Inditex aims to roll out integrated online and store model in China

Spanish fashion conglomerate Inditex has its sights set on becoming an apparel powerplayer in China, as its chairman and CEO, Pablo Isla, met with Zhong Shan, China's International Trade Representative to reaffirm the group's commitment to the Asian market.

Isla shared plans with Zong to roll out the group's integrated online and brick-and-mortar store model throughout the country, where its store footprint has grown to 500 stores in Greater China in over 60 cities. Inditex's online sales also continue to grow across Greater China and are supported by it's partnership with Alibaba's Tmall.com.

The chairman also met with the Mayor of Beijing, Wang Ashun, last week where Inditex currently has 40 stores, to explore opportunities to expand the group's commercial presence in the city. During the discussions, Isla stressed the importance for the group to implement it's eco-efficient store model which delivers energy consumption and emission savings of over 30 percent, in comparison to conventional brick and mortar stores.

Inditex’s green stores are fitted with the latest lighting, climate control and water consumption systems and all the materials used for the store's interior, such as woods, paper and plastics are certified and fully recyclable.

The group first launched in Greater China in 2004, when it opened a Zara flagship store in Hong Kong, which was followed by other Zara stores in Shanghai in 2006 and Beijing in 2007. Inditex has also introduced its other brands such as Pull & Bear, Bershka, Massimo Dutti and Stradivarius to Beijing as well.