Danish seafood processing giant Espersen is temporarily suspending its activities in Russia following the news March 8 that McDonald's -- its largest customer -- is closing its stores in Russia.

Espersen will temporarily stop activities of its Russian subsidiary, including production in Novgorod, Russia.

McDonald's, the subsidiary's largest customer, has discontinued its Russian activities for the time being, and this removes a significant part of the reason for Espersen's activities in Russia, the company said.

"Our 91 Russian colleagues are going through a difficult time and we are now focusing on how we can best help and support them - practically as well as financially," said CEO Klaus Beyer Nielsen.