Primark CEO Paul Marchant Resigns Over Inappropriate Conduct Towards a Woman

Paul Marchant has resigned as CEO of Primark following an investigation into his conduct in a social setting, acknowledging his lapse in judgment.

Paul Marchant, who served as Primark’s Chief Executive Officer for over 16 years, has stepped down with immediate effect after an internal investigation into his behaviour in a social environment. Parent company Associated British Foods (ABF) confirmed his departure and appointed Eoin Tonge as interim CEO.

The investigation, conducted by external lawyers, was launched following a complaint about Marchant’s behaviour towards a woman in a social setting. ABF stated that the executive “recognised his lapse in judgment” and accepted that his actions “did not meet the company’s standards.”

George Weston, CEO of ABF, expressed his disappointment: “At ABF, we believe integrity is fundamental. Our culture must be greater than any individual.”

Marchant also apologised to the Primark team, ABF’s board of directors, and the affected individual. The company assured that it would continue to support the complainant and reaffirmed its commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace.

Following the announcement, Primark’s shares fell by 2.2%, reflecting uncertainty within the company, which remains focused on its expansion, particularly in the US market.