Introduction
Zara’s rise as a fast fashion icon prompts questions like “was Zara originally a retailer or manufacturer.” Founded in 1975 by Amancio Ortega as a retail store in A Coruña, Spain , Zara expanded from Ortega’s manufacturing roots.
Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. offering customizable manufacturing that blends retail appeal with production expertise. We are also a partner of brands such as American Eagle Outfitters, Uniqlo, Gap, Zara, Levi’s, and Lee, providing ethical, tailored apparel. If Zara’s journey inspires your brand, our customization delivers bespoke products with low MOQs and sustainable materials.
The Origins: 1963–1975
- Founder: Amancio Ortega, a former shop assistant and son of a railway worker.
- First Venture: In 1963, Ortega started Confecciones Goa (later part of Inditex), a manufacturing workshop in A Coruña, Spain, producing quilted bathrobes and lingerie.
- Business Model: Initially, he manufactured garments for other retailers and wholesalers, with no direct consumer-facing store.
When was Zara founded?
Zara was founded by Amancio Ortega and RosalÃa Mera in 1975. The company is now publicly traded on the Bolsa de Madrid. Ortega retains a significant stake, making him one of the wealthiest individuals globally.
History of Zara
Zara transformed the fashion industry with its ability to quickly design, produce, and deliver new clothing to stores. Known for pioneering the fast fashion model, Zaraâs approach is based on consumer trends and immediate feedback.
Key Milestones
- 1975: First Zara store opens in A Coruña, Spain.
- 1988: Zara expands internationally, opening a store in Porto, Portugal.
- 1989: Enters the US market.
- 1991: Launches Zara Home for home goods.
- 1998: Zara joins the online world with the launch of its website.
- 2001: Inditex goes public.
- 2003: Introduction of the RFID technology in stores to improve inventory management.
- 2010: Launches online sales in several European countries.
- 2011: Begins eco-friendly initiatives with the eco-store model.
- 2016: Zara manages to open its 2,000th store worldwide.
Zara : Company Overview
ZARA is a globally renowned fast-fashion brand founded in 1975 in A Coruña, Galicia, Spain, by Amancio Ortega and Rosalía Mera. It began as a small clothing store with a simple vision—to bring high-fashion designs to the masses at affordable prices. Over time, ZARA evolved into the flagship brand of Inditex, the world’s largest fashion retailer, headquartered in Arteixo, Spain. Known for its trend-driven clothing, accessories, footwear, and home décor, ZARA operates nearly 3,000 stores in over 96 countries and maintains a powerful digital presence with online sales contributing 24% to total revenue in 2022.
Pioneering the “Fast Fashion” Revolution
Unlike traditional retailers with months-long production cycles, Zara introduced an agile, fast-fashion model. This involved cutting lead times to mere weeks, entailing a rapid design-to-store process termed “instant fashion.
- Vertical integration through parent company Inditex, formed in 1985—encompassing brands such as Zara, Bershka, and Massimo Dutti.
- In-house and nearshore manufacturing (Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Turkey) allowing quick response to market demand—about 60% of garments are produced nearby .
- A just-in-time inventory system with bi-weekly product restocking—Zara launches approximately 12,000 new designs annually , far surpassing typical competitors
This operational agility creates both consumer excitement and prudent inventory turnover, minimizing markdowns.
Was Zara Originally a Retailer or a Manufacturer?
Zara began as a manufacturer (Confecciones GOA, making robes) but transitioned into a retailer with its first store in 1975, evolving into a revolutionary “fast fashion” brand by controlling the entire supply chain, from design and production to sales, allowing rapid response to trends. So, it started with manufacturing roots but quickly became a retailer, using vertical integration (control over design, production, and sales) as its core model.
Key Points:
- Origins: Founder Amancio Ortega started in the textile industry, making robes in 1963, which formed the manufacturing base.
- The Shift: The first Zara store opened in 1975, marking the move from just making clothes to selling them directly to consumers.
- Vertical Integration: Zara’s success lies in owning its supply chain, allowing for quick design, production, and distribution, unlike traditional retailers who often outsource.
- Parent Company: The larger group, INDITEX, was formed later in 1985 to consolidate these growing retail operations.
Key Manufacturing Partners for Zara
Zara has a combination of in-house production facilities and third-party manufacturers located around the world. While the company has its own factories in countries like Spain, it also partners with international manufacturers to meet its production needs.
- Inditex Group: Zara’s parent company owns multiple factories in Spain, Portugal, and other countries.
- Local Manufacturers: Zara works with smaller factories and suppliers from countries like Turkey, Morocco, and India.
- Overseas Manufacturers: For specific items and larger quantities, Zara also partners with suppliers in China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam.
What Does Zara Do?
Zara, a prominent player in the global fast fashion industry, specializes in designing, manufacturing, and distributing apparel and accessories that align closely with the latest fashion trends. Renowned for its rapid production processes, Zara can move designs from the drawing board to store shelves within a matter of weeks, significantly faster than traditional retail cycles. This agility allows the company to refresh its inventory frequently, ensuring that store offerings resonate with current fashion trends and consumer preferences.
Evolution: The Hybrid Model Emerges
By the 1990s, Zara perfected its current hybrid structure:
| Role | How Zara Evolved |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Kept ~50% production in-house (Spain/Portugal/Turkey), focused on trendy items. |
| Retailer | Expanded to 2,000+ stores globally with a consistent brand experience. |
| Supply-Chain Innovator | Built the Arteixo logistics hub (1990s) to connect factories directly to stores. |
Comparative Analysis: Zara vs. Traditional Retailers
| Brand | Origin | Core Advantage | Production Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zara | Manufacturer (1963) → Retailer (1975) | Speed, vertical integration | 50% in-house + 50% controlled external |
| H&M | Retailer (1947) → Later added production | Scale, affordability | 100% outsourced |
| Uniqlo | Retailer (1984) → Fabric innovation partner | Fabric tech, quality basics | Strategic factory partnerships |
| Gap | Retailer (1969) → Global sourcing | Americana style, marketing | Fully outsourced |
Legacy of Zara’s Manufacturing Roots
- Speed as Strategy – Because they started as makers, they built systems for rapid prototyping, small-batch runs, and quick replenishment.
- Store-as-Lab Concept – Store feedback goes directly to nearby factories, creating a closed-loop system most retailers can’t replicate.
- No Advertising Needed – Manufacturing margins fund retail growth; Zara spends <0.3% of revenue on ads (vs. 3–5% for competitors).
How Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. Fits This Model
Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. operates as a professional garment manufacturer supporting global brands that follow a Zara-like sourcing strategy.
With over 39 years of experience, we help brands achieve:
- Fast production cycles
- Flexible order quantities
- Full customization
- Stable quality across repeated orders
Brands We Work With
We are also a manufacturing partner of leading global brands, including:
American Eagle Outfitters
Uniqlo
Zara
Gap
Levi’s
Lee
These partnerships demonstrate our ability to support retail-driven brands that demand speed, consistency, and scalability.
Key Reasons to Work With Us
- Low MOQ & Fast Turnaround
- 100pcs minimum order – Perfect for testing designs or small businesses.
- 5-10 days for sample and 15-30 days to produce – Quick delivery without compromising quality.
- Screen printing, embroidery, DTG, Rhinestone Application – Choose the best method for your logo.
- Free design support – Our team helps optimize artwork for the best results.
- Located in the heart of China’s textile hub(Guangzhou), ensuring fast material sourcing & lower costs.
- 2000+ fabric options – From organic cotton to performance blends.
- Quality You Can Trust
- Strict QC process – Every piece inspected before shipping.
- OEKO-TEX®, ISO and BSCI certificate – Safe, durable, and eco-friendly materials.
Global Shipping & Easy Communication
- Door-to-door logistics (DDP available).
- 24/7 support via WhatsApp, Email, WeChat.
Why Brands Look for Better Clothing Manufactturer
Struggling with fit inconsistency or delayed deliveries? Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. solves common apparel sourcing problems through expert tech pack translation, premium fabric matching, and dependable timelines.
| Brand Challenges | Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. Solution |
|---|---|
| Shrinking or pilling after washing | Fabric pre-wash + AQL 2.5 QC system |
| Inconsistent fit across sizes | Professional patternmakers & CAD grading |
| Basic fabric sourcing with limited finish | High-end brushed, garment-dyed, ribbed options |
| No design support for lifestyle branding | Trend-based mockups + design aid |
Sustainable Fabrics & Precision Craftsmanship
If you’re upgrading your clothing product line, we provide advanced stitching and premium fabric options like laser-bonded seams — tailored for Western body types and luxury fit.
Four-needle six-thread stitching
Provides strong, flexible seams that resist tearing and ensure long-lasting wear — ideal for high-stretch yoga movements.
Laser cutting, bonded seams
Delivers clean, precise edges and smooth finishes without irritation. Bonded seams enhance comfort and create a sleek, modern look.
Silicone / Embroidery / Heat Transfer
Multiple logo options to match your brand aesthetic. From subtle silicone prints to premium embroidery, all techniques ensure durability and style.
Naked feel, buttery-soft fabric
Ultra-soft, second-skin texture that feels weightless yet supportive. Perfect for luxury yoga collections demanding both comfort and performance.
Why Choose Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. as Your Custom Clothing Manufacturer?
39 years of experience
Founded in 1986, Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. is one of China’s leading custom clothing manufacturers. We have a deep understanding of production processes, design needs, and industry trends, enabling us to consistently deliver high-quality,innovative products.
R&D and Design
Innovation is at the heart of whatwe do. Our R&D team workstirelessly to bring market-leading products to life. Fromfabric research to garmentdesign, we stay ahead of thecurve by continuously exploringnew trends and materials.
Sustainable Production
We are committed to sustainable production and prioritize environmental protection. Our production processes minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and use environmentally friendly materials whenever possible.
Self-Owned Factory
Our factory is equipped with multiple advanced automated equipment, 12,000 skilled employees, a daily production capacity of over 100,000 pieces, 140 production lines, and fast turnaround
Small-Batch Customization
Our fully equipped factory can handle small-batch clothing orders with quick delivery,offering high flexibility. This makes us an ideal partner for startups or businesses with unique customization needs.
Complete Industrial Chain
We have a complete industrial chain from yarn to garments,which enables us to maintain strict quality control at every stage of manufacturing, shorten delivery time, while meeting customers’ specific requirements.
Tailored OEM & ODM Custom Clothing Manufacturer for your Clothing Line
Create your custom clothing line with expert manufacturing services. From design to delivery, we bring your vision to life.
Are you a new brand starting your first clothing line? Or Or are you a company that requires trustworthy apparel? Our OEM & ODM custom clothing manufacturing services are made just for you. We’re here from the very first design ideas to the final product. Whether you need casual wear, custom sports uniforms, or denim clothes, we’ll make sure your brand shines through every cloth we produce for you.
Why Choose Our OEM & ODM Clothing Services?
Our designers and manufacturing Team have years of experience in the clothing industry.
We work with you to create clothing that fits your brand’s unique look.
We use only the best fabrics for your products.
Our Process Setup is Optimized for Mass Production
Handle Customer’s Inquiry
Send us an inquiry and share more details about your projects, and our dedicated team will handle it.
Make Quotation
If your project is suitable for our standard MOQ and production, then we offer an initial quotation based on the techpack, selected fabric quality, and quantity.
Sample Development
After the customer’s approval of the quotation, we proceed with sample development to confirm quality before starting bulk production.
Bulk Production
Following order confirmation and a deposit, we initiate bulk production with all specifications carefully followed.
Quality Control
We follow strictly our QC procedures, ensuring 100% end-line inspections. We also apply AQL 2.5 for final inspections. Third-party QC is always welcome.
Packaging & Shipping
Once the quality is confirmed, the finished products are carefully packaged and shipped in bulk to your warehouse.
Benefits of Buying Direct from tank tops Manufacturers
When you buy directly from a wholesale ladies denim jeans manufacturer like Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd., you gain multiple advantages that streamline your supply chain and boost your margins.
We maintain consistency and high standards, from fabric selection and dyeing to stitching and final packaging.
The more you order, the better the pricing structure, allowing you to maximize your profitability and margin.
Ideal for brands that want unique products—control over colors, GSM, fits, and all branding elements.
In-house, modern production ensures timely delivery, cutting down the typical delays associated with third-party vendors.
Buy factory-direct to cut out unnecessary distribution costs and get the most competitive rates always.
OUR PROCESS
Choose Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. The Real Veteran for Startup Clothing Brands
Different from other clothing manufactures, Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. is committed to providing better and better services to help grow your business.
- Direct Factory, No Middle Man
- One-Stop Services, 5 Times of Quality Check
- 39 years of extensive apparel manufacturing experience
- 140 Production lines, Hundreds of Equipment
- High Customer satisfaction, High Repeat Order Rate
We sincerely invite you to be our next customer.
Certified Professional Clothing Producer
We are very proud of these certificates! They represent Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. ’s amazing achievements and accreditations. They show how much we care about quality, safety, and professionalism.
We’re proud to say that we have obtained BSCI and ISO 90001 certificates, and inspection certificates for filling materials such as down and cotton. We follow international standards throughout our production process and take responsibility for the quality of our products.
As one of China’s leading clothing manufacturers, we are pleased to be recognized by respected organizations. These certifications underscore our reliability as a trusted supplier to the global apparel industry.
Trusted Certificates：
Why Choose Us
 Independent base We have our own laboratory and can independently develop fabrics , China  Professional certification Certification: ISO 9001, ISO 14001，BSCI，GRS |  Full-equipped Full-equipped, from fiber manufacturing, yarn spinning, weaving, dyeing and processing to finished product production  Rich experience Professional, large and experienced design team, combined with the latest artificial intelligence technology |  Our Facilities 12,000 skilled employees, daily production capacity exceeds 100,000 pieces  Fashion exhibition Participated in domestic and foreign fashion weeks and exhibitions many times |
Trusted by Global Clients
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is your Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)?
We specialize in flexible production solutions to support emerging brands and growing businesses.
- For highly customised or technical garments (such as specialised denim washes or intricate embroidery), MOQ requirements may range from 200 to 300 units.
- Our standard MOQ ranges from 100 to 300 units per design, depending on fabric availability and production complexity.
- For best pricing efficiency, MOQ is typically based on 300 per style per colour.
- You can mix colors and sizes within the same style and fabric for greater flexibility.
Q2: What Services Do You Offer?
We provide full-cycle fashion support, including:
- Sourcing: Local and global raw material, fabric R&D, and procurement (trims) with cost optimization.
- Manufacturing: Custom manufacturing with quality control checkpoints.
- Design & Development: Assistance with tech packs, trend research, and collection building.
- Logistics: Shipping coordination to your warehouse or 3PL.
- Sustainability Consulting: Eco-fabric sourcing, ethical production planning.
Q3: Can I Customize My Designs Fully?
We work with both OEM (your design, our production) and ODM (our templates customized for you) models. Customization options include:
- Fabric type and color
- Fit and sizing
- Printing (screen, DTG, sublimation, embroidery)
- Accessories (zippers, buttons, cords)
- Labels, hangtags, branded packaging
Q4: What are your sustainability practices?
We’re committed to responsible manufacturing through:
- Waste reduction programs and ethical labor practices (BSCI certified)
- GOTS-certified organic cotton and recycled material options
- OEKO-TEX® certified dyes and processing
- Energy-efficient production technology
Q5: What Are Your Lead Times?
For in-stock items: ships worldwide within 3–7 days For custom orders: production lead time 15–30 days Urgent / Express Options: Available at a premium. Timing can vary depending on fabric development, approval cycles, and order complexity.
Q6: What is your production capacity?
Our facility employs 12,000 skilled employees, daily production capacity exceeds 100,000 pieces. We handle orders from 100 pieces to 50,000+ units across:
- Activewear and sportswear
- Denim and casual wear
- Children’s clothing
- Technical apparel
Q7: Where are your garments produced?
Our headquarters are based in China, where we operate our own vertically integrated factory. Our infrastructure and strategically placed worldwide manufacturing facilities allow us to offer extremely competitive pricing for fully custom clothing. offer flexible production options tailored to your needs. All manufacturing is supervised by our quality control team to ensure consistent standards.
Conclusion
Zara was originally rooted in manufacturing before becoming a retailer. For custom alternatives, Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. leads. As a partner of brands such as American Eagle Outfitters, Uniqlo, Gap, Zara, Levi’s, and Lee, contact us for tailored production.
That’s why today’s fashion brands choose trusted manufacturers like Newasia Garment Co.,Ltd. to build fast, flexible, and scalable apparel supply chains.
📩 Contact us to explore custom manufacturing solutions inspired by global fashion leaders.
Read more: Was Zara Originally a Retailer or a Manufacturer