Inditex Returns API: Scalable Architecture for a Global Retail Ecosystem
Inditex, the world’s largest fast-fashion retailer with more than 7,200 stores across 93 markets, is in the process of transforming its global architecture. The company is migrating from a traditional microservices approach to an API-First model supported by event-driven communication.
This shift aims to overcome performance issues, scalability limitations, and system fragmentation. With operations spanning flagship brands such as Zara, Bershka, Pull&Bear, Massimo Dutti, Oysho, and Stradivarius, the need for a robust, standardized and globally scalable system has become essential to support both current and future digital demands.
The main challenge was to design a Returns API capable of handling the entire lifecycle of returns within one of the most demanding retail environments in the world. The system had to solve existing performance issues, introduce new capabilities, scale from small to large markets, and remain extensible across all Inditex brands, not just Zara. Additionally, the solution needed to support worldwide operations, ensure real-time event processing, integrate with logistics and warehouse systems, and manage customer workflows from return initiation to stock restoration and refunds.
Modernizing Inditex Through an API-First, Event-Driven Architecture
Inditex is undergoing a major architectural transition, moving from a traditional microservices ecosystem to an API-First approach built on event-driven communication. This shift aims to overcome existing performance limitations and support the company’s global scale. We collaborated on developing a new Returns API that centralizes and streamlines the entire returns lifecycle for Zara, while staying flexible enough to be extended to other Inditex brands.
This new API manages key return stages: from the moment the user expresses the intention to return an item, to warehouse or store evaluation, stock reintegration, refunds, and invoicing. The project required a robust, scalable and globally deployable foundation capable of supporting Inditex operations in markets of all sizes.
To address Inditex’s performance challenges, we focused on designing a high-availability solution based on event-driven flows. The new Returns API introduces enhanced capabilities across customer care, logistics, warehouse workflows and stock management, creating a unified mechanism for all return operations.
The migration strategy included extensive alignment with global teams, ensuring the solution could scale from the smallest markets to the largest ones. We also ensured the new system would serve as a foundation for future Inditex projects beyond Zara, supporting the company’s multi-brand ecosystem.
Technologies Used
Technologies used: Atlassian Suite (Jira & Confluence), Office 360, Teams, Git.
Results
- A new Returns API capable of managing the complete return lifecycle across Zara and extendable to all Inditex brands
- Performance improvements and elimination of limitations affecting the previous architecture
- Worldwide deployment, adaptable to both small markets and large high-demand regions
- Improved scalability and support for global operational needs
- Ongoing collaboration with Inditex, expanding our development teams into new strategic projects
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