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Primark CEO Paul Marchant Resigns After Behaviour Complaint, ABF Shares Drop. Paul Marchant, the long-time boss of Primark, has resigned following a complaint about his behaviour toward a woman in a social setting. Parent company Associated British Foods (ABF) said Marchant acknowledged an error of judgement after an external legal investigation and has since apologised. ABF CEO George Weston said he was "immensely disappointed", stressing the importance of respect, dignity, and a culture built on integrity. The company is maintaining contact with the woman who raised the complaint and has offered her support. Marchant joined Primark as CEO in 2009, leading major international expansion into Europe and the U.S., and overseeing nearly half of ABF’s £20bn in annual sales. His exit comes at a challenging time, with the retailer reporting a recent drop in UK and Ireland sales, which make up 45% of its revenue. ABF shares fell by nearly 4% following the announcement, signalling investor unease. Eoin Tonge, ABF’s finance director, has been named interim CEO of Primark, while Joana Edwards will step into his former role. Analysts say the leadership shake-up could add uncertainty to the pace of Primark’s international growth.
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