#Sponcon fail… Shein invited six influencers to its factory in Guangzhou, China, where the social-media stars posted content praising the fast-fashion giant’s working conditions. The posts went viral as TikTokers called out the ”vacation” as a PR gimmick that glossed over alleged labor-rights abuses.
Concerns: Last month US lawmakers asked for an independent audit of Shein over allegations that the retailer relies on Uyghur forced labor.
Ongoing issues: One investigation said Shein employees worked 18-hour shifts in unsafe environments for as little as $20/day.
Failing score: The Fashion Transparency Index, which measures brands’ sustainability and working conditions, rated Shein 2.2%... out of 100.
Fast fashion’s factory problem… The $106B fast-fashion industry makes its money by quickly turning #trends into affordable ’fits. Shein’s not the only fashion co that’s gotten supply-chain side-eye. In 2013 a Bangladesh clothing factory collapse killed more than 1K people. Forever21 landed in hot water after accusations that it underpaid workers. Now Zara and Uniqlo are being sued in France over allegations related to Uyghur forced labor.
You can’t influence your way out of structural problems… The internet didn’t buy the squeaky-clean narrative Shein’s influencer field trip presented, and now conversations about the brand’s labor practices dominate its hashtags. As it reportedly prepares to IPO, Shein may benefit from focusing on its supply chain over its socials.