Cosmetics retailer Lush has said its shops in Russia will remain open but it is suspending supplies and online sales to the country amid the Ukraine crisis.
According to the Dorset business, its 48 Russian stores cannot be shut because they are run by a Russian licensee under the legal agreement. Meanwhile, its 15 shops in Ukraine are currently closed amid the ongoing war.
The Poole-headquartered company said it was also in the process of acquiring the Lush Ukraine shares not currently held by the group in order to "secure the business".
"We are communicating daily with our Russian and Ukrainian colleagues as events unfold," Lush said in a statement.
"Our Russian and Ukrainian businesses are associate companies, both 65% owned by a Russian citizen who had built the business over 20 years to 48 shops in Russia and 15 in Ukraine, employing over 600 staff who share the Lush values of environmental protection, animal rights, social justice and peace."
Lush said with the Ukrainian shops shut and worldwide sanctions taking effect in Russia, the business prospects were "bleak", but did not pose a material risk to the group.
"Our overarching goal is to stand with Ukraine and with all people of peace in the region. Our short-term goal is to provide a relief fund to help our Ukrainian colleagues in the current situation," a statement from Lush said.
The retailer said it was using charity pot funds and contacts on the ground in Ukraine, and at the borders of surrounding countries, to give grants to citizens who are joining together to provide food, shelter and support.
Lush said it had already provided help to a hotel offering accommodation for unaccompanied children who have been evacuated from districts being shelled - and to a charity providing support to three children’s hospitals.
The retailer said it was also working with local resident groups who are getting food and water into bomb shelters or feeding those isolated at home; and animal charities which are acting as an emergency service for injured and stranded animals.
"We stand for peace and join the global community calling for an immediate ceasefire and the protection of all lives," the company added.
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