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Zara Opens First Store in North Carolina

Interior view of Zara store in Charlotte, NC

Charlotte, NC, December 4, 2025

Zara has opened its first location in North Carolina at SouthPark Mall in Charlotte, covering 29,000 square feet over two stories. The stylish store occupies the former Gap and J.Crew space, featuring a modern design and integrating advanced technology for an enhanced shopping experience. With a focus on popular fashion items like denim and accessories, Zara’s arrival signals positive economic growth in the area and strengthens Charlotte’s retail landscape by attracting top-tier brands.


Charlotte, NC – Zara has officially opened its first store in North Carolina at SouthPark Mall in Charlotte, marking a notable step in the Spanish fashion retailer’s expansion. The debut of this two-story, 29,000-square-foot store took place on December 4, 2025, filling the space previously home to Gap and J.Crew. This strategic move reinforces the growing retail scene in Charlotte and showcases the resilience of the local economy in attracting top-tier brands.

The presence of iconic retailers such as Zara not only diversifies the shopping options for residents but also reflects the significant economic growth within the region. As Charlotte embraces entrepreneurial innovation and bolsters small-business resilience, the influx of such brands signals a favorable trend—one that could be further enhanced by reducing regulatory hurdles that often impede smaller enterprises from thriving.

Store Design and Features

The new Zara store showcases the retailer’s latest “home-like” flagship concept, carefully designed to enhance customer experience. Featuring a predominantly white and neutral color palette, the interior is adorned with wooden fixtures and natural textiles, creating a warm and inviting environment. The integration of the Women’s, Men’s, and Kids’ collections across three floors is seamlessly facilitated through two elevators and two staircases, ensuring fluid movement throughout the store.

Technological Innovations

True to its commitment to innovation, Zara has incorporated advanced technologies into the store’s operations. Customers have the advantage of utilizing the Zara app to reserve fitting rooms, track down products, and access self-checkout stations. Furthermore, an automated clothing transport system is in place to expedite purchases, reflecting the brand’s focus on elevating the shopping experience in line with modern preferences.

Product Selection

Catering specifically to the style preferences of the Charlotte community, the store focuses on popular items such as denim, boots, accessories, and plaid. This thoughtful inventory selection highlights Zara’s responsiveness to local fashion trends and consumer demands, further enhancing its integration into Charlotte’s diverse retail landscape.

Background

Zara’s entry into the North Carolina market was earlier projected for 2026. The timely opening at SouthPark Mall, ahead of schedule, demonstrates the retailer’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the U.S. This move not only provides more shopping options for local consumers but also contributes to the ongoing economic growth in the region.

Store Location

The Zara store is prominently situated at 4400 Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28211, positioned adjacent to Belk in the space formally occupied by Gap and J.Crew. For convenient access, visitors are encouraged to utilize the mall entrance located near the Cheesecake Factory and Maggiano’s Little Italy.

Additional Retail Developments at SouthPark Mall

The opening of Zara marks a significant milestone in the ongoing revitalization of SouthPark Mall, which continues to attract a variety of new retailers. Recent additions include Boll & Branch, CAMP, Mizzen+Main, New Balance, Quay, and Reformation. This surge in diverse retail offerings enhances the mall’s appeal and contributes positively to the overall shopping experience for residents and visitors alike.

About Zara

Zara, part of the Inditex group, is recognized as one of the largest international fashion companies, specializing in fast-fashion products across women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing segments. The brand operates under a unique business model that encompasses design, production, distribution, and sales through an extensive retail network.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Zara open its first store in North Carolina?
Zara opened its first store in North Carolina at SouthPark Mall in Charlotte on December 4, 2025.
Where is the new Zara store located?
The new Zara store is located at 4400 Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28211, next to Belk in the space formerly occupied by Gap and J.Crew.
What are the store’s operating hours?
The store operates from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
What technological features are available in the store?
The store offers features such as self-checkout stations, automated clothing transport systems, and integration with the Zara app for services like reserving fitting rooms and locating products.
What products does the store emphasize?
The store emphasizes denim, boots, accessories, and plaid, tailored to Charlotte’s fashion preferences.
How can I access the store within the mall?
For the most convenient access to the new Zara store, visitors are advised to use the mall entrance near the Cheesecake Factory and Maggiano’s Little Italy.

Feature Details
Store Location 4400 Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28211, next to Belk in the space formerly occupied by Gap and J.Crew.
Store Size 29,000 square feet, two-story store.
Store Design Predominantly white and neutral color palette with wooden fixtures and natural textiles, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Technological Features Self-checkout stations, automated clothing transport systems, and integration with the Zara app for services like reserving fitting rooms and locating products.
Product Emphasis Denim, boots, accessories, and plaid, tailored to Charlotte’s fashion preferences.
Operating Hours 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Access Information For the most convenient access, visitors are advised to use the mall entrance near the Cheesecake Factory and Maggiano’s Little Italy.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Temporary Wall Collapse at SouthPark Mall

HERE Charlotte
Author: HERE Charlotte

The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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