ASOS Co-Founder’s Girlfriend Breaks Her Silence Following His Death

The tragic passing of Quentin Griffiths, co-founder of the online fashion retailer ASOS, has left his loved ones and colleagues in shock. The 58-year-old was found dead after falling from the 17th floor of a condominium in Pattaya, Thailand, on February 9. His girlfriend, Jom Thipanongsri, aged 26, has shared her profound sadness and disbelief over his untimely departure in an interview with The Sun.

Griffiths’ death is currently being investigated by authorities, who are treating the incident as a suspected suicide. Thipanongsri, who had been in a relationship with Griffiths for a few years following his divorce from his ex-wife Ploy Kringsinthanakun, expressed her astonishment at the news, stating that he had displayed no signs of distress or suicidal thoughts prior to his loss.

In her account, Thipanongsri revealed that she was unaware of Griffiths taking antidepressants or any other medications that might have indicated a struggle with his mental health. “No one close to him ever thought he would take his own life,” she said, revealing her heartbreak over the situation. Since hearing of his death, she has experienced overwhelming grief, admitting, “I have been crying every day since.”

Thipanongsri also shared that she and Griffiths had connected deeply during their relationship. They began dating after his separation from Kringsinthanakun, with whom he shares two children. While Griffiths had engaged in legal disputes with his ex-wife, which involved the shared business operations between them, Thipanongsri mentioned that he did not delve into details concerning his ongoing court cases, opting to discuss mainly the custody arrangement for their children. Griffiths had been granted custody, while his ex-wife had limited access.

Recounting her interactions with Griffiths’ children, Thipanongsri described them as “cheerful and good people,” and expressed her concern for their well-being following their father’s death. “I feel sorry for them now, and I don’t know who will take care of them,” she lamented.

Moreover, Thipanongsri fondly remembered Griffiths as “a kind, cheerful person who always made me smile.” She affectionately referred to him as her hero, cementing the depth of her feelings: “He was a special person, my hero — I love him so much and miss him every single day.”

Griffiths was a pivotal figure in the evolution of ASOS, having co-founded the company in London in 2000 alongside Andrew Regan, Deborah Thorpe, and Nick Robertson. The name ASOS originated as an abbreviation for “As Seen on Screen,” reflecting the brand’s initial focus on providing fashionable items inspired by designs worn by movie and TV stars. Over the years, ASOS has grown into a global fashion powerhouse, with its value peaking at an estimated $8 billion.

Prior to his departure from the company in 2005, Griffiths held the position of marketing director, during which he played a crucial role in establishing ASOS as a key player in the online fashion retail space. Even after stepping away from day-to-day operations, he retained a significant shareholding in the company for nearly a decade, underscoring his lasting influence on the brand.

As the investigation into Griffiths’ death continues, those who knew him are grappling with the loss of a man who had made a remarkable impact in both the fashion industry and the lives of those around him. Supporters and family members are left mourning not only the loss of his innovative contributions but also the warmth and kindness he brought to their lives.