Henkel Moves to Exit Russia: Timeline and Context
A report from RBC outlines the plan by the German chemical and consumer goods company Henkel to wind down its Russia operations by the end of March this year. Henkel owns and markets cosmetics and household products under notable brands such as Schwarzkopf, Syoss, Fa, and Persil, and its decision is explained by the company in official statements cited by the publication.
In the early days of what Russia termed a special operation, Henkel faced extensive inquiries about its future in the Russian market. The company acknowledged public concerns over not announcing an immediate withdrawal, emphasizing that it was grappling with a complex transition rather than a sudden pullout. The rationale shared with stakeholders clarifies that continuing operations was a necessity given long-standing market presence and a substantial local workforce.
According to Henkel, ceasing activity immediately was not feasible. In Russia, the company has operated for more than three decades and currently employs roughly 2,500 people. The breadth of its local footprint means a rapid cessation would affect many livelihoods and disrupt a broad network that has grown to support both the domestic economy and consumer access to familiar brands.
Earlier statements from Henkel’s leadership highlighted the flagging state of negotiations tied to the withdrawal. In February 2023, Carsten Knobel, then CEO of Henkel, told WirtschaftsWoche that the company planned to terminate its operations in Russia within the first quarter of the year. He noted that final negotiations were still underway as part of a careful transition plan that reflected the company’s responsibilities to its employees and partners, as well as to the broader business commitments in the region.
By mid-April, Henkel publicly confirmed its decision to exit the Russian market. The company stated that, in light of current events, it would cease activities in Russia and that the execution process was being prepared to ensure an orderly wind-down. This plan underscored Henkel’s intent to manage the departure in a structured manner, with attention to regulatory compliance, logistical arrangements, and the welfare of staff and suppliers during the transition.