Fast-fashion giant Shein faces backlash over Paris store opening and sales of childlike sex dolls

Fast-fashion giant Shein is facing a fresh wave of controversy as it opens its first permanent store in Paris on Wednesday inside one of the city’s most iconic department stores

Fast-fashion giant Shein is facing a fresh wave of controversy as it opens its first permanent store in Paris on Wednesday inside one of the city’s most iconic department stores.

The launch of Shein, which has long drawn criticism over its poor green credentials and labor practices, in the heart of France’s fashion capital has triggered a backlash from environmental groups, Paris City Hall, and France’s ready-to-wear industry. The retailer is also under fire after French authorities last week found sex dolls with childlike features listed on the retailer’s website.

The case has been referred to prosecutors, and the government has warned that the global e-commerce platform could be barred from the French market if such content reappears.

In response, Shein said it has banned all sex-doll products, and temporarily removed its adult products category for review. The company has also launched an investigation to determine how the listings bypassed its screening measures.

Several dozen protesters camped outside the BHV department store on Wednesday morning, while some shoppers queued ahead of the opening. An online petition opposing the Paris opening has surpassed 120,000 signatures, and child-protection and environmental groups have condemned Shein.