📦 Gig Workers Speak Out
In recent months, dozens of gig workers at Shein warehouses have posted videos on Chinese platforms like Bilibili and Kuaishou. They share details of long shifts, picking hundreds of items without breaks, and struggling to meet their monthly earnings targets. One worker in southern China boasted of picking 650 items in one shift to hit his target of $1.5K per month, while others report injuries from lifting heavy goods during 11-hour shifts. These vlogs offer a rare glimpse into the conditions behind Shein’s fast-paced growth.
💸 Pay Based on Productivity
Shein uses a "more work, more pay" model, meaning warehouse workers are paid based on their productivity. Junior workers reportedly earn around $997 monthly, while senior staff can make up to $1.7K. However, workers say this system leads to uncertainty. One worker in a January video complained about low pay due to fewer orders, making it hard to earn a stable income. "There isn’t enough work to go around," she lamented, highlighting the precarious nature of these gigs.
🛠️ Labor Dispatch and Outsourcing
Most of Shein’s warehouse workers are not direct employees but are hired through third-party staffing agencies, under China's labor dispatch system. This model allows companies to bypass strict labor laws, keeping costs low while maintaining flexibility. Although Chinese regulations cap labor dispatch workers at 10%, experts say this rule is rarely enforced. Shein claims its practices follow industry standards, but workers in the videos paint a different picture, showing how gig labor leads to job instability and limited benefits.
🌍 Global Scrutiny and Future Plans
Shein is now facing global scrutiny as it eyes a potential IPO in London. Lawmakers and critics in the US and Europe have raised concerns about its labor practices and reliance on gig workers. However, Shein continues to expand. In August 2023, the company secured approval for a $514M supply hub in Guangzhou, China. While the logistics are being fine-tuned, workers hope their voices will be heard. "We just want fair pay and stable work," said one worker. Despite challenges, Shein remains a powerhouse, shipping millions of items globally every day.
Do gig workers deserve better protections and pay?
