The boss of Primark has resigned after an allegation over his behaviour towards a woman.

Primark's parent firm, Associated British Foods (ABF), said Paul Marchant has stepped down as chief executive of with immediate effect following an investigation.

It said the incident related to "his behaviour towards (a woman) in a social environment."

Chief executive of ABF George Weston said: "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."

Paul Marchant has stepped down

The company said Marchant co-operated with the investigation, "acknowledged his error of judgment and accepts that his actions fell below the standards expected by ABF."

They added: "He has made an apology to the individual concerned, the ABF Board and also to his Primark colleagues and others connected to the business."

ABF stressed that it will continue to offer support to the individual who brought the incident to its attention.

Weston added: "Colleagues and others must be treated with respect and dignity. Our culture has to be, and is, bigger than any one individual."

Primark in Oxford Street (file pic)

ABF’s finance director Eoin Tonge will now act as interim boss of Primark, the company confirmed.