Companies

Primark CEO resigns amid allegations of misconduct

Apr 10, 2025 United Kingdom

Associated British Foods (ABF) has announced that Paul Marchant has resigned as CEO of Primark amid allegations of misconduct. He will be replaced on an interim basis by Eoin Tonge, ABF’s finance director

Paul Marchant’s resignation follows an investigation, initiated by Primark’s parent company and carried out by external consultants, into an allegation made by an unidentified woman about “his behaviour towards her in a social environment”.

According to ABF, Marchant cooperated with the investigation, acknowledged his error of judgment and accepted that his actions “fell below the standards” expected by the company. He has apologised to the individual concerned, the ABF Board and also to his colleagues at Primark and others associated with the business.

“I am immensely disappointed. At ABF, we believe that high standards of integrity are essential”, said George Weston, Chief Executive of ABF.

He continued: “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”. Going forward, the company will continue to support the individual who reported this behaviour.

Meanwhile, Eoin Tonge, ABF Finance Director, will serve as Primark Chief Executive on an interim basis, working with both Primark’s senior management team and the Strategic Advisory Board. Joana Edwards, ABF Group Financial Controller, will serve as ABF Finance Director on an interim basis.

Image Credits: drapersonline.com

United Kingdom Companies Fashion Management Primark