Shein Faces Controversy Amid BHV Store Expansion Across France's Provinces
February 24, 2026
Shein expands into new BHV stores owned by SGM across Dijon, Reims, Grenoble, Angers, and Limoges as part of a broader provincial rollout.
The five provincial openings are scheduled for mid-February 2026, following the initial Paris BHV Marais debut that sparked controversy and ongoing regulatory scrutiny.
Four additional BHV locations in Limoges, Angers, Dijon, Grenoble, and Reims will open on the same day, extending the Paris model to the regions.
Paris’s initial experiment did not meet expectations, with pricing perceptions cited as a barrier, while regional opportunities are being considered through targeted promotions and broader product selections.
If the regional experiment fails within a year, it will be halted, according to SGM leadership.
A significant political backlash exists, with more than 80 deputies seeking to ban Shein in France over environmental, employment, and consumer health concerns.
A February barometer shows 38% of French consumers bought ultra-fast fashion in 2025, attracted by low prices and wide ranges.
France’s government is continuing regulatory pressure, including attempts to block Shein’s marketplace for third-party sellers despite the regional expansion.
The rollout follows months of controversy over Shein’s practices, including scrutiny over toy-like dolls and weapons and adaptations to pricing and offerings.
In Angers, BHV staff reported an anxious atmosphere with several flagship brands already leaving Galeries Lafayette properties.
Space constraints at Mans and Orléans locations prevent imminent openings for now.
CFDT voices concerns about job security and store viability amid Shein’s arrival and the uncertainty among employees.
Summary based on 4 sources