & Spencer Stores in Russia to Close

THE GUARDIAN: Retailer says it has stopped supplying its franchisee’s business in Russia, but the shops remain open

There are 48 M&S shops in Russia where a Turkish franchisee runs stores. Photograph: Toby Melville/Reuters
A Conservative MP has backed calls for dozens of Marks & Spencer stores across Russia to be shut immediately, suggesting Vladimir Putin is funnelling every rouble made in the country into the invasion of Ukraine.

Alicia Kearns, who hosted four Ukrainian parliamentarians in the House of Commons on Thursday, said any profits generated would be tainted by the killings and war crimes committed during the conflict.

Two weeks ago, M&S stopped supplying its Turkish franchisee’s businesses in Russia, which has 48 shops and 1,200 employees. However the stores remain open and continue to sell their existing stock.

Some other chains that operate in Russia by franchise, such as McDonald’s, have been able to close their doors, given the agreements differ between companies. » | Aubrey Allegretti, Political correspondent | Thursday, March 17, 2022