Primark CEO Paul Marchant Steps Down After Conduct Investigation

THE WHAT? Primark’s CEO, Paul Marchant, resigned with immediate effect after admitting to an “error of judgment” during an interaction with a woman in a social context last year. Parent company Associated British Foods (ABF) confirmed his departure following an internal probe and cited a previous incident involving “inappropriate communication.”

THE DETAILS 

• Marchant’s resignation follows an investigation initiated by ABF, which was carried out by external lawyers.
• The company stated that Marchant acknowledged his actions fell below expected standards.
• A previous issue of improper conduct was also investigated in the past, with “proportionate action” taken at the time.
• Under Marchant’s 15-year tenure, Primark expanded to more than 450 stores across 17 countries and boosted operating profit to over £1 billion.
• ABF’s finance director, Eoin Tonge, has been appointed as interim CEO of Primark.

THE WHY? The resignation underscores ABF’s priority to uphold ethical standards across its diverse consumer-oriented portfolio, which includes fast fashion, personal care items, and broader retail operations. As a key revenue driver for ABF, Primark’s leadership shift places a renewed focus on workplace integrity and responsible business practices in an increasingly scrutinized consumer market.

The post Primark CEO Paul Marchant Steps Down After Conduct Investigation appeared first on Global Cosmetics News.