The Governor of St. Petersburg, Alexander Beglov, has reported to Russian President Vladimir Putin about the successful replacement of Western enterprises that have left the city. This development was announced by the Kremlin's press service on Monday, January 29 according to Fontanka.
In his report to President Putin, Governor Beglov noted that the Western businesses had been thriving and performing well in St. Petersburg before their departure.
"They were developing their business here successfully and were generally earning well. But they left – they left and are gone," Beglov explained.
Initially, there were concerns that replacing these departed enterprises would be challenging and arduous. However, according to Governor Beglov, the transition has been smoother than anticipated. "But in a short time, other partners of ours arrived. As of today, we practically have no problems – we have replaced them," he clarified.
Beglov highlighted that the replacements for the Western companies were other producers whose products have been well-received by the residents of St. Petersburg. He drew a parallel with the past popularity of "Bush's legs" (a colloquial term for American chicken legs in Russia), indicating that the city has adapted to using products manufactured by alternative producers.
Most importantly, Beglov emphasized the role of local production in St. Petersburg. The city has been significantly involved in supplying local products to the market, indicating a shift towards greater self-reliance and local economic development.
The story does not specify which companies have left St. Petersburg, nor does it mention the new businesses operating there now.
Previously, there were reports about how McDonald's was quickly replaced by a Russian equivalent. Initially, this transition seemed successful, but the situation soon changed.
The chain, named 'Vkusno & Tochka,' adopted a logo similar to McDonald's and served nearly identical burgers. In 2022, the company's director reported selling about 120,000 burgers on the first day. However, the success did not last.
"There are moldy burger buns at the Russian 'McDonald's,'" claimed another user who also shared a photo clearly showing the bread covered in mold.
Furthermore, several customers have complained about finding insects in their food. Photos have also surfaced showing birds pecking at the buns, which were not stored indoors as they should have been.