Primark boss steps down over ‘inappropriate behaviour in the direction of lady’
The CEO of clothing giant Primark has stepped down over allegations of “inappropriate behaviour towards a woman”. Associated British Foods (ABF), Primark’s parent company, said Paul Marchant has stepped down as chief executive of the high street fashion brand with immediate effect following an investigation.
The firm said: “He has made an apology to the individual concerned, the ABF board and also to his Primark colleagues and others connected to the business.” The company said Mr Marchant co-operated with the investigation, “acknowledged his error of judgment and accepts that his actions fell below the standards expected by ABF”.
“He has made an apology to the individual concerned, the ABF board and also to his Primark colleagues and others connected to the business,” the firm added. ABF added that they will continue to offer support the individual who brought the incident to their attention.
Mr Marchant has led the chain of 450 shops since 2009, when he took over as chief executive from founder Arthur Ryan. He was previously chief operating officer at rival New Look and had held roles at Debenhams, Topman and River Island.
George Weston, chief executive of ABF, said: “I am immensely disappointed. At ABF, we believe that high standards of integrity are essential.
“Acting responsibly is the only way to build and manage a business over the long-term. Colleagues and others must be treated with respect and dignity. Our culture has to be, and is, bigger than any one individual.”
ABF’s finance director Eoin Tonge will now act as interim boss of Primark, working with the brand’s senior executives and strategic advisory board, ABF said.
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