Bare shelves, arrival of Shein… At the former Galeries Lafayette in Reims, “it’s sad to cry”

The imposing building with its elegant facade sits in the shopping street of Vesle, in the city center of Reims (Marne). “Modern store”, proclaims a sculpted pediment inherited from the last century. Above the glass doors, the BHV (Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville) sign replaced that of “Galeries Lafayette”. The interior does not depart, with its floors with ornate balustrades, running around a large atrium. Discount labels have popped up everywhere, due to sales. But here and there, shelves and displays are bare, in the leather goods, shoes, beauty and jewelry departments.