As the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine takes hold, we are reminded of the devastation on a global scale. Across the tumult of the news cycle over these past few weeks, we've seen mass destruction, with the axis between sorrow and strength of the Ukrainian people never being more clear. While the West reckons with effective ways of putting in sanctions to the Russian dictatorial regime, action continues on the frontlines of all business.
In an act of solidarity, luxury conglomerates have joined arms and will suspend sales in Russia. This comes following Ukrainian high end stores calling other retailers to come together, after the initial invasion on the country. Luxury retailers so far have been left out of the sanctions introduced by the West. But in spite of this many have still found fulfilling orders difficult, after certain measures were introduced by the UK, European Union and the USA. Many are still pushing forward as the offer still stands to put peace above any monetary gains. Below, are the fashion brands supporting Ukraine during the war.
Who are the brands involved?
There have been a number of luxury brands jumping on board, and within days the number of brands seems to be growing considerably. All brands stating ethical and humanitarian grounds for ceasing operation within the country.
Hermès
When news broke of the sanctions, Hermès and Richemont were among the first firms to announce that they would pause business in Russia. The companies have been instrumental in gaining the momentum for the other luxury labels to follow suit.
Acne Studios
Donated €100,000 to UNICEF and to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees, or UNHCR. The brand has since halted on any deliveries to Russia.
Balenciaga
The brand thoroughly cleaned up their social media and followed up by donating an unconfirmed amount to the U.N. World Food Programme.
Burberry
The brand donated an unreported amount to the British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal. The brand has also maintained it would match any employee donations made to charities supporting crisis efforts in Ukraine.
Chanel
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In a statement via LinkedIn post, Chanel stated: "Given our increasing concerns about the current situation, the growing uncertainty and the complexity to operate, Chanel decided to temporarily pause its business in Russia."
Ganni
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Have donated 100,000 DKK to the Danish Refugee Council and have since ceased any sales in Russia.
Kering
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Kering, which is home to Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, and Saint Laurent, has just two stores in Russia, along with 180 employees in the country. The French firm made a statement claiming its decision was due to "growing concerns regarding the current situation in Europe".
LVMH
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LVMH, who owns Christian Dior, Givenchy and Bulgari, among others, have decided to close all 124 boutiques in the country from Sunday. This comes after Hermès and Cartier declared their stance on the inhumanity of the Russian regime.
Louis Vuitton
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Gave over €1 million (about $1.09 million) to UNICEF to give back to children and families who have been effected by the devastation.
Nanushka
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Will avoid any wholesale deals with Russian markets, and has since stopped delivering their product to Russia.
Valentino
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Donated over €500,000 to the UNHCR in response to the ongoing crisis and continue to extend their support over their social media channels.
The trickle down process of these brands shutting, looks to be having the desired effect. It seems, focussed sanctions on luxury goods might target those who are linked to the upper levels of power in Russia.
Professor Etel Solingen from the University of California's School of Social Sciences told BBC News; "Who can afford to buy luxury items in Russia? It may be a small fraction of Russia's growing penalties for what it has unleashed on the Ukraine, but they target a constituency that is better positioned to express discontent,".
We'll continue to update as this happens, hopefully we'll see an influx of other brands willing to jump on the humanitarian bandwagon. In the meantime you can check in to see how you can assist the unfolding crisis here.
Image via: @kering_official
