Ukrainian retail continues to experience structural changes: a number of international brands and retail chains have announced a reduction in operations or a complete exit from the Ukrainian market in recent years. In 2026, the trend continues – companies are reviewing strategies, optimizing costs and closing some locations. This is reported by “Pershy Biznesovy“, the PromPolitInform portal reports.
Among the brands that have already left the Ukrainian market or significantly reduced their presence are IKEA, which has not resumed plans to open full-fledged stores; H&M, which has suspended the operation of physical outlets; Decathlon, which closed stores back in 2022; and Jysk, which has reduced part of its retail space and revised its investment plans.
In the fashion retail segment, Colin’s, LC Waikiki and a number of European brands operating through franchise networks have previously announced their exit or pause in operations. Some of them temporarily stopped development, while others closed some stores due to logistical difficulties and falling purchasing power.
In grocery retail, the situation is less extensive, but also noticeable. Some international chains, in particular SPAR, have reduced the number of locations, and some franchisees have changed their format or switched to local brands. According to market participants, several foreign operators are considering the possibility of exiting or temporarily conserving their activities.
As a reminder, the key reasons are the high cost of logistics, the difficulty of supplying imported goods, the increase in operating costs and uncertainty regarding long-term planning. At the same time, the exit of large players opens up opportunities for Ukrainian companies that are actively occupying the vacated niches.
