ESOMAR Responds to Allegations of Unethical Conduct: Immediate Suspension of Slice MR
ESOMAR is aware of serious allegations regarding Op4G and SliceMR, and other organisations and individuals, in relation to unethical practices that could, if proven, seriously harm the credibility of our industry.
ESOMAR unequivocally condemns any fraudulent activity that undermines the integrity of market, opinion, and social research. The practices alleged in the indictment concerning fabricated survey data are fundamentally at odds with the ethical principles enshrined in the ICC/ESOMAR International Code on Market, Opinion and Social Research and Data Analytics. While all individuals are entitled to a fair trial, ESOMAR reaffirms its commitment to the highest standards of professional conduct and urges all members and stakeholders to remain vigilant in upholding these values.
On 22 April 2025 the ESOMAR Council convened for an extraordinary meeting and finds that the conduct attributed to Slice MR and associated individuals, as detailed in official legal filings, poses an immediate and serious reputational threat to the Association and the global research community. Effective immediately, Slice MR and all known affiliated individuals shall be suspended from all rights, privileges, events, and listings associated with ESOMAR membership, pending final disciplinary outcome.
We need to ensure that Users have confidence in the way in which research is conducted. This means full accountability and ensuring that ethical practices underpin all aspects of the research industry. We are treating this situation with the seriousness it demands.
Anne-Sophie Damelincourt, ESOMAR President
We expect all ESOMAR members to fully abide by the Code, which supports responsible and trustworthy research practices around the world in line with our commitment to integrity and transparency.
These decisions have not been taken lightly but reflect the gravity of the allegations made and the potential impact on the research industry. It is the view of the ESOMAR Council that these are necessary measures to uphold the trust placed in us by our members, partners, and the broader research community - and to ensure accountability when a member is alleged to act in a way that violates the Code and risks damaging the industry's reputation.
Joaquim Bretcha
Director General at ESOMARJoaquim Bretcha is the Director General of ESOMAR and an Economist at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. As a longstanding member of the ESOMAR Council, he has significantly contributed to the creation and expansion of the International Business Unit at Netquest since 2010. These roles ensure his constant involvement with the international market research community and keep him up-to-date with the latest industry developments.
Previously, Joaquim has held several key positions including Director of Marketing and Purchases at Auchan supermarkets in Spain, Retail Director at Kantar Worldpanel Spain, and Merchandising Director at Carrefour supermarkets in Spain. More recently, he co-founded the NGO "Health us Nepal" which aims to improve healthcare in the remote region of Humla, and he has shared his experiences as a TEDx speaker in England.
Joaquim's motto during his ESOMAR presidency, "Building bridges," reflects his commitment to connecting people and businesses to foster progress. His extensive background defines him as an experienced international manager with expertise in the data, insights, and market research industry. He is a strong business development professional with skills in negotiation, sales, public communication, team engagement, and management.