Wargaming, originally founded in Minsk, leaves Russia and Belarus in the wake of the Ukraine conflict. Business activities are transferred, studios are closed.
In the past few weeks, Wargaming has carried out a strategic review of its global business activities in the wake of the conflict in Ukraine. In doing so, the company decided to no longer own or operate stores in Russia and Belarus. Effective March 31, Wargaming has transferred its live games business in Russia and Belarus to the local management of Lesta Studio, which is no longer affiliated with Wargaming. According to its own statements, Wargaming will not benefit from this process either now or in the future; on the contrary, it is expected to suffer a significant drop in sales as a direct consequence of this decision. Lesta Studios, acquired in 2011, primarily looks after World of Warships.
“Wargaming will complete the operational transition with due urgency while complying with all laws while continuing to ensure the safety and support of employees. During the transition period, the live products in Russia and Belarus will continue to be available and operated by the new owner.”
“Wargaming has also started the closure of its Minsk studio. This closure will be done in strict compliance with government regulations. The heads of each product and service will be meeting with their teams shortly to assess the impact of this decision on each department Wargaming will provide the highest level of support to employees affected by the change.”
With studios and staff in Belarus, Russia and Ukraine, Wargaming has not been spared from corporate tensions. Creative director Sergey Burkatovskiy packed his bags in support of Russian views. “Sergey is an employee of the company and has expressed his personal opinion, which categorically does not coincide with the company’s point of view. All our employees are now focused on helping our 550+ colleagues from Kyiv and their families… Sergey’s opinion stands in complete contradiction to the company’s position. He is no longer a Wargaming employee.”
Wargaming’s headquarters have been in Nicosia on the island of Cyprus since 2011, where they even allowed themselves their own office complex in 2015. Wargaming serves the European market from a branch in Paris, while North America is managed from San Francisco. There are also studios in Western Europe, North America and Australia. Colleagues in Minsk will probably be offered positions in one of the branches, if possible.
Source: wargaming
The post Wargaming wants to leave Russia and Belarus appeared first on Gamingsym.