Super Retail Denies Allegations in Toxic Workplace Lawsuit

Super Retail Group is rejecting serious allegations made by two former executives who claim a toxic workplace culture was driven by a secret relationship between the company’s CEO and a former human resources head. In its defence submitted to the Federal Court, the company denies any wrongdoing and presents details that challenge the former employees' version of events in a case that seeks $30 million in damages.

The company, which owns Rebel, BCF and Supercheap Auto, is being sued by former employees who became whistle blowers. They allege a culture defined by intimidation, secrecy and executive misconduct. A key part of their case focuses on what they describe as a widely known romantic relationship between the CEO and the former HR leader, which they argue played a role in their dismissal.

Super Retail’s defense states that internal investigations found no evidence of misconduct. It also claims that one of the former employees previously dismissed the rumors about the affair. Additionally, the company alleges that this same individual bullied a colleague and took extended leave that went beyond their entitlements. These points, according to the company, provide a more nuanced view than what has been presented by the plaintiffs.

The case also has broader implications for Super Retail’s public image and stock value. The company argues that legal representatives for the claimants referenced media coverage from similar lawsuits involving large companies and suggested that public attention could harm financial performance. This raises concerns about whether the threat of negative publicity may have influenced how the case was pursued.

Source: The Australian, Proactive Investors, Capital Brief