Doug Wates takes on business analyst role at Primark

Doug Wates has joined Primark as a business analyst, after a year away from the retail sector.

Wates previously spent over six years at Asos as Logistics Manager. He has also worked at Topshop/Topman in the role of Logistics and Distribution Manager.

“13 months ago I left Asos after six great years. I had planned to take a few months off to celebrate Christmas, spend time with family, rest and recharge after a hectic few years and learn some new skills,” Wates said in a LinkedIn post.

“Then Covid happened, and like many others my career plans were thrown into disarray.”

“After spending most of the last year as a full time dad (which, by the way has been amazing), I'm now very excited to be starting a new role as a business analyst with Primark.”

New Coronavirus restrictions

Earlier this week, Primark said it would lose an additional £220 million in sales under new restrictions to control the spread of Covid-19 in the UK.

As per government guidelines, our stores in the UK are closed. The well-being and safety of our colleagues and customers remains our top priority. We’ll let you know once our stores will be opening again. Take care, stay safe and thank you for your ongoing support 💙 pic.twitter.com/M6at28PpqA
— Primark (@Primark) January 5, 2021

Its owner, Associated British Foods, expects to lose £650 million in sales in the year to September, up from the £430 million it had flagged up on 4th December.

This followed the government announcing the likes of Manchester and Birmingham must join London and the south east of England in closing non-essential stores.