Online fast-fashion giant Shein is outperforming many Australian high street retailers on ethical standards, according to the 11th Baptist World Aid ethical fashion report, released on Tuesday. The report assessed the ethical practices of 138 Australian and international companies, representing 543 fashion brands.
Key Findings
Overall, the report found that only 13% of the fashion companies surveyed could show evidence of paying a living wage to any of the workers in their supply chain. The organisation surveys companies on five broad supply chain topics, including worker empowerment and environmental sustainability, to score brands out of 100.
The ultra-fast fashion website Shein was given a score of 28. Despite criticism for its environmental impact and accusations of facilitating overconsumption through its very cheap prices, Shein outperformed several well-known retail companies, including Myer, Windsor Smith, Ghanda, and Quiksilver owner Boardriders.
Comparisons with Other Brands
- Ghanda and Windsor Smith were among the worst-rated companies with scores of zero.
- Temu, another Chinese e-commerce website and competitor to Shein, also received a score of zero.
- The swimwear label Seafolly was given a score of one.
- Activewear maker 2XU scored two, while Boardriders and formal wear favourite Bec and Bridge both scored three.
- Myer scored 20 for its retail arm and its apparel business.
Participation and Methodology
This year’s report noted that Shein supplied Baptist World Aid with additional information, whereas Myer, Seafolly, Ghanda, Windsor Smith, Boardriders, 2XU, and Bec and Bridge did not. Companies that did not participate in the research project were assessed only on their publicly available information, which tends to yield a lower ranking.
Baptist World Aid stated that its researchers undertook a rigorous engagement process to ensure that all assessed companies were aware of their inclusion in the research and had the opportunity to participate. A spokesperson for the organisation mentioned:
