OREANDA-NEWS  The German manufacturer of sportswear and accessories Adidas AG avoided a direct answer to RIA Novosti's question about a possible return to the Russian market by selling its assets in Russia to the Lebanese Daher Group, emphasizing the need for "support of employees and partners" in the Russian Federation.

"In October, we announced the termination of our activities in Russia. The process of closing our business continues. Responsible implementation of measures and support of employees and partners affected by this decision are a priority for Adidas," the company's press service said when asked whether Adidas intends to return to the Russian market as a brand by reselling its Russian "daughter".

Earlier, a market source told RIA Novosti that the Lebanese Daher Group is negotiating to buy stores of the German brand Adidas in Russia, while there are no opening dates yet.

The German manufacturer of sportswear and accessories Adidas AG in March last year suspended work in Russia and temporarily closed retail stores. In October, the company decided to finally wind down its business in the country. And in May 2022, the Kommersant newspaper, citing industry sources, reported that Adidas was considering transferring Russian assets to a foreign investor.

Then the regional director of the department of retail real estate of NF Group Evgenia Khakberdieva told RIA Novosti that it would be difficult to replace Adidas in Russia, since there is a shortage of sports brands and goods in the country. According to her, the possible transfer of assets will be a plus for both the company and the market.