Russian aggression in Ukraine: McDonald's shuts down in Kazakhstan due to supply shortage

Nur-Sultan: McDonald's has been forced to shut down its operations in Kazakhstan due to a supply shortage assumed to have stemmed from the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The popular fast food chain hasn't explained the reason behind the move.

According to a report on BBC, McDonald's has banned its local franchise from buying produce from Russian suppliers. In one of the branches in Alamaty, the largest city in the country, workers were seen removing the brand's sign. The company was forced to temporarily close doors in November. Now, the move has been made permanent.

"The chain of fast-service restaurants managed by Food Solutions KZ LLP will stop working under the McDonald's brand in Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions," said a post by McDonald's Kazakhstan on Instagram.

The local operator Food Solutions KZ announced that it will reopen the same outlets under a new name. Food Solutions KZ's Head, Aset Mashanov met with the government in December and said the company is trying to source meat products locally to restart operations as soon as possible. Importing from other nations is going to be challenging if customs clearance and other bureaucratic hurdles were not removed.

"The reopening of the company and the opening date of the quick service restaurants under the new name will be announced soon. We will answer all questions related to the company's continued operations after this transition is completed," said the social media post.

"After the opening of the chain of restaurants, visitors will be offered high-quality products, a varied menu, and hospitable service. Fast-food restaurants will continue to operate in accordance with the current high standards, values, and business principles," added the fast-food chain.