Despite Shein's public assurances to improve working conditions in its supplier factories following the exposure of poor labour practices over two years ago, a recent follow-up investigation reveals that 75-hour work weeks remain commonplace in southern China.
Data from Swiss-based watchdog Public Eye, who interviewed employees in Guangzhou, where Shein manufactures many of its products, highlight the stark contradiction between the brand's sustainability rhetoric and the harsh reality faced by workers. The persistent overtime, often exceeding legal limits and the company's own code of conduct, underscores ongoing challenges within the ultra-fast fashion industry.
Since the initial scandal, Shein has invested heavily in reputation management, including reports of factory audits aimed at ensuring fair wages for workers. However, Public Eye’s report shows discrepancies have emerged regarding the validity of these audits, with quotes disappearing from Shein's website and conflicting statements from auditing firms. Furthermore, the intricate network of companies within Shein's organizational structure, coupled with opaque financial operations and the departure of its founder from the board, raise concerns about transparency and corporate governance, particularly in light of the company's planned IPO.
The lack of transparency and ongoing labour issues within Shein's supply chain pose challenges not only for potential investors but also for policymakers seeking to regulate the fast fashion industry. While some parliamentary initiatives aim to address these issues, effective regulation remains a distant goal.
Despite Shein's public assurances to improve working conditions in its supplier factories following the exposure of poor labour practices over two years ago, a recent follow-up investigation reveals that 75-hour work weeks remain commonplace in southern China.
Shein vowed in 2022 that it would improve working conditions and hours at suppliers, but a new study claims that nothing has changed. Fast fashion company Shein exploded in popularity during the pandemic.
Workers in Shein factories on average earn between 6,000 and 10,000 Chinese yuan per month, or about $831 to $1,385, according to a Tuesday report from human rights and environmental advocacy organization Public Eye.
"We have zero tolerance for forced labor. We have zero tolerance for child labor," says Shein's Pernot-Day, adding that the company requires its manufacturers to comply with their local laws. Some of Shein's 5,000-some manufacturers are now in Brazil and Turkey, but most remain in China.
We are committed to decarbonizing our supply chain, sourcing responsible materials and protecting biodiversity and animal welfare. We have set targets to reduce the environmental footprint of our products and facilities, including: Reduce our greenhouse gas emissions (scopes 1, 2 and 3) by 25% by 2030.
Major environmental issues associated with fast fashion brands like SHEIN, like water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, exposure to toxic chemicals, excessive textile waste and production of tons of carbon dioxide every year, are only a few consequences of SHEIN's unsustainable practices.
However, challenges include high workloads, job insecurity during market fluctuations, ethical concerns, and maintaining work-life balance in a competitive industry. Overall, SHEIN provides valuable experiences, but individuals should consider industry demands and personal preferences before joining.
The company has been accused of using manufacturers that have violated labor rights. A 2021 investigation by the Chinese digital publication Sixth Tone uncovered a pattern of "loose oversight and poor working conditions" at some of Shein's manufacturers.
Introduction: My name is Dan Stracke, I am a homely, gleaming, glamorous, inquisitive, homely, gorgeous, light person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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