Fashion retailer H&M joins TJX, others in exiting Russia

The logo of H&M is seen at a closed store in Moscow, Russia March 3, 2022. REUTERS/Staff

STOCKHOLM, July 18 (Reuters) – H&M (HMb.ST), the world’s second-biggest fashion retailer, said on Monday it had decided to wind down its business in Russia, joining a growing list of companies fully exiting the country and sending its shares down 1%.

The company suspended its business in Russia in early March in the wake of Western sanctions against Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine. Russia was H&M’s sixth biggest market and the company was increasing its store count there while reducing physical stores in many other markets.

“After careful consideration, we see it as impossible given the current situation to continue our business in Russia,” Chief Executive Helena Helmersson said in a statement.

“We are deeply saddened…