Ariat International is tightening the cinch on its relationship with the city where the West begins, betting big on a future rooted in shared heritage along Fort Worth’s fast-growing frontier.
Ariat, a global leader in performance western, work, and equestrian footwear and apparel, announced Wednesday that it will invest $72.6 million and create 250 new jobs as part of a two-phase expansion of its regional headquarters in Fort Worth.
The initiative strengthens the company’s long-term commitment to North Texas while deepening its roots in a city that mirrors Ariat’s heritage and fast-growing brand identity.
“Fort Worth and the state of Texas have been an incredible partner in Ariat’s growth, and we’re proud to expand our presence here,” said Beth Cross, co-founder and CEO of Ariat. “Creating 250 new jobs in the community is especially meaningful to us, and we’re committed to building opportunities that strengthen both Ariat and Fort Worth for the long term.”
In Phase One, Ariat will expand its existing regional headquarters, a move that includes $8.9 million in property improvements and equipment. This phase will create 150 new jobs in Fort Worth.
Phase Two will add a new regional distribution center a few miles away — an investment of $63.7 million that will support an additional 100 jobs.
Ariat’s latest commitment marks a major milestone in Fort Worth’s momentum as one of the fastest-growing commercial and logistics centers in the country.
“This expansion strengthens our city’s position as a hub for innovation, logistics, and world-class brands, while creating quality jobs and opportunities for our residents,” Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker said in a statement.
Ariat already operates a strong footprint in the city. The company opened its regional headquarters and 1 million-square-foot distribution center in 2020, followed by the launch of a brand shop in Mule Alley at the Fort Worth Stockyards in early 2022.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott used the opportunity to boast of the state’s fertile ground for business and investment, declaring that Ariat’s decision “showcases the strength of our state’s economy … with a skilled and growing workforce and the best business climate in America.”
The governor’s office also announced that Ariat has been provided a grant of $1.5 million from the Texas Enterprise Fund.
Fort Worth, meanwhile, continues to draw national attention for its economic momentum. Among large U.S. cities, it ranks as the fifth-best for economic growth — driven by strong performance in education and international trade, according to a study from Coworking Cafe.
The report also placed Fort Worth ahead of Dallas, which landed at No. 15.
Ariat’s product lineup stretches well beyond its signature boots. The company offers everything from square-toe slippers and colorful Western styles to work shoes built for durability. Its apparel selection is equally broad, with jackets, shirts, hoodies, and jeans available for men, women, and children. And true to its equestrian roots, Ariat also produces riding boots and show coats.
“We are happy to welcome Ariat International to an even deeper relationship with Fort Worth,” said Robert Allen, president and CEO of the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership. “As a leader in equestrian sports brand products, Ariat is the perfect match for Fort Worth.”