// L’Occitane closes its own stores and ecommerce websites in Russia over Ukraine invasion
// This comes after L’Occitane said last week it could not take the “risk” of closing its shops
L’Occitane has made a U-turn on its decision to remain open in Russia, as it scales back its business operations in the country.
The French cosmetics retailer ondemned the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, and has suspended investment, expansion plans and halted sales in the country.
This decision comes after L’Occitane said last week that it could not take the “risk” of closing its shops, and therefore they would remain open.
READ MORE: L’Occitane keeps Russian stores open despite boycott calls
Some people have expressed their concerns on Twitter and called for a boycott of the brand.
“Given the enormous human suffering being caused by escalating military action in Ukraine and to protect our employees worldwide from potential public aggression, we have decided to close our own stores and ecommerce websites in Russia,” L’Occitane said.
“Our priority remains taking care of our employees. Concerning Ukraine, we are firmly committed to our distribution partner and its employees.
“We maintain regular communication with them and are providing support so that those affected can get to safety.”
L’Occitane also vowed to pay the salaries of its distribution partner’s employees in Ukraine as well as its Russian employees.
“We will continue to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all our employees around the world, in line with our company’s commitment to people,” it said.
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