Adidas decides to suspend store, website operations in Russia

By Ovunc Kutlu

ANKARA (AA) - Adidas decided to suspend the operations of its stores and website in Russia until further notice.

It will continue to pay its employees, Stefan Pursche, the head of the company's media relations, told Anadolu Agency on Wednesday via email.

"As a company, we strongly condemn any form of violence and stand in solidarity with those calling for peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ukrainian people, and everyone affected at this difficult time," the firm said in a statement sent through email.

The company said it is donating a total of €1 million ($1.1 million) to refugee and children’s charities, in addition to donating clothing to Global Aid Network  to those in need within Ukraine and neighboring countries.

"As a company we are offering tailor made support to our employees and their family members in the region, to help with transportation, accommodation, clothing, and food, as well as psychological support," it added.

"We will continue to follow the situation closely and take future business decisions and action as needed, prioritizing our employee’s safety and support," it added.

The German apparel company announced on March 1 that it decided to suspend its partnership with the Russian Football Union because of the Russia-Ukraine war.

The firm has been the Russian national football team's kit supplier for more than a decade since their partnership began in September 2008, months after the UEFA EURO 2008 football championship where Russia reached the semifinals.