Shein suppliers accused of labour law breach

Some employees in six locations in Guangzhou were discovered to be working 75 hours per week according to an investigation by advocacy group Public Eye reported by the BBC. 

Public Eye, which usually focuses on Swiss companies’ overseas dealings, went to 17 factories supplying Shein and its parent Zoetop and spoke to 10 workers across six sites, which at that time were only receiving orders from Shein.

Workers they spoke to said they clocked three shifts per day, and often had only one day a month off. Hours worked were said to violate local labour laws mandating a maximum eight-hour working day and 40-hour week.

A Shein spokesperson said: “Upon learning of the report, we immediately requested a copy and when we receive and review the report, we will initiate an investigation.

“We have a strict supplier code of conduct which includes stringent health and safety policies and is in compliance with local laws. If non-compliance is identified we will take immediate action.” 

The fashion supply chain, especially that of rapidly growing pureplays that turn around product fast, is under increasing scrutiny over ethics in the supply chain. Boohoo, for instance, was embroiled in a scandal about conditions at some Leicester supplier factories.