Inditex, one of the world’s largest and most influential fashion retailers, began its journey in a small workshop in 1963. Today, it operates a vast global network with over 7,000 stores in 96 markets and online sales in 202 markets. The group includes globally recognized brands such as Zara, Pull & Bear, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Stradivarius, Oysho, Zara Home, and Uterqüe.
To maintain its commitment to ethical, sustainable, and responsible business practices, Inditex has implemented a strict Code of Conduct for Manufacturers and Suppliers. This code outlines clear expectations regarding labor standards, human rights, and environmental responsibility.
What is the INDITEX Certification?
The Inditex Certificate (commonly referred to as the Zara Inditex Certificate) is awarded to manufacturers and suppliers who successfully pass the Inditex social compliance audit. It signifies compliance with the ethical and operational standards required to supply products for any of Inditex’s 8 brands.
Audits may be conducted directly by Inditex-authorized auditors or independent third-party firms. Certification is mandatory for businesses seeking to become part of Inditex’s global supply chain.
Core Principles of the INDITEX Code of Conduct
The Inditex Code of Conduct is based on international labor laws and prioritizes safe, fair, and legal working conditions. Key standards include:
- Prohibition of Forced or Compulsory Labor
- No Child Labor (Strictly prohibits employment under the age of 16)
- No Discrimination of any kind
- Freedom of Association and Right to Collective Bargaining
- No Harsh or Inhumane Treatment
- Safe and Hygienic Working Conditions
- Timely and Fair Wage Payments
- Legal Working Hours
- Stable Employment Relationships
- Full Traceability of Production Processes
- Product Health and Safety Assurance
- Confidentiality and Data Protection
- Environmental Protection and Awareness
Inditex Audit Requirements – Key Focus Areas
To successfully complete an Inditex audit, companies must demonstrate full compliance in several critical operational areas:
- No child labor: All employees must be at least 16 years old.
- Legal employment status: Foreign nationals must possess valid work and residence permits.
- Fair wages: All wages must meet or exceed the legal minimum wage.
- Legal compliance: No outstanding tax or social security debts are permitted.
- Process integrity: No subcontracting of Inditex production processes to unauthorized facilities.
- Transparency: Payroll and payment records must be accurate and auditable.
Documents Required for the INDITEX Audit
1. Personnel & Payroll Records
- Employee attendance logs
- Payroll documentation
- Social security declarations
- Monthly account statements
2. Occupational Health & Safety Records
- Facility layout and emergency evacuation plans
- Business licenses and operating permits
- Fire safety reports, fire extinguisher certifications, and fire cabinet records
- Building licenses and use permits
QIS INDITEX Consultancy Services
At QIS, we offer expert consultancy to prepare your business for Inditex social compliance audits. We help you understand audit expectations, close compliance gaps, and create the documentation required to ensure a successful outcome.
Our services include:
- Gap Analysis: Assessment of current practices and documentation
- Document Preparation: Creation and organization of all necessary records
- Training: Awareness programs for employees and managers on Inditex compliance
- Mock Audits: Simulated audits to identify and correct weaknesses
- Ongoing Support: Assistance with implementation and corrective action planning
We aim to ensure that your facility is fully compliant with the rigorous standards of the Inditex supply chain and ready for successful certification.
📞 Contact QIS Today
Whether you’re producing for Zara or any other Inditex brand, our expert team is here to support your journey toward compliance and certification. Get in touch to schedule your pre-audit consultation.