A boss at a Dundee bar chain where staff have lodged a series of grievances has stepped down.
Richard Davies was one of the businessmen running Abandon Ship and Macmerry 300 – which have several venues in the city centre.
In January, the union Unite released a dossier containing allegations about the mistreatment of staff at the firms.
Bosses have since vowed to address the issues raised – including appointing an external investigator to assess their handling of claims of sexual misconduct against some staff members.
Now, Mr Davies has issued a statement on social media – saying recent months have been “incredibly difficult for all involved, not just myself”.
‘Frank and honest conversation with business partner’
Mr Davies – whose Abandon Ship clothing line was the inspiration for the bar of the same name – has not revealed the exact reason for stepping down.
But he said: “I had a frank and honest conversation with my business partner and operator of the bars and unfortunately we both realised that we have different paths we wish to take and that change was necessary.
“The decision was made that I step away from the business immediately.
“I wish them all the luck with whatever the future holds for them and the venues.”
Mr Davies says the brand helped him through his darkest times but “swimming against the current has to come to an end”.
He also plans to close the clothing brand.
He added: “I have always said the brand will end on my terms and this feels like the time for me to make a final bow.
“It will take a few months to wrap up but I will be open and transparent, as always, while I go through that process.
“I will also cease to release new art or create murals as ‘Abandon Ship Art’ and will no longer use the moniker ‘Rich Abandon Ship’ moving forward.”
Macmerry’s managing director Phil Donaldson said: “Change is always necessary for progression, both in your personal and your working life.”
Unite’s hospitality organiser Bryan Simpson says he is “disappointed” to see Mr Davies leave.
He says the union is still looking for issues to be addressed, including the ongoing investigation into sexual misconduct allegations.
