Tech-driven retail returns solutions provider ZigZag has partnered with China and Vietnam DTC order specialist Portless.

The partnership, which combines sourcing, delivery and returns, aims to “empower retailers to manage returns cost-effectively in the countries where they have a brand presence and help them expand into new markets”.

Instead of the costly process of sending returned items back to their origin, retailers can now use ZigZag’s returns solution “to quickly provide returns shipping and warehouse handling within the destination countries, ready for in-country disposition, marketplace resale, donation to charities or consolidation before sending products back to their origin”. 

Orders that prove undeliverable can also be managed in-country by ZigZag.

Portless says it has disrupted the traditional ocean freight model by cutting the traditional delivery journey of goods from China and Vietnam to the consumer from 45-60+ days to only six days, “offering brands improved cash flow, increased inventory agility, and significant savings in both time and money”. 

By partnering with ZigZag, Portless “will further streamline the supply chain process for brands manufacturing in or around China and Vietnam, providing a sustainable and efficient returns management solution”. 

Matthew Jacques, director of Partnerships at ZigZag, said: “Our partnership… marks a significant step forward in providing a seamless and sustainable solution for brands expanding rapidly with a requirement to handle international returns. By using ZigZag’s global network of warehouses to keep returns within the destination country we help retailers both protect their margins and reduce the environmental impact.

“Not having to ship returns back to origin is a massive win for the retailer, consumer and planet. This collaboration allows brands to provide a smoother returns experience for their customers while maximising the value of returned goods.”

Zev Spiro, Director of Partnerships at Portless, added: “Together, we’re not just improving the supply chain — we’re redefining what it means to be a truly global and sustainable brand. To celebrate this collaboration, brands introduced to Portless through ZigZag, or those who mention this partnership during onboarding, will receive exclusive value-added benefits designed to enhance their fulfilment and returns processes.”