The chief of Primark has stepped down "with immediate effect" over allegations of "inappropriate behaviour towards a woman."
Associated British Foods (ABF), the parent company of Primark, confirmed that Paul Marchant has resigned as the CEO of the high street fashion brand immediately after an investigation.
"He has made an apology to the individual concerned, the ABF board and also to his Primark colleagues and others connected to the business," the company stated. 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."
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The firm reiterated its commitment to continue providing support to the individual who reported the incident, reports the Mirror.
Mr Marchant had been at the helm of the fast fashion chain, which operates more than 450 shops, since 2009, succeeding founder Arthur Ryan as the chief executive. Prior to this, he served as the chief operating officer at rival New Look and held positions at Debenhams, Topman and River Island.
George Weston, the CEO of ABF, expressed: "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."
Eoin Tonge, the finance director for Associated British Foods (ABF), will step in as interim head of Primark. He'll work closely alongside the brand's senior executives and strategic advisory board, the company announced.
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