Zara’s Secret to Fast Fashion
Nov 12th, 2012 by Shahista Kassam
- What is Zara’s secret to fast fashion trend?
Keynote speaker Mahesh Nagarajan made me extremely curious to learn more about the concept of supply chain. I was particularly interested to research further about Zara’s supply chain operations because I personally admire Zara’s style of clothing and the different choices it offers to consumers such as myself.
As stated by the title “Zara’s Secret to Fast Fashion” is a quick, fast and efficient supply chain system. “”Fast fashion” system depends on a constant exchange of information throughout every part of Zara’s supply chain” (Zara’s). This allows Zara to produce new products with the latest styles and designs each week. Being able introduce new products in small quantities leads to having low inventory, which makes the whole system more efficient. This serves as an advantage to Zara over other fashion stores such as H&M.
But, why can’t other retail fashion stores carry out a similar supply chain operation?
This is because communication of information in such a rapid pace is not easy. As quotes by Mahesh “forecasting supply is extremely difficult”.
However, Zara takes a lead by controlling its supply through a well-organized communication system, its investment in technology as well as a strong operation management system. This ultimately helps Zara adapt quickly to new trends with minimum costs allowing its customers to have more choice thus demand more.
Works Cited
Tiplady, Rachel. “Zara’s Taking the Lead in Fast-Fashion.” BloombergBusinessWeek Global Economics. Bloomberg, 4 Apr. 2006. Web. 12 Nov. 2012. <http://www.businessweek.com/stories/2006-04-04/zara-taking-the-lead-in-fast-fashionbusinessweek-business-news-stock-market-and-financial-advice>.
“Zara’s Secret for Fast Fashion – HBS Working Knowledge.” Zara’s Secret for Fast Fashion – HBS Working Knowledge. Harvard Business Review, n.d. Web. 12 Nov. 2012. <http://hbswk.hbs.edu/archive/4652.html>.
Picture Reference:
“Zara Is Coming To The V&A Waterfront | 2oceansvibe.com.” Zara Is Coming To The V&A Waterfront | 2oceansvibe.com. 2oceanvibe NEWS, 9 Mar. 2012. Web. 12 Nov. 2012. <http://www.2oceansvibe.com/2012/03/09/zara-is-coming-to-the-va-waterfront/>.