Posted: Saturday, November 1, 2025. 1:38 pm CST.
By Zoila Palma: Controversial fast-fashion giant Shein is set to open its first-ever physical store in the world in Paris on November 5, despite widespread opposition from politicians, unions, and environmental groups.
According to The Business Times, the new store will open inside the BHV Marais department store, managed by Société des Grands Magasins (SGM), whose president, Frédéric Merlin, confirmed the launch as a “world first” for the brand.
Critics have denounced the decision, citing Shein’s record on labor conditions, environmental impact, and aggressive marketing toward young consumers.
The backlash has already had ripple effects across France’s retail sector.
Workers at the BHV store staged a strike over the opening, while Disneyland Paris scrapped plans for a related pop-up shop.
A French state-owned bank has also withdrawn from talks to purchase the Paris building amid the controversy.
Despite mounting “political pressure,” SGM said the opening will proceed and announced plans to expand Shein’s presence with five additional boutiques inside Galeries Lafayette stores across France.
Founded in China in 2012 and now headquartered in Singapore, Shein has rapidly grown into one of the world’s largest fast-fashion retailers, often accused of undercutting competitors through ultra-cheap, mass-produced clothing.
The company faces increasing scrutiny in Europe, including €191 million in fines in France for misleading advertising and environmental violations, and a €1 million fine in Italy for falsely claiming to be eco-friendly.
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Posted: Saturday, November 1, 2025. 1:38 pm CST. By Zoila Palma: Controversial fast-fashion giant Shein is set to open its first-ever physical store in the world
The post International News: Despite backlash, Shein set to open first-ever physical store in Paris appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
