1) Porter's five forces analysis finds the global apparel industry has medium threat of new entrants due to modest growth and low capital requirements, but high bargaining power of customers and suppliers who face few switching costs. Rivalry is also high due to frequent price changes and ease of switching brands.
2) Zara's value chain emphasizes rapid design, production, and distribution through internal suppliers and owned factories. New collections are delivered to stores every two weeks to quickly reflect changing fashion trends. Marketing relies on brand reputation and store displays rather than advertising.
3) Zara's infrastructure allows for fast global coordination between managers, designers, and suppliers. Over half of its 60,000 young, female workforce is based