In Paris, dozens of shoppers gathered outside the 19th-century BHV department store in the city’s Marais district as online fast-fashion giant Shein opened its first permanent retail store. The event drew excitement from fans and fierce criticism from lawmakers and retailers over the company’s low-cost business model. Ahead of the 1 p.m. opening, store workers handed out pastries to customers waiting in line, while riot police stood guard to prevent unrest. Some shoppers said they came out of curiosity or to shop for family members who regularly buy from the brand online. Others wanted to challenge the negative perception surrounding Shein’s Chinese roots.
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