China's SHEIN to open first permanent retail stores in France
What's the story
Chinese fast-fashion giant SHEIN has announced its plan to open its first permanent physical stores in France. The move comes as part of a deal with department store owner Societe des Grands Magasins (SGM). The new "shop-in-shops" will be located at the BHV department store in central Paris and Galeries Lafayette department stores across five provincial cities.
Growth plan
New outlets to create 200 jobs
The first store is set to open on the sixth floor of the BHV in early November. Further openings are planned at Galeries Lafayette department stores in Dijon, Grenoble, Reims, Limoges, and Angers. The new outlets are expected to create around 200 jobs in France. This expansion comes after SHEIN's successful pop-up stores in cities like Madrid and Paris.
Market impact
Controversies surrounding SHEIN's fast fashion
SHEIN, which offers affordable clothing items like €12 dresses and €20 jeans, has been facing criticism from other retailers, politicians, and regulators in France. The country has already backed a draft law regulating fast fashion that would ban SHEIN from advertising if implemented. Despite these challenges, SGM president Frederic Merlin believes the launch will attract younger customers to their department stores.
Controversies
Criticism over working conditions and environmental impact
SHEIN has been criticized for its environmental impact and working conditions. An investigation by Swiss advocacy group Public Eye in 2024 found that workers at some of SHEIN's suppliers worked up to 75 hours a week, despite the company's promises to improve conditions. The company, which ships to over 150 countries, has mainly operated online through its website and app since its founding in China in 2008.