Asos Co Founder Quentin Griffiths Dies After Fall From Thailand Apartment Block

Quentin Griffiths, co-founder of online fashion retailer Asos, has died following a fall from a high-rise apartment block in Thailand, according to local police authorities.

Thai police have confirmed that Griffiths was found deceased on the ground outside a luxury hotel in Pattaya, an eastern coastal city, on 9 February. The British passport holder had been residing in a suite on the 17th floor as a long-term resident of the property.

A police investigator informed the BBC that Griffiths was alone at the time of the incident, his room remained locked from the interior, and no evidence of forced entry was discovered. The subsequent autopsy revealed no indications of foul play.

Griffiths established Asos in 2000 alongside Nick Robertson, Andrew Regan and Deborah Thorpe. He departed the company five years later whilst retaining a substantial shareholding in the business.

The retailer, originally named As Seen On Screen, initially sold fashion pieces inspired by garments worn by television and film personalities. The enterprise subsequently evolved into a comprehensive online fashion marketplace, offering hundreds of brands alongside proprietary product lines. At its peak, the company achieved a market valuation exceeding £6 billion.

An Asos spokesperson issued a statement expressing sadness regarding the news, acknowledging Griffiths’ significant contribution during the company’s formative years. The spokesperson extended condolences to his family and friends, noting the company’s enduring gratitude for his role in establishing the business.

Thai police have disclosed that Griffiths was involved in two ongoing legal proceedings which may have contributed to personal stress. The BBC understands he had separated from his second wife, a Thai national, and had been engaged in a legal dispute concerning a jointly operated business venture.

The Foreign Office confirmed it is providing support to the family of the British national and maintaining contact with local authorities in Thailand.

Current major shareholders in Asos include Anders Holch Povlsen, the Danish billionaire who controls clothing conglomerate Bestseller, and Mike Ashley, proprietor of Frasers Group.