Shein, a Chinese fast-fashion powerhouse, has rapidly risen to become one of the world's largest clothing firms in just a few years. Known for releasing thousands of new products daily, Shein encourages consumers to indulge in frequent shopping sprees. Despite its popularity and affordability, the company faces significant scrutiny over labor practices and environmental impact. The BBC uncovered that Shein workers endure 75-hour workweeks in violation of Chinese labor laws. Allegations of forced labor and child labor within its supply chain further compound the firm's controversies.
Despite these issues, Shein's global sales soared to an estimated $36.9 billion (£30.2 billion) last year, according to GlobalData. The firm remains private and does not disclose its global financial results; however, UK profits doubled in 2023, exceeding £24 million as reported in a Companies House filing. The brand's business model emphasizes swift production and low prices, with many garments priced under £10. This model draws customers like Emily Morris from Swindon, who spends about £20 monthly on Shein, appreciating the variety and affordability despite questionable quality.
"You can almost always find what you're looking for, even if the quality is bad," said Emily Morris.
Other consumers, such as Sophie Wills from Birmingham, are attracted to Shein's affordability, while Thando Sibenke cites price, convenience, and variety as her reasons for shopping at the retailer. Despite their popularity, Shein's practices raise ethical concerns. The company has been accused of prioritizing cost over sustainability and ethics, a compromise some customers are willing to make to save money.
"I'm happy to talk about the fact I shop at Shein because I know I'm not the only one," stated Emily Morris.
Shein's labor practices continue to draw criticism. Workers reportedly earn between one to two yuan per t-shirt, equivalent to approximately 11p to 22p. Critics argue that even a small increase in wages would have a negligible effect on garment prices.
"You could raise their pay and it would make a minimal amount of difference to the garment price," remarked Sarah Johnson.
"Doesn't get paid an awful lot of the final price," she added.
In response to mounting allegations, Shein asserts its commitment to fair treatment within its supply chain.
"Committed to ensuring the fair and dignified treatment of all workers within our supply chain," stated Shein.
"We strive to set the highest standards for pay and we require that all supply chain partners adhere to our code of conduct," the company maintained.
Despite these assurances, concerns remain. Georgina, a former customer, expressed discomfort with purchasing Shein products even from charity shops due to their negative impacts.
"The negatives massively outweigh the positives and even when seeing Shein clothing in charity shops, I don't feel comfortable buying it," she explained.
As Shein prepares for a stock market flotation in the UK, scrutiny over its labor practices and environmental impact intensifies. The company's rapid growth and consumer appeal are juxtaposed with allegations of unethical practices in its supply chain.