How a shoe-focused startup became Europe's largest online fashion retailer
In short: Founded in 2008, Zalando began with a simple specialty in footwear. Today, the Berlin-based giant serves 62 million active users across 30 European markets, evolving from a niche shop into a massive digital mall that even acquires its competitors.
The company's origins are rooted in the Spanish word for shoes, 'zapatos'. Founded by Robert Gentz and David Schneider, with investment from the Samwer brothers, the startup was inspired by the American retailer Zappos. While it initially focused on footwear, a rapid expansion strategy saw it enter the Netherlands and France in 2010, followed by the UK, Italy, and Switzerland in 2011.
By 2013, Zalando underwent a structural transformation, emulating the digital platform models seen in China. It shifted from a simple retailer to a digital shopping mall, launching a Partner Program that allows fashion houses to sell directly through its platform. This evolution helped the company achieve profitability in 2014, after years of accumulating losses.
The company's scale is immense, with 2025 revenues reaching €12.3 billion and a workforce of approximately 16,500 people. Its growth has been marked by significant moves, such as the acquisition of About You, which was finalized in November 2025. However, this expansion has not been without controversy. Investigative reports by ZDF and RTL have highlighted intense pressure in logistics centers, including allegations of extreme walking distances for workers and strict surveillance.
As Zalando continues to grow, it faces complex challenges. While it has made progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, its 2023 sustainability report noted failures in phasing out single-use plastics and meeting targets for recycled fabric use. The company remains a dominant force in the European market, aiming for a long-term share of over 10% of the continent's €450 billion fashion industry.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Zalando
- Also: Wikidata — Zalando · CC0
- Also: Wikidata — Zalando заявила об увеличении выручки в минувшем квартале · CC0
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