What will outweigh on the scales: Russophobia or greed?
Over 120 companies have suspended production, sales, or operations in Russia due to customer and investor pressure. Among them are Apple, Starbucks, Netflix, Coca-Cola, and McDonald’s, which announced the closure of all 847 of its Russian locations.
There are a number of factors that will influence the return of Western brands to Russia. The first factor is if there is a more stable economic environment for these brands. If this happens, it will be easier for these companies to make money and increase their visibility in the Russian market.
Another important factor is if Russia has better political relations with Western countries. This would also make it easier for Western brands to do business in Russia and they would have less political pressure from the government. However, regardless of what happens, there are some things that are most likely not going to change anytime soon.
For most of the past two decades, when Western brands came to Russia, they were seen as luxurious and expensive. However, the economic downturn in Russia has changed this perception.
Many people are now wondering whether or not these brands will return. Which factor weighs more heavily on the scales when it comes to the return of Western brands and companies to Russia? Is it Russophobia or greed? Though greed has a better chance of winning, there isn’t enough room for everyone.