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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
National
RFI

Shein opens first store in Paris as scandal and criticism mount

Riot police patrol outside Paris’s BHV department store on 5 November 2025, as Chinese ultra fast-fashion giant Shein opens its first-ever physical shop. The launch comes amid a scandal over child-like sex dolls previously sold on the brand’s website. AFP - DIMITAR DILKOFF

Chinese ultra fast-fashion giant Shein on Wednesday opened its first-ever physical store inside Paris’s BHV department store. The brand’s rock-bottom prices and opaque supply chains have long been criticised for their environmental and human costs – while a recent scandal over child-sex-themed dolls sold on its website has added to the controversy.

The opening has divided shoppers, with some eager to browse while others vow to stay away.

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