Shanghai Emerges as a Prime Destination for Global Fashion Brands; French Associations Struggle with Fast Fashion Waste

Shanghai is solidifying its position as a key hub for global fashion brands, witnessing a surge in first store openings. In 2024 alone, the city saw 1,269 new first stores, with flagship locations accounting for 17 percent. The city government is actively promoting this "first-launch economy" through various initiatives, including financial rewards for brands opening flagship stores. Jing'an and Huangpu districts are key areas for these openings, with Nanjing Road West emerging as a top destination for high-end fashion and lifestyle brands. Italian fashion brand ZONA20 MILANO recently launched its first store in China at Galeries Lafayette in Shanghai. Meanwhile, in France, charitable organizations are facing challenges due to the rise of fast fashion. Associations are overwhelmed with donations of low-quality clothing that are quickly discarded. The textile recycling sector is in crisis, struggling to manage the influx of these items. Many garments are made of synthetic materials, making them difficult to recycle. Additionally, the market for second-hand clothing is becoming saturated, partly due to competition from Chinese exports. Marine Olacia, a former stylist, founded SAO Textile, a startup that transforms discarded fishing nets into recycled yarn for the French textile industry.