Russians lined up to get a last bite of their favourite burger and fries after the American fast-food chain announced their exit from Russia.

The company had already decided to temporarily close its restaurants in the country in March. They included the iconic Pushkin Square location in central Moscow, which broke global records when opening on Jan. 31, 1990, as more than 30,000 people queued around the block for Big Macs costing 3 roubles.

The opening of the first outlet 32 years ago was widely seen as a symbol of thawing of Cold War tensions and was a way for millions of Soviet citizens to sample Western food and culture, even though the cost of a burger was several times bigger than the daily budgets of many city dwellers.

McDonald's soon became one of the most affordable, and quick, lunch options in Russia.

McDonald's plans to sell 84% of its nearly 850 restaurants in Russia to a local buyer, the future of the franchisees, remains unclear.

The new owners will not be allowed to use McDonald's name, logo, branding and menu. The food chain will also retain its trademark in Russia, hinting at a possible return. In the meantime, restaurants will start reopening under new ownership and branding in June, a source close to the company said.
-Reuters