Danone suspends imports of evian, Alpro products into Russia

MOSCOW. April 20 (Interfax) - French food company Danone has ceased importing evian and Alpro products into Russia.

"Danone has decided to significantly adapt its operations in Russia, by: Refocusing its portfolio on essential dairy products, infant and medical nutrition, and ceasing all imports of evian and Alpro products [...]," the company said in a press release on its results for the first quarter. Danone produces mineral water and plant-based beverages under the evian and Alpro brands.

The company had already announced earlier that it was stopping all new investments in Russia, including advertising, brand activations and consumer promotions.

Danone also reiterated that it does not take cash, dividends or profits from Russia, and will donate any profits made in the country to humanitarian relief organizations. The company said earlier that it does not plan to exit the Russian market.

Danone's net sales grew 10.2% to 6.24 billion euros in the first quarter, with like-for-like (LfL) growth amounting to 7.1%. LfL sales grew by 5.7% in Europe, 5.5% in the United States and Canada, 15.3% in China, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, and 7% in the rest of the world.

The company reaffirmed its guidance for LfL sales growth of 3-5% in 2022.