Because of inappropriate behavior: Primark boss resigns

Dublin (Ireland) - Without warning, Paul Marchant, the head of fast fashion brand Primark, has resigned from his position as managing director. He is accused of having behaved "inappropriately" towards a woman.

Primark is a discount fashion chain with several stores throughout Germany.
Primark is a discount fashion chain with several stores throughout Germany.  © Monika Skolimowska/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

Primark's parent company, Associated British Foods (ABF), announced on Monday that Marchant had been dismissed with immediate effect.

They also reported: "He has apologized to the individual concerned, the ABF board and his Primark colleagues and others associated with the company."

The person who reported the incident is still being offered emotional support.

George Weston, managing director of ABF, was hugely offended by the incident and stressed that as a company and board they believe that high standards of integrity within their ranks are "essential".

Marchant took over as Managing Director from then founder Arthur Ryan (†83) in 2009 and has since helped the company to achieve steady growth and global success.

Paul Marchant took over Primark back in 2009. Since then, the number of stores around the world has more than doubled.
Paul Marchant took over Primark back in 2009. Since then, the number of stores around the world has more than doubled.  © PAUL FAITH AFP

The parent company has already announced a successor for Marchant. For the time being, Eoin Tonge will take the helm of the low-cost fashion chain as interim CEO until a new managing director is found.

Tonge was previously Finance Director at ABF. His role will now be taken over by Joana Edwards, the current financial controller of the ABF Group.

However, the company's website currently still lists Paul Marchant in the role of Managing Director.