Shein assembles a lineup of former politicians to defend its interests
Accused of unfair competition, regulatory non-compliance and labor law violations, the Chinese fast fashion site Shein has assembled a distinguished group to defend its interests and reputation. The brand has enlisted former European commissioner Günther Oettinger, former French interior minister Christophe Castaner, human rights activist, lawyer and former junior minister Nicole Guedj, as well as the former president of the International and European Pole of MEDEF (France's largest employer federation) Bernard Spitz. Each has its own task and network, all aimed at opening the doors of power and spreading the good word – in short, lobbying.
Castaner quickly praised the "most popular brand in the world" and criticized the bill that penalizes fast-fashion brands. "It's quite disgusting" to want "to make people pay more" by taxing products for the working-class, he told French television channel BFM on January 27, echoing Shein's talking points developed by its communications teams.
Since 2023, the platform has enlisted Image 7, an agency whose clients include Hermès, Kering and Accor, allowing it to enter Paris's business circle. For crisis management, Shein relies on Plead, a subsidiary of the Havas Group led by Yannick Bolloré under Vivendi. The firm has also hired Fabrice Layer, a former lobbyist for the Chinese company Huawei, who is under judicial investigation for active corruption within the European Parliament.
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