Summary
Unilever has sold its Russian operations to the local manufacturer Arnest Group amid ongoing pressure from campaigners who argue that the company’s presence in Russia supports the war in Ukraine. The deal includes Unilever Rus, which operates four factories and holds rights to several well-known brands, and is expected to be valued at over €500 million.
The sale comes as part of Unilever’s efforts to distance itself from Russia following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Despite initially remaining in the country, Unilever faced significant criticism for its continued operations, which included manufacturing essential consumer products. Campaigners highlighted the company’s tax contributions to the Russian government, prompting calls for Unilever to exit the market entirely. The sale, which requires approval from the Russian government, marks the end of Unilever’s direct involvement in the region after a complex process of preparing the business for sale, which included separating IT systems and adapting branding to local languages.
Unilever sells its business in Russia - CNN
Oct. 10 / Google News / Offers a concise overview of Unilever's sale to Arnest Group, but lacks the depth and critical perspective found in other reports. As a summary, it compiles information from various sources without adding unique insights or analysis. “ Unilever sells its business in Russia CNNUnilever completes sale of Russian subsidiary UnileverUnilever Exits Russia With Sale of Business to Arnest Group...
Unilever sells Russian business after pressure from campaigners
Oct. 10 / The Guardian / Calls attention to the complexities surrounding Unilever's exit from Russia, detailing the operational challenges and public pressure faced, while also highlighting the implications for the company's brand image. The Guardian's analysis is comprehensive and well-contextualized, providing insights into the ethical considerations and campaigner reactions that shaped this decision. “ Unilever has sold off its Russian operations to a local manufacturing group after pressure from campaigners who have claimed that the the presence of the...