Advertising agency IPG has joined its competitor WPP in suspending its business in Russia.
The decision made in consideration of the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine will affect 200 staff members currently working in Russia.
In a memo sent to IPG employees, CEO Philippe Krakowsky highlighted that the company initially ceased to work with their Russian clients as soon as the invasion began. However, this current move to completely cease operations involves ending the company’s support of its Russian colleagues.
“Essentially, we hoped that by supporting our colleagues in Russia we could live up to the part of our DNA that values and seeks to protect our people across IPG,” Krakowsky said.
“But recent and escalating attacks on civilian targets, including hospitals, make it regrettably clear that the trajectory of the conflict is escalating.”
“Therefore, we have decided to suspend our operations in Russia.”
READ MORE: Omnicom becomes latest agency to shut down operations in Russia
The company has however pledged to pay its Russian staff for a minimum of six months.
It will also be in contact with them as it ascertains aspects of operations and management to ensure “continuity for any non-Russian clients who remain active in the market.”
Despite this news, the agency has nonetheless donated sums to humanitarian organisations focused on addressing the crisis in Ukraine.
“For the month of March, IPG is also matching individual gifts from IPG employees to organizations providing assistance to Ukrainians impacted by the war,” Krakowsky added.
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