Business
Clothing giant Zara’s new security tech made shoplifting easy; retailer denies claims
[ad_1]
Inditex SA is racing to iron bugs out of a new anti-shoplifting system for its Zara stores, slightly delaying its rollout partly because the security tags were easy to identify and remove in initial tests, according to people familiar with the matter.
Chief Executive Officer Oscar García Maceiras unveiled the new technology in March and pledged to roll it out for tests in all Zara stores worldwide over the summer. The system relies on tiny chips known as RFID, doing away with the hard plastic tags on garments that require checkout clerks to remove them.
The new technology has run into teething issues. Staff in several countries have raised concerns to management that the technology may actually make theft easier, according to the people, who asked not to be identified.
The problems come as retailers need to boost their defenses against an increase in shoplifting. The British Retail Consortium recently found that incidents of store theft increased by 27% last year across the UK’s 10 largest cities amid the surge in inflation. Primark is adding security guards and cameras to counter the phenomenon, the discount retailer said Tuesday.
Inditex had said it would get the technology into all its shops for testing by July, and that has yet to happen. The plan was that the chain would test the system over the autumn-winter season. Delays are in part due to supply bottlenecks, according to several of the people. The retailer downplayed the issues.
“The in-store implementation process of the new soft-alarm system, which uses several technologies, is going according to plan, without any significant incidents,” Inditex said. The retailer added that the new system hasn’t resulted in any detectable change in garment theft.
The new method, in which the tiny chips are placed on labels or inside the clothing fabric, is a key part of Inditex’s strategy to seek all the synergies it can between its e-commerce business and its brick-and-mortar store network.
Inditex’s new security system is supposed to reduce theft by 60%, according to a report by Bank of America that cited Associated Security.
Shares of Inditex were little changed in Madrid trading Tuesday. The stock has gained 45% this year as the retailer has been reporting its gross margin at record levels. Inditex is expected to report an increase of about 28% in first-half operating profit when it reports Wednesday.
Hard security tags, which require extremely strong magnets to remove, will eventually become obsolete, according to Arkansas-based retail strategist Carol Spieckerman. Still, retailers have yet to come up with a system that can fully replace them, she said.
“Theft-thwarting technology is very much in test-and-learn mode currently and everything is on the table,” she said. “Unfortunately, any solution that relies on physical tags or sewn-in chips is vulnerable to sabotage as removal techniques are discovered and promoted online.”
Inditex started testing the technology this year in some stores in Spain. Shoplifters quickly figured out how to remove the small chips, which were initially implanted into labels. Another problem is with alarms ringing when customers walked into the store to return items purchased online.
As Inditex works to integrate its online business and physical stores, it’s adding collect points for internet customers in Zara shops. Some e-commerce orders are also delivered from big shops rather than warehouses.
The new system would make those processes even more efficient, because a clerk wouldn’t need to remove the hard security tag. Plus, checkout time in brick-and-mortar shops would be reduced, and it’d become easier for Inditex to expand self-checkout.
The company said in June that it aimed to eliminate all hard tags and eventually deploy the technology across its brands.
After months of experimenting with placing tags in different places on the garment, one possible alternative is a special type of thread made of a miniature RFID tag that’s wrapped in textile yarn and sewn into garment seams, the people said.
While the new technology will add to Inditex’s rising costs, over the long-term it should help boost profit. Theft resulted in about $66 billion in lost sales for retailers in the US in 2021, according to the National Retail Federation.
Long before designer heels became a fashion staple, high heels were a status symbol reserved for the elite. In the 17th century, King Louis XIV famously strutted through Versailles in red-bottomed shoes, signaling privilege and power. Today, a different kind of style royalty is making her mark with a signature heel preference—Bella Hadid.
Known for her trendsetting style, Hadid has been spotted repeatedly embracing a particular heel trend: sleek, pointed-toe stilettos. Whether she’s attending high-profile events or walking the streets of New York, her footwear choices consistently exude sophistication and edge. From patent leather pumps to sculptural heels with a modern twist, she proves that a classic silhouette can still feel fresh and contemporary.
With Y2K nostalgia in full swing, heels reminiscent of early-2000s fashion are making a major comeback. Strappy stilettos, kitten heels, and sculptural mules are dominating runways and street style alike. Bella Hadid, always ahead of the curve, has solidified her place as a style icon by embracing these trends with effortless confidence.
Whether she’s reviving vintage-inspired heels or stepping out in avant-garde designs, one thing is clear: Bella Hadid knows how to make a statement from head to toe.
If the fashion industry has shown us anything this season, it’s that working women are redefining corporate chic. Whether it’s Aritzia’s Work Wardrobe campaign featuring model Alex Consani or Stella McCartney’s Fall/Winter 2025 show injecting new life into office attire, one thing is clear: dressing like a boss is in.
Of course, no power look is complete without the perfect work bag. From structured totes to sleek crossbodies, a fashion-forward yet functional bag is a must-have for conquering the 9-to-5 in style. Whether you’re heading to the office, commuting, or working remotely from your favorite café, these 12 editor-approved work bags will have you looking polished and put together.
- Jacquemus Turismo Bowling Bag
The Jacquemus Turismo bag has been making waves among fashion influencers—and for good reason. Inspired by the classic bowling bag, this structured yet stylish piece is crafted from grained calfskin leather, making it both durable and chic.
Dimensions: Height: 6.3 inches; Width: 9.8 inches; Depth: 4.3 inches
Colors: Black, Green
Material: Grained Calfskin Leather
- Ferragamo Hug Bag
The Ferragamo Hug Bag is a favorite among minimalists. With its sleek curved silhouette and understated elegance, this bag transitions seamlessly from boardroom meetings to after-work drinks.
- Tory Burch Romy Tote
A classic tote with a modern twist, the Tory Burch Romy Tote is spacious, structured, and endlessly versatile. Designed for professionals on the go, it fits a laptop, planner, and daily essentials with ease.
- Prada Galleria Bag
If you’re looking to invest in timeless elegance, the Prada Galleria Bag is a luxury staple that never goes out of style. With its iconic silhouette, saffiano leather, and multiple compartments, it’s both practical and polished.
- Cuyana System Tote
For those who value functionality and sustainability, the Cuyana System Tote is a minimalist dream. Made from Italian leather and featuring modular compartments, this tote adapts to your workday needs.
- Saint Laurent Sac de Jour
The Saint Laurent Sac de Jour is structured, sophisticated, and effortlessly chic. It’s the ultimate power bag, perfect for making a statement at client meetings and business lunches.
- Mansur Gavriel Soft Lady Bag
For a softer take on office style, the Mansur Gavriel Soft Lady Bag offers a slouchy yet structured look. Made from buttery Italian leather, this bag pairs well with both tailored suits and relaxed separates.
- Bottega Veneta Arco Tote
The Bottega Veneta Arco Tote blends craftsmanship with contemporary design. Featuring the brand’s signature intrecciato weave, this bag is an artful yet practical choice for the modern professional.
- Telfar Large Shopping Bag
Dubbed the “Bushwick Birkin,” the Telfar Large Shopping Bag is a cult-favorite tote that’s both stylish and functional. With plenty of room for daily essentials, it’s a great pick for those who want a trendy yet practical work bag.
- Senreve Maestra Bag
The Senreve Maestra Bag is a convertible carryall that can be worn as a handbag, shoulder bag, crossbody, or backpack. Made from scratch-resistant Italian leather, it’s perfect for commuters and multitaskers.
- DeMellier Vancouver Bag
For those who appreciate understated luxury, the DeMellier Vancouver Bag offers a timeless silhouette with a modern touch. Handcrafted in sustainable leather, this bag is both eco-friendly and elegant.
- Strathberry Midi Tote
The Strathberry Midi Tote is a celebrity favorite, known for its structured design and signature bar closure. With its sleek aesthetic and ample storage space, it’s a stylish addition to any work wardrobe.
Sarah Burton has officially redefined Givenchy. In her Fall 2025 debut at Paris Fashion Week, the former Alexander McQueen creative director brought a feminine perspective to the legendary house, embracing strength, vulnerability, and emotional intelligence. This moment felt significant—not only because of Burton’s storied past but also because so few women currently helm major luxury brands.
A Tribute to Givenchy’s Heritage
Burton’s inspiration came from Hubert de Givenchy’s 1952 debut collection, known for its clean, graphic silhouettes. A recent discovery of the maison’s archival calico patterns further fueled her vision, leading to designs that balanced wearable ease with dramatic, couture-like elements.
The show opened with a black fishnet catsuit, a bold reset before transitioning into the essence of Burton’s Givenchy—a collection that honored the past while embracing modern femininity.
Key Looks & Defining Elements
Oversized Suits with Cinched Waists → A powerful balance of structure and fluidity.
Sleeveless Dresses with Ruffled Hemlines → Adding movement and drama to everyday elegance.
Cocoon-Like Coats & Jackets → Featuring rounded, puffed-up shoulders, nodding to Givenchy’s classic volume play.
Body-Diverse Runway Casting → One of the few Paris shows this season to feature a range of body types, reinforcing Burton’s commitment to dressing real women.
A New Vision for Modern Women
Burton’s Givenchy is about more than just clothes—it’s about how women want to feel: powerful, sexy, vulnerable, and strong, all at once. Her debut collection wasn’t just a runway success—it was a statement on the future of fashion, where femininity is both celebrated and redefined.
-
Featured1 year agoOnline Threats for Jewish Students in Cornell University – Flaunt Post
-
Featured2 years agoSupreme Court Delays Verdict in Manish Sisodia’s Corruption Case, Legal Battle Continues – Flaunt Post
-
Entertainment10 months agoSamantha Gabronino, Katwalk Doll Queen, Wins Miss Freedom of the World Grand Prix Title
-
Featured12 months agoSerena Novikov: Modeling Success in the Digital World
-
Sports2 years agoWATCH: Virat Kohli Shakes A Leg On ‘Lungi Dance’ Song During India Vs Sri Lanka Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 Match
-
Featured1 year agoED’s “Red Rose” in Rajasthan: Political Turmoil Ahead of Assembly Elections – Flaunt Post
-
Featured1 year agoPDA Takes Center Stage: Akhilesh Yadav Hints at Independent Path Amidst Alliance Uncertainty – Flaunt Post
-
Entertainment5 months agoBillie Eilish: Redefining Music, Fashion, and Activism for a New Generation