When “Technical Problems” And “Technical Issues” Take On New Retail Meaning In Moscow, Particularly During The Holidays. A Hotel Name Is Not Yet Again As Advertised…
Signs affixed to doors in December 2022:
“Dear Guests! We inform you that Gucci store is closed due to technical issues. Please accept our apologies for this inconvenience. We are happy to see you soon! If you need support please contact to our store number 8-495-785-35-35 or 8-985-233-08-45 from 11: a.m. to 19 p.m.”
“Dear visitors! The [Vacheron Constantine] store is closed due to technical problems. We apologize for temporary inconveniences.”
“Dear visitors! The [Hugo Boss] store is closed due to technical problems. We apologize for temporary inconveniences.”
“Dear visitors! The [Tiffany & Co.] store is closed due to technical problems. We apologize for temporary inconveniences.”
“Dear Customers, Van Cleef & Arpels boutique is temporarily closed. For all requests, please contact us via email: client.relations.russia@vancleefarpels.com We apologize for the inconveniences.”
Enter the Moscow Marriott Grand Hotel and all looks as it should- signage, Bonvoy Frequent Guest check-in area, Christmas decorations… But, Marriott relinquished its management contract so Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, Courtyard, and other branded properties in the Russian Federation may retain the name, but not the connectivity to Bethesda, Maryland-based Marriott International.
Toronto, Canada-based Restaurant Brands International Inc (2021 revenues approximately US$5.7 billion), continues to operate Burger King restaurants in the Russian Federation through its master franchisee. Outside of Ukraine and the Russian Federation, Canada has third-largest population of individuals of Ukrainian descent.
