PARIS: Shein opened its first permanent physical store in Paris under heavy police presence as the French government moved to suspend the fast-fashion giant’s website following outrage over the sale of childlike sex dolls.
Hundreds of shoppers streamed into the store on the sixth floor of the BHV department store — a historic Paris landmark across from City Hall — while riot police set up barriers to hold back protesters.
The government announced it was suspending Shein’s online platform “for the time necessary for the platform to demonstrate to the public authorities that all of its content is finally in compliance with our laws.”
The decision followed a judicial probe into the sale of childlike sex dolls on Shein’s site and rival platform AliExpress.
Despite the uproar, long queues formed outside. “Times have changed, generations have changed,” said 30-year-old Mohamed Joullanar, who had only shopped online with Shein before. “I’d never thought of going to BHV before… But now, thanks to Shein, I’m here.” Another customer, Hammani Souhaila, said prices in-store were “more expensive than online,” after buying a €16.49 shirt for her daughter.
Outside, children’s rights activists protested. “We protect Shein and the culture of crimes against children while survivors of childhood sexual violence are pushed aside,” said Caroline Di Ruzza from Mouv’Enfants. Leftist groups distributed flyers condemning “suspected forced labour” and “pollution” linked to Shein’s supply chain.
Shein, founded in China in 2012 and now based in Singapore, has long faced scrutiny over its environmental footprint and factory working conditions. The company said it will “fully cooperate” with authorities and has banned the sale of all sex dolls.
BHV operator Frederic Merlin said he briefly considered cancelling the partnership but decided to proceed, hoping Shein’s presence would boost store traffic. – AFP
