PRIMARK CHIEF REITERATES SORROW OVER FIRE TRAGEDY

The chief executive of ABF, owners of fast-growing retail chain Primark, has again reiterated his sorrow at the factory fire which claimed the lives of many of those who make the store’s clothes. 

In the company's  annual report, published today, George Weston says: "We were deeply saddened by the events in April 2013 where the Rana Plaza building in Bangladesh collapsed, killing more than 1,100 people.

“ A Primark supplier occupied the second floor of this eight-storey building which was also the location of a number of other garment manufacturers.

“Our response focused on meeting the immediate needs of the victims and, in parallel, organising long-term compensation.

“We donated food to some 1,300 families shortly after the tragedy, and have since paid short-term financial support of six months’ salary to more than 3,600 workers in the building, irrespective of their employer.

“Primark has committed to provide long-term financial compensation to victims who worked for its supplier, and their dependants."

ABF (formerly known as Associated British Foods) also owns extensive food interests, including British Sugar, but Primark has been its star performer with profits up by a staggering 44 per cent over the past 12 months.

The company recently revealed plans to expand its premises in Freshney Place, Grimsby.