Primark boss steps down after 'behaviour towards woman'

The boss of Primark has resigned after an allegation over his behaviour towards a woman “in a social environment”.

Primark’s parent firm, Associated British Foods (ABF), said Paul Marchant has stepped down as chief executive of the high street fashion brand with immediate effect following an investigation into the incident.

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,” it added.

ABF stressed that it will continue to offer support to the individual who brought the incident to its attention. George Weston, chief executive of Primark parent firm Associated British Foods, 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.