A 'significant concern' | Shein misses out on joining FTSE 100 and sparks workers' rights debate

The fast fashion giant Shein is set to miss out on joining the FTSE 100 index after a barrage of criticism and calls to the UK government from workers’ rights groups to intervene.

Shein, which operates in China but is headquartered in Singapore, outlined plans to list on the London Stock Exchange, but has missed out on the opportunity due to “falling short of the minimum shares sold to qualify for inclusion”.

This news comes after critics retaliated at the news of the potential flotation, saying the brand, which is known for its eye wateringly low-cost garments, shouldn’t be allowed on The Exchange due to its lack of transparency and poor adherence to labour rights.

Historically, the company has come under scrutiny for workers’ rights violations – such as allegedly forcing its factory workers to work more than 70 hours a week and allegations of forced labour in China’s Uyghur region – and numerous lawsuits relating to copying the designs of independent and small businesses.