Perhaps #sustainability does matter. At least when a company stands accused of unfit working conditions, considerable environmental damage (including CO2 emissions, microplastic shedding….), appropriation of IP, avoiding taxation and use of cotton produced by forced labor. Shunned by the US, SHEIN turned to London to confidentially file for its IPO. But…according to Sam Kerr, Gustav Hoejmark-Jensen, Crisitano Dalla Bona, and Taku Dzimwasha, Shein has yet to implement its financial advisors’ supply chain recommendations. They write “though Shein wanted a summer IPO, there are doubts even an autumn listing is possible, the first source said, if it proceeds, a 2025 floatation is more realistic.” Advisors are likely worried because “those responsible for a prospectus are liable to pay compensation to an investor who has suffered a loss” if there are misleading statements in the document….” according to a source. They continue…quoting a source “there are accute concerns among buysiders about Shein’s supply chain, particularly around modern slavery and working conditions.” Maxine Bédat Matt Powell Sarah Kent Zofia Zwieglinska Helen Reid Livia Giuggioli Firth Leslie Johnston, M.Sc. Joel Makower Heather Clancy John Elkington Paul Foulkes-Arellano Sydney Badger Grace Zuncic Kathleen Talbot Brett Mathews Christine Goulay Deborah Weinswig 韋葆蘭 Sucharita Kodali Tariq Fancy
When do consumers wake up and care? When does regulation do enough to make a lasting difference? When does the majority of the sector care about the future more than quarterly earnings or their personal payout? I’ve talked to three talent execs just this month about huge opportunities in fashion & beauty, new & legacy brands & not one single word about impact or innovation beyond growth strategies or creative strategies that support growth. Sadly impact doesn’t seem to even be on investor checklists for top talent. 🤦🏻♀️
SHEIN’s issues with working conditions, environmental damage, and other ethical breaches highlight the urgent need for transparency and reform. Moving forward with an IPO without addressing these concerns could harm their reputation and pose risks to investors. This situation reminds us that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword but a crucial part of responsible business practices.
Why do they even want a listing to start with? Aren’t they “successful” enough (in their own way of course) already? Is it just about the founders wanting to cash out via the listing?
Thanks for continuing to follow up on this Ken. I was wondering about this earlier this week.
Could it be the start of something new?
Scott Newton - FYI
Founder of The Good Factory / Sustainability Director / Keynote Speaker / Board Member
3wA quick IPO is about 3 months anyway, so it makes sense that Shein won’t list until next year even without the supply chain due diligence. The question should rather be whether Shein would risk an IPO flop because they can’t get their house in order. But I doubt it will impact time line.