Chinese online fast-fashion giant SHEIN has publicly acknowledged its plans to become a publicly traded company, marking a significant step after months of speculation. Executive Chairman Donald Tang, in an interview with The Times, confirmed the company’s ambition to embrace the “accountability and transparency” associated with a stock market listing.
While Tang refrained from specifying the exact timing, valuation, or chosen stock exchange, he emphasised that the decision ultimately rests with regulatory bodies.
This confirmation follows earlier reports suggesting SHEIN had confidentially filed for an IPO in London in June 2024. The company’s path to a public offering has been fraught with challenges, including previous attempts to list in the United States, which were met with regulatory and political resistance.
Subsequently, SHEIN shifted its focus to London, where it now faces scrutiny regarding its supply chain practices and allegations of employee exploitation, concerns that Tang vehemently denies.
Amidst these challenges, Tang asserted that SHEIN adheres to local laws, maintains lower product waste compared to competitors due to its efficient inventory management, and praised UK regulators for their “clear sense of separation between politics and regulation.”
In a move to further solidify its presence in the UK, SHEIN has joined the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), signaling its intent to operate as a “globalized company” with a strong local presence. This strategic move underscores SHEIN’s commitment to navigating the complex regulatory landscape and establishing itself as a legitimate player in the global market.
