Inditex has announced plans to open the world’s largest Zara store in mid-2026, as part of the ambitious Meir Corner project in Antwerp, Belgium. Positioned at the intersection of retail innovation and sustainable urban development, this landmark opening will mark a significant chapter in Zara’s global expansion and brand evolution.
A Strategic Move to Europe’s Busiest Shopping Street
Located on Meir Street—Belgium’s premier retail artery with more than 200,000 pedestrians weekly—the new flagship will reinforce Zara’s dominant retail presence in Antwerp, where the brand has operated since 1995. This move represents not just a change in location but a strategic shift toward a next-generation retail experience, aligning with Inditex’s broader vision of creating high-impact, technologically advanced macro-stores in key urban centers.
Setting a New Global Benchmark: 14,500 Square Metres of Immersive Retail
The new store will span an unprecedented 14,500 square metres across three levels, making it the largest Zara store globally. More than a retail outlet, the flagship will function as a comprehensive urban logistics hub, offering services such as:
- Seamless collection and return of online orders
- Digitally enhanced shopping experiences
- Dedicated areas for customer engagement and brand immersion
This expansion is a tangible reflection of Zara’s integrated omnichannel approach, where physical and digital retail environments converge to deliver a superior customer experience.
The Meir Corner Project: Redefining City Centers
The flagship store is a cornerstone of the Meir Corner initiative, a 43,000 square metre mixed-use development aimed at revitalizing Antwerp’s commercial core. Spearheaded by Karel de Grote University (KdG) alongside local developers Urbicoon and the Tans family, the project will combine:
- Retail on the lower levels
- A university campus for 6,000 students and 650 staff
- Green courtyards, communal areas, and public spaces
- Heritage architectural restoration of key post-war and brutalist buildings
This urban regeneration effort is poised to become a blueprint for sustainable retail development in Europe, blending commercial vibrancy with educational, residential, and community life.
A Vision for the Future of Retail and Franchising
For Zara franchise enthusiasts and retail partners, this announcement offers more than just impressive numbers—it reveals a clear direction for the future of the brand. Inditex is committed to:
- Elevating brand visibility and experience in flagship markets
- Transitioning toward high-performing macro-locations
- Leading in sustainability, technology, and urban integration
This evolution demonstrates Zara’s capability to not only meet modern consumer expectations but to lead the transformation of global retail.
Stay Informed on Zara’s Global Growth
The Antwerp flagship is a powerful reminder of Zara’s momentum and its focus on strategic, impactful expansion. For those exploring Zara franchising opportunities, initiatives like Meir Corner reflect the brand’s commitment to long-term growth and leadership in high-stakes retail environments.
Visit ZaraFranchising.com for the latest updates on Zara’s international development and how you can be part of its success story.