Shein has announced a €10M ($13.3M) investment in its new Designer Incubator Program. This initiative aims to support 250 emerging European designers over the next five years. Through Shein X, designers retain ownership of their work while accessing Shein’s global platform. Nearly 100 French designers have already benefited, including Mathilde Lhomme. Shein plans to further its sustainability efforts through this program, emphasizing circular fashion choices. The company’s EMEA president, Leonard Lin, stressed the importance of empowering European talent while advancing Shein's sustainability goals.
Shein has launched a €10M ($13.3M) initiative aimed at nurturing emerging European fashion designers. Unveiled during a fashion show at Pavillon Vendôme, the Shein X Designer Incubator Program plans to onboard 250 designers over the next five years. Shein’s approach involves empowering designers to focus on creativity while the company manages manufacturing, marketing, and retail. According to Shein, this allows designers to reach a global audience and share in the profits, all while retaining ownership of their creations.
Shein has already seen success with nearly 100 French designers participating in Shein X. Designers like Mathilde Lhomme and Oxana have gained international exposure, with their creations now available in over 150 markets globally. Seven designers who participated in Shein’s Paris runway show were previous Shein X participants, highlighting the program's impact on their careers. This initiative reflects Shein’s commitment to fostering European talent and helping designers grow on a global scale.
Leonard Lin, Shein’s EMEA president, emphasized the company’s commitment to empowering European designers while advancing sustainability goals. Lin highlighted that Shein is not only focused on bringing new talent into the fashion industry but also on driving circular fashion choices. As designers in the Shein X program incorporate circularity into their designs, Shein aims to push the adoption of sustainable practices across its offerings, positioning itself as a catalyst for change in the fashion industry.
Amid its expansion efforts, Shein faces increasing regulatory scrutiny in Europe. German legislators are reportedly drafting new regulations to ensure that Chinese discount retailers like Shein and Temu comply with standards for product safety, environmental protection, and consumer rights. These regulations could impact Shein's operations in Europe, as the company must navigate complex compliance requirements to continue its growth in the region. Despite these challenges, Shein remains focused on its mission to support emerging designers and promote sustainability.
Will Shein’s €10M investment redefine European fashion?
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