Ted Baker "refresh" after squeezing the row

The fashion chain Ted Baker intends to "refresh" his policies and procedures after an investigation into the "forced hug" scandal that led to the departure of his boss, Ray Kelvin.

He said the investigation by a law firm into the charges against its founder had ended, but did not want to comment on the points raised.

The review had "identified several areas for improvement," Ted Baker said.

Lindsay Page, Interim Executive Director, was appointed on a permanent basis.

Kelvin resigned on March 4 after taking voluntary leave in December when allegations of this behavior surfaced. Employees had launched an online petition accusing him of inappropriate comments and behavior.

He denies the allegations that were raised on the Organize website of the workplace.

Ted Baker – founded by Mr. Kelvin more than 30 years ago – said that following an investigation by Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF), "it has already begun to update its human resources policies. to align them with current best practices. "

The law firm reviewed employee policies, procedures and grievance procedures.

"As part of this investigation, HSF interviewed a significant number of people, including current and former employees of the company, as well as others who have been able to observe Ted Baker's employees closely. examined the documentary evidence provided by companies and provided by the respondents, "said the company.

At the time the allegations were made, the company said the cuddles were "part of Ted Baker's culture, but absolutely not stressed," and that Mr. Kelvin greeted many people with a hug.

The company will now renew training for all employees on human resources policies and procedures and on acceptable workplace conduct, maintain a confidential and independent hotline and place greater emphasis on on the problems of employees on the board. Sharon Baylay, non-executive director, will be responsible for the board.

A staff survey will be held later this year.

"We are determined to learn from this process and, to move forward, to create a better environment for all employees, where they always feel respected and valued." We implement changes and improvements and we are committed to developing best practice HR policies and procedures – the Ted culture we seek to develop and improve in the future, "said President David Bernstein.

He added that Mr. Page, who had been with the company for 22 years and was formerly CFO and COO, had "a clear vision of future opportunities and priorities".