Shein and His Stock Market Ambitions: Challenges and Controversies

Fast fashion giant Shein has been trying to go public for over a year, but its efforts have been stymied by campaign groups, trade associations, and political players. After initially launching an offering in New York in late 2023, Shein shifted its ambitions to London. Despite a less restrictive political environment, Shein’s efforts have continued to stir controversy.

In 2023, Shein launched an offering to list on the New York Stock Exchange, but quickly ran into major political hurdles due to rising tensions between the United States and China, as well as concerns about the company’s business practices. As a result, Shein shifted its efforts to London, hoping to find a more favorable environment.

However, Shein’s efforts to go public in London have also faced challenges. The U.K. financial regulator has received several separate letters from campaign groups and associations seeking to derail Shein’s plans. The letters have raised concerns about the company’s business practices and labor conditions in its supply chains⁽²⁾.

Despite these challenges, Shein continues to pursue its goal of becoming a publicly traded company. The company hopes to launch its IPO in the first quarter of next year, subject to approval from financial regulators. If successful, Shein could become one of the largest IPOs in fast fashion history.