This week has seen significant developments for major industry players with Dame Sharon White announcing her departure from John Lewis and fast fashion giants Shein facing legal challenges.
- Dame Sharon White has confirmed she will step down as chair of John Lewis Partnership in September, paving the way for Jason Tarry’s succession.
- John Lewis is set to undergo substantial store refurbishments and expand its convenience sector, investing nearly £1bn over the coming years.
- Shein, the online retail giant, is embroiled in another lawsuit, this time with competitor Oh Polly, claiming copyright infringement.
- The British Fashion Council has expressed concerns over Shein’s forthcoming IPO amid ongoing legal and ethical scrutiny.
Dame Sharon White recently gave an interview to The Telegraph, confirming her impending departure from her role as the partnership chair of John Lewis come September. She reflected on overcoming considerable challenges such as the pandemic and soaring inflation, calling it a ‘watershed moment’ for the company. White noted that difficult decisions made over the past year have led to increased cash flow for the business.
Under her leadership, John Lewis plans to refurbish 80 of its stores, marking its first major refurbishment project in almost a decade. This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to invest nearly £1bn over the next three years. Moreover, the expansion of its convenience sector is a top priority, with a focus on strengthening its online presence and local range offerings.
Meanwhile, fast-fashion retailer Shein finds itself amidst legal troubles as it faces a lawsuit filed by Oh Polly in the English High Court. Oh Polly’s lawsuit, supported by its sister brand Bo&Tee, accuses Shein of copyright infringement and design right violations. This case adds to a list of previous lawsuits from other brands including H&M, Uniqlo, and Dr Martens.
Shein’s attempts at an initial public offering (IPO) continue to attract scrutiny. The British Fashion Council has voiced significant concerns regarding the listing, highlighting ongoing questions about the company’s business practices. Both Shein and Oh Polly declined to comment further on the matter.
These developments demonstrate the ongoing challenges and strategic shifts within the fashion and retail industry.
