Paul Marchant, the chief executive of high-street fashion giant Primark, has stepped down with immediate effect following an allegation regarding his behavior towards a woman in a social setting.
Parent company Associated British Foods (ABF) conducted an internal investigation into the matter, during which Marchant fully cooperated. He acknowledged his “error of judgment” and accepted that his actions did not meet ABF’s expected standards.
In a statement, ABF confirmed that Marchant had personally apologized to the affected individual, the board, and his colleagues at Primark.
In response to the resignation, ABF announced that its current finance director, Eoin Tonge, will assume the role of interim chief executive. Joana Edwards, the company’s financial controller, will step into the position of finance director.
ABF’s overall chief executive, George Weston, expressed disappointment over the situation, emphasizing the company’s commitment to integrity and responsible conduct.
“At ABF, we believe high standards of integrity are essential,” Weston stated. “Colleagues and others must be treated with respect and dignity. Our culture is, and must be, bigger than any one individual.”
The company reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment, pledging continued support for the woman involved in the complaint.
Primark’s Business Outlook
Despite the leadership shake-up, ABF confirmed that its interim financial results for the year remain on schedule for release on April 29. 
Earlier this year, Primark reported a rare decline in like-for-like sales across the UK and Ireland, with figures dropping by 6%. The company now projects only “low single-digit” sales growth for 2025, a notable decline from the mid-single-digit levels recorded in late 2024.
Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, commented on the downturn: “If Primark is struggling, you know the UK retail sector is in trouble.”
The resignation of Marchant marks a significant leadership change at Primark, as the company navigates both internal challenges and a shifting retail landscape.
About the Author
