Discount Chain 'Mere' Abruptly Closes All Stores in Lithuania Amid Sanctions

The discount retail chain "Mere" has abruptly ceased operations across Lithuania, with all its stores closing suddenly.

Customers and employees alike have reported the widespread closures. One reader informed Delfi that employees were instructed to vacate the premises within 15 minutes and were assured they would receive their salaries for the upcoming month. This sudden shutdown has left customers bewildered and staff displaced.

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Currently, all 'Mere' stores are suddenly closing throughout Lithuania. When calling employees, they were told they have to close within 15 minutes and quickly leave the building. This is happening all over Lithuania, as far as we were told. Employees are being paid their salaries for the next month suddenly.

Searches at a Vilnius location revealed closed doors with a sign citing "technical difficulties." Social media groups dedicated to "Mere" stores also show numerous posts from residents observing the closures, with some suggesting the stores might remain shut until July 27.

The abrupt halt in operations appears linked to recent European Union sanctions. The EU's 21st sanctions package includes Russian businessman Sergey Snayder, identified as one of the owners of "Mere." While the Lithuanian entity "Valientė" was acquired by Spain's "Vigalight S. A." last year, subsequent revelations indicated that Russian businessmen, including Snayder, are behind the Spanish company. This connection to sanctioned individuals likely precipitated the store closures in Lithuania.

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Due to technical difficulties, the store will not be open.