Shein says Shein influencer factory visits were about transparency

Shein has faced criticism for forced labor and poor working conditions at the Chinese factories that make the cheap goods it sells to American consumers. The company pushed back against that narrative by arranging for social media influencers to tour its facilities in Guangzhou, China. The influencers came away singing Shein’s praises. Critics say it was a staged event meant to divert attention from the real problems with Shein’s business practices.

Shein Influencer Controversy

Most of the four influencers who were selected to visit the factory tours have since removed their corresponding content to the Shein influencer factory visit, and none were immediately available for comment, according to CNBC.

Consumers were reportedly commenting on the influencers’ posts with negative remarks about Shein and the possible deceptiveness of the factory visit.

Currently, Shein is dealing with allegations of toxic materials in their clothes, forced labor, and human rights violations.

Shein has stated they have been removing clothes from their store with potentially hazardous materials.

Be sure to read our blog post about the background of Shein and fast fashion for more insight.