Zalando is combining its models for partners and is discontinuing its Connected Retail program in this context.
The Berlin online retailer confirmed this step at the request of FashionUnited. The specialist medium Schuhkurier had already reported on it. Accordingly, the connected retail technology is to be discontinued on June 30, 2027.
The company said in a statement obtained by FashionUnited that it wants to offer its partners “a holistic experience” and access to its “most advanced technologies.” The partner models would therefore be consolidated and retailers and brands that are currently connected to Zalando via the Connected Retail program are invited to switch to the other program.
“We’re not saying goodbye to brick-and-mortar stores, we’re simply updating the technology they use to connect to us. This move streamlines operations, provides improved data insights and allows partners to continue fulfilling orders directly from their stores while allowing them to scale their business across our 27 European markets,” it said from Berlin.
Zalando adjusts fees
As part of this, the fee structure will also be adjusted so that the same standard marketplace service fees apply to all partners from September 2026. To support partners in this change, Zalando is offering retailers a fee reduction of two percentage points until the end of 2027. In addition, all partners who “change early” would receive an additional reduction of one percentage point for six months.
Partners who want to continue working with Zalando must agree to this consolidated fee structure by May 15th, otherwise the partnership will be “mutually terminated” by the end of August.