accessories retailer based in Arteixo, Galicia.
Founded in 1975 by
Amancio Ortega and Rosalía Mera.In 1980, the company started its international expansion through Porto, Portugal. In 1989 it entered the United States, and in 1990, France.
This international expansion was increased in the 1990s, with Mexico (1992), Greece (1994), Belgium and Sweden (1994), etc. until reaching its current presence in over 88 countries.
Zara stores are company-owned, except where local legislation forbids foreigner-owned businesses; In those cases, Zara franchises the stores.
Amancio Ortega opened the first Zara store in 1975 in a central street in downtown La Coruña, Galicia, Spain.
Ortega named his store Zorba.