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Lawmakers Urge Cadbury Owner Mondelez to Cease Russia Sales Amid War Funding Concerns
More than 70 Members of Parliament and peers have formally appealed to the chief executive of Mondelez, the parent company of Cadbury, demanding an end to chocolate sales in Russia. These parliamentarians argue that by continuing to operate in Russia, Mondelez is indirectly contributing to Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine. As consumers in the UK prepare for Easter celebrations with Cadbury products, the food giant faces increasing scrutiny over its ongoing presence in the Russian market, with critics highlighting the ethical implications and potential damage to Cadbury’s long-standing reputation.
Political Pressure Mounts on Mondelez to Exit Russian Market
Cross-Party Letter Condemns Continued Operations
Seventy-two politicians have jointly addressed a letter to Dirk Van de Put, Mondelez’s chief executive, expressing strong disapproval of the company’s sustained business activities in Russia. The letter, obtained by the Mail, asserts that “Mondelez is prioritizing financial gain over ethical principles,” suggesting this conduct is detrimental to the esteemed Cadbury brand, historically associated with ethical business practices, Quaker ideals, and community engagement in the West Midlands region.
Key Political Figures Voice Concerns
Notable signatories of the letter include prominent political figures such as former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith and former shadow chancellor John McDonnell. They are urging Mondelez to immediately terminate all commercial affiliations with Russia and to publicly disclose any “financial contributions to the Russian government,” thereby enabling stakeholders to assess Mondelez’s accountability.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
Labour MP Alex Sobel, co-chair of the all-party Ukraine group and initiator of the letter, has also extended outreach to major football clubs that maintain sponsorship agreements with Mondelez. This action indicates a broader campaign to increase public awareness and pressure on Mondelez regarding its Russian operations.
Growing Criticism and Ethical Dilemma for Chocolate Giant
Cadbury Descendant Joins Chorus of Critics
Mondelez has encountered escalating criticism concerning its operations in Russia. James Cadbury, a descendant of company founder John Cadbury, has publicly voiced his disappointment with the current situation, adding to the external pressure and internal ethical considerations for the multinational corporation.
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Concerns Over Indirect War Funding
Politicians contend that through business taxes, which the Kremlin is set to increase, Mondelez is indirectly providing financial support to the Russian government’s war chest. Mondelez markets several brands in Russia, including Milka and Oreo. While Cadbury Dairy Milk products are also available, Mondelez maintains that these are supplied through unauthorized distributors and imports.
Mondelez Defends Stance Against Full Withdrawal
Mondelez argues that a complete withdrawal from Russia would be counterproductive, potentially leading to its operations being seized and controlled by the Russian government. The company suggests that remaining engaged, albeit with scaled-down activities, is a more responsible approach under complex geopolitical circumstances.
Counterarguments and Company Response
Mondelez Claims Operational Scale-Down
A spokesperson for Mondelez stated that ceasing operations entirely would be considered if it would definitively halt the war. The company maintains it has significantly reduced its activities in Russia, resulting in decreased product sales and a declining market presence.
Advocacy Groups Highlight Brand Heritage and Ethical Responsibilities
Nezir Sinani, executive director of B4Ukraine, an alliance of advocacy organizations advocating for businesses to sever ties with Russia, referenced the historical ethical foundation of Cadbury. Sinani pointed out the contrast between the company’s founders, who built communities for their workers, and the current context where the brand’s owner operates under a regime requiring companies to potentially support military conscription of employees.