Zalando SE Faces Ongoing Tariff Dispute and Warnstrikes

Zalando SE, a leading German internet and catalog retail company based in Berlin, is currently embroiled in a tariff dispute that has led to multiple warnstrikes at its logistics center in Erfurt. The company, which operates globally offering a wide range of products including clothing, sports products, shoes, bags, and accessories for men, women, and children, is listed on the Xetra stock exchange.

Warnstrikes at Erfurt Logistics Center

On May 5, 2025, the trade union Verdi called for another warnstrike at Zalando’s logistics center in Erfurt. The primary aim of these warnstrikes is to bring Zalando to the negotiation table to address ongoing tariff disputes. This action is part of a series of warnstrikes that have been occurring as the union seeks to negotiate better terms for employees.

Impact on Zalando’s Operations

The warnstrikes have the potential to disrupt Zalando’s logistics operations, which are crucial for its role as Europe’s largest fashion e-commerce retailer. The repeated call for warnstrikes indicates a significant level of unrest among the workforce, which could impact the company’s ability to fulfill orders and maintain its service standards.

Financial Overview

As of May 1, 2025, Zalando’s share price closed at 32.72 EUR, with a market capitalization of 8.44 billion EUR. The company’s price-to-earnings ratio stands at 33.51. Over the past year, the share price has fluctuated, reaching a 52-week high of 39.9 EUR on February 16, 2025, and a low of 20.26 EUR on June 23, 2024.

Market Context

The broader market context shows the DAX index performing well, having surpassed the 23,000-point mark, driven by positive signals in global trade and a strong earnings season. Despite this positive market environment, Zalando’s stock has experienced some volatility, with recent reports indicating a decline amidst the ongoing tariff disputes.

Upcoming Financial Report

Investors are anticipating Zalando’s financial report for the quarter ending March 31, 2025, which is scheduled for release on May 6, 2025. Analysts predict an earnings per share (EPS) of approximately 0.092 EUR, based on the previous year’s performance.

As the situation develops, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the impact of the tariff dispute and warnstrikes on Zalando’s operational efficiency and financial health.