Amancio Ortega, the billionaire visionary behind the Zara fashion empire, is slated to receive a record-breaking €3.23bn (£2.8bn) dividend this year. As the majority shareholder with a 59% stake in Inditex, Ortega’s payout follows a year of “robust operating performance” for the world’s largest fashion retailer. The dividend, which marks a 4% increase from the previous year, will be distributed in two equal installments in May and November 2026.
The staggering payout comes as Inditex reported a 3.2% increase in annual sales, reaching €39.9bn for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2026. Despite closing over 100 smaller locations, the company strategically expanded into larger “flagship” outlets, effectively increasing its total global selling space. Pre-tax profits for the group, which also owns brands like Massimo Dutti and Bershka, climbed 5.8% to reach a total of €8bn.
Ortega, who is currently ranked as the 15th richest person globally with a net worth of approximately $126.7bn, founded Zara in 1975 in northern Spain. Even as he approaches his 90th birthday, he remains an active presence at the company’s headquarters in La Coruña. The business is now chaired by his daughter, Marta Ortega Pérez, signaling a stable continuation of the family’s influence over the retail giant.
Historically, Ortega has reinvested his substantial dividends into a vast international real estate portfolio, acquiring landmark properties in London, New York, and Miami. Analysts note that these investments often serve a dual purpose: expanding his wealth and navigating Spain’s unique wealth tax regulations. By reinvesting income into assets deemed “economic activity” within a 12-year window, residents can maintain certain exemptions from the national levy.
Looking ahead, Inditex plans to aggressively expand its physical footprint by 5% this year while integrating cutting-edge AI technology into its online platforms. The company recently debuted an AI-based virtual-fitting system that allows shoppers to create digital avatars to preview clothing. With a strong start to the new year and plans to bring the discount brand “Lefties” to the UK, the retail powerhouse shows no signs of slowing down.