Some multinational companies have temporarily halted operations in Ukraine following Russia's invasion on Feb. 24, while a few businesses helped evacuate employees. We've gathered articles on the news from SHRM Online and other media outlets.
Employees Evacuated from Odessa
At Hamburger Hafen und Logistik, which provides transport and logistics services, the last of 480 employees at its terminal in Odessa, Ukraine, evacuated early Feb. 24 before Russian forces invaded, the company said in a statement. The company said it would pay employees one month's salary to allow them to "stock up on essential goods."
Other companies temporarily halted operations, scaled them back or were working to determine if there were disruptions to operations in the region.
Buses to Poland
As Russian tanks rolled in, Global Guardian, a U.S. firm that advises businesses on security risks, used buses to take 200 workers from international financial services, legal and other office-based companies operating in Ukraine to Poland. The company's chief executive said the company had evacuated approximately 1,500 other employees—mainly foreign nationals—before the invasion.
Suspended Production or Limited Manufacturing Output
Companies that announced suspended production or limited manufacturing output in Ukraine included Carlsberg brewers, a Coca-Cola bottling company, snack maker Mondelez and steel manufacturer Arcelor Mittal. In addition, a number of airlines suspended operations to Ukraine as its airspace was closed.
A Nestlé spokesperson said the company temporarily closed its factories, warehouses and supply chain in Ukraine and recommended employees stay home. "We remain committed to continuing to serve the local people and have contingency plans in place to ensure we can restart the supply of our products as soon as safe conditions allow," the company said.
(CNN)
Shipping Giant Suspends Operations, Chipmaking May Be Affected
Global shipping giant Maersk halted port calls in Ukraine until the end of February and closed its main office in Odessa. Danish freight forwarder DSV shut its operations in Ukraine.
Large chip companies expect limited supply chain disruption for now, thanks to stockpiling and diversified procurement, but there might be an impact long term. Ukraine supplies more than 90 percent of U.S. semiconductor-grade neon, which is critical for lasers used in chipmaking.
(Reuters)
Business Continuity
Other businesses are focused on business continuity in the region. Diebold Nixdorf, which makes ATMs and retail customer checkout systems, has operations in Russia and Ukraine. A big concern is the safety of more than 100 employees and their families living near Kyiv, Ukraine. "We are asking them to avoid sensitive areas and prioritize their safety, while we maintain frequent contact with them to share information and key decisions," a company spokesman said.
 | How can you help? The International Committee of the Red Cross remains active in Ukraine, saving and protecting the lives of victims of armed conflict and violence. Its neutral and impartial humanitarian action supports the most vulnerable people, and your donation will make a huge difference to families in need right now. Donate here. |
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