Primark boss Paul Marchant resigns after claims about his ‘inappropriate behaviour’

CEO of Primark Paul Marchant speaking to the media at Penneys flagship store on Mary Street, Dublin, as Primark have announced significant investment in the Irish market with the creation of hundreds of new roles. Picture date: Friday November 26, 2021.
Paul Marchant has been CEO of Primark since 2009 (Picture: Brian Lawless/PA)

Primark boss Paul Marchant has resigned over his behaviour towards a woman.

The nature of the incident is unclear, but it has resulted in Marchant apologising to both the woman and the board of Primark’s parent company.

Described by Associated British Foods (ABF) as an ‘error of judgment’, it is understood to have taken place in a social setting.

The company said: ‘His actions fell below the standards expected by ABF.’

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.’

Mr Marchant had led the fashion retail chain since 2009, when he took over from the company’s founder Arthur Ryan.

He had joined Primark from fast fashion rival New Look. Before that, he was with Debenhams, Topman and River Island.

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