Primark CEO Paul Marchant has stepped down from his role with immediate effect following an allegation from a woman concerning his “behaviour towards her in a social environment”.An investigation into the allegation was initiated by ABF and carried out by external lawyers following the claim.
ABF said Marchant cooperated with the investigation, acknowledged his “error of judgement” and “accepts that his actions fell below the standards expected by ABF”.
It added that he made an apology to the individual concerned, the ABF board and other Primark employees.
George Weston, CEO 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 added it is committed to providing a “safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment where all employees and third parties are treated with dignity and respect” at all levels of the company.
Following Marchant’s resignation, Eoin Tonge, ABF finance director, will act as Primark CEO on an interim basis working with the senior Primark management team and Primark’s Strategic Advisory board.
Joana Edwards, ABF group financial controller, will act as interim ABF finance director.
