Fashion debut

What shopaholics have been anticipating with bated breath: the open doors of Spanish-based fashion chain Zara, which yesterday made its Hong Kong debut at the IFC mall in Central.

Founded in 1975 by Amancio Ortega, the fashion chain, which is part of the Inditex group, has expanded into a global phenomenon, making Mr Ortega one of Spain's richest people.

The brand, which employs 600 designers, is known for changing its designs every few days instead of once a season, with some items spending only a couple of weeks on the racks. At any one time, the brand can be shipping more than 10,000 products. The 15,000-sq-ft boutique features collections for all ages.