Co-founder of British retailer Asos dies after falling from balcony in Thailand
South China Morning Post
by ReutersFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Co-founder of British fashion retailer ASOS, Quentin Griffiths, has passed away after falling from a balcony in Pattaya, Thailand. Police investigations suggest the incident may have been a suicide, with no signs of foul play detected. Griffiths, 58, was found on the ground below his 17th-floor residence following the fall on February 9. CCTV footage revealed no intruders, and an autopsy is being conducted to confirm the cause of death.
Griffiths co-founded ASOS in 2000 with Nick Robertson, the great-grandson of tailor Austin Reed. The pair built the company into a global fashion powerhouse, known for its fast-fashion offerings and online presence. Griffiths' friend mentioned he had been concerned about potential lawsuits from his former wife, a Thai national, though no direct connection to the incident has been established.
This tragic event carries significance beyond personal loss, as it involves a key figure in the retail industry. ASOS's rise under Griffiths' leadership positioned it as a major player in online fashion, influencing global trends and e-commerce practices. The circumstances of his death, occurring in Thailand, also add an international dimension to the story, drawing attention from both business and general audiences.
The case highlights the pressures faced by high-profile individuals, including legal and financial concerns, which may contribute to such incidents. While authorities continue their investigation, the incident serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that even successful entrepreneurs can encounter.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/20/2026