French department store BHV Marais, in central Paris, is ending its partnership with Shein after criticism of the fast-fashion retailer’s presence in the store. Multiple French media outlets report that BHV Marais’s operator has sold the landmark outlet, with the ownership change involving the departure of its outgoing CEO and the acquisition by a group led by Karl-Stephane Cottendin. The store is now expected to end its cooperation with Shein and could result in the closure of Shein’s first physical store there by this Christmas.
The decision follows months of controversy over Shein. Sources cite public outcry related to the retailer’s environmental impact and labour practices. The allegations also include criticism of Shein’s online sales, including products described as childlike sex dolls.
While the outlets differ slightly on details of the process, they broadly agree that the partnership termination is linked to the store’s ownership change and that the backlash prompted the move.
