Inside Shein’s Chaotic Paris Store Opening
Protesters and shoppers confronted each other outside Paris’s famous BHV department store as Chinese fast-fashion company Shein launched its first physical location in the French capital.
The opening created a sharp divide — one part of the city welcomed the new store with enthusiasm, while another showed fierce opposition. Long queues of eager customers stood beside groups of demonstrators, as police maintained a visible presence.
“Cries of shame and anti-Shein placards filled the air to my right-hand side, while seemingly unperturbed shoppers snaked out of sight to my left.”
Shein has repeatedly faced criticism over its labor and environmental practices. The anger intensified shortly before the Paris launch when reports surfaced about childlike sex dolls being sold on the company’s website.
Within hours of the store’s opening, the French government announced it would suspend Shein’s website following a prosecutor’s investigation into the allegations.
Author’s Summary
The opening of Shein’s first Paris store revealed deep public divisions, sparking protests, investigations, and debate over the brand’s ethics and influence on fast fashion.