Ukrainian campaigners are rallying for the Labour mayor of the West Midlands to take action against Cadbury’s US owner, Mondelez, for maintaining business connections in Russia. Their call to action highlights Cadbury’s historic values of community and pacifism, urging immediate condemnation of the company’s Russian ties.
- Activists from B4Ukraine have formally approached the mayor, emphasizing Cadbury’s Birmingham roots and the need to uphold the brand’s foundational values.
- The Mayor, Richard Parker, who recently visited the Cadbury factory, has not publicly commented on the matter, according to reports.
- Mondelez’s CEO has previously defended their operations in Russia, citing a lack of pressure from shareholders as justification.
- While companies like Unilever have exited Russia, Mondelez continues its presence, raising questions from various groups.
In a significant move, Ukrainian campaigners are urging Richard Parker, the Labour mayor of the West Midlands, to publicly challenge Mondelez, the American owner of Cadbury, over its continued business dealings in Russia. This call to action is driven by a firm belief that the historical values of Cadbury, a brand with deep roots in Birmingham, must be defended amidst the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
B4Ukraine activists have penned a letter to Parker, appealing for him to leverage his position to press Mondelez on its operational stance in Russia. This plea comes as Mondelez’s CEO, Dirk Van de Put, has defended their operations by stating that investor concerns over moral implications are virtually non-existent, with shareholders showing no pressure to withdraw from the Russian market.
Interestingly, Parker’s recent visit to the Cadbury factory in Bournville, Birmingham, adds another layer to this developing narrative, though conversations and outcomes from this visit have not been disclosed by the mayor’s office.
Mondelez, through a spokesperson, has publicly condemned the aggression against Ukraine and highlighted their continued support for Ukrainian citizens, boasting a $15 million commitment through its foundation to aid those affected by the conflict. Despite these declarations, the company’s active market presence in Russia remains a contentious issue.
Adding to the complexity, Unilever’s recent sale of its Russian subsidiary underscores a contrasting approach within the industry, marking a firm stand in response to the geopolitical climate. This departure stands in stark comparison to Mondelez’s sustained operations, sparking debate among activists and political figures alike.
The ongoing situation with Cadbury’s parent company, Mondelez, and its Russian ties continues to spark debate and demand decisive action.
