Yum Brands Halts Development in Russia

Yum Brands announced today it’s pausing all investment and development in Russia amid the ongoing war on Ukraine.

The restaurant company operates approximately 1,000 KFC stores and 50 Pizza Hut locations in the country, nearly all of which are operated by independent owners under license or franchise agreements.

“Like so many across the world, we are shocked and saddened by the tragic events unfolding in Ukraine. Yum! Brands has suspended all investment and restaurant development in Russia while we continue to assess additional options,” says the company in a press release.

Meanwhile, Yum Brands will redirect all profits from operations in Russia to humanitarian efforts, and the Yum Brands Foundation is donating $1 million to the Red Cross to support those affected, is activating the Yum Disaster Relief Fund to support Ukrainian franchise employees and is matching donations from employees to the following charities providing relief in Ukraine: UNICEF, Red Cross, World Food Programme and International Rescue Committee.

“As always, we remain focused on the safety of our people in the region and will continue to act decisively to support our teams in Ukraine,” says the company.