Leading apparel and footwear brand announces $72.6 million expansion that will create 250 new jobs as part of two-phase growth plan
Fort Worth, Texas (Dec. 3, 2025) – Ariat International, the leader in performance western, work and equestrian footwear and apparel, announced today that it will invest $72.6 million and create 250 jobs as part of an expansion of its regional headquarters in Fort Worth.
This new investment reflects a natural alignment between Ariat’s rapidly growing brand and Fort Worth’s heritage and culture, making it an ideal partnership for long-term success.
“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 with this investment. 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,” said Beth Cross, Co-founder and CEO of Ariat International.
The expansion will occur over the course of two phases. In the first phase, Ariat will expand the company’s existing regional headquarters in Fort Worth, resulting in an $8.9 million investment in property improvements and equipment and the creation of 150 new jobs. The second phase will include the construction of a new regional distribution center a few miles away, which will be an investment of $63.7 million in property and equipment and create 100 new jobs for Fort Worth.
Ariat has a strong presence in Fort Worth. In 2020, the company established its regional headquarters and 1-million square-foot distribution center. In early 2022, Ariat opened a brand shop located in Mule Alley at the Fort Worth Stockyards.
QUOTES:
“Texas is the land of economic freedom and opportunity. That’s why Texas is the No. 1 state in the nation for attracting new business investment and creating good-paying jobs. With Ariat’s $8.9 million expansion of their regional headquarters in Fort Worth, this significant investment brings 150 new jobs for hardworking Texans in North Texas and showcases the strength of our state’s economy. With a skilled and growing workforce and the best business climate in America, Texas is where businesses innovate and people thrive.”
– Governor Greg Abbott, Texas
“Fort Worth is proud to welcome Ariat International’s continued investment in our community. 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.”
– Mattie Parker, Fort Worth Mayor
“We are happy to welcome Ariat International to an even deeper relationship with Fort Worth. As a leader in equestrian sports brand products, Ariat is the perfect match for Fort Worth.”
– Robert Allen, President & CEO, Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership
“As Ariat’s Site Selection and Business Incentives partner, Ryan is proud to continue supporting their growth in Texas and the City of Fort Worth. The State and community have consistently demonstrated a business-friendly and cooperative approach that strengthens long-term investment and drives shared economic prosperity.”
– Sharon R. Roberts, Principal and Practice Leader, Credits & Incentives Consulting, Ryan, LLC
About Ariat International, Inc.
Founded in 1993 as “The New Breed of Boot,” Ariat was the first to integrate athletic footwear technology into boots for equestrian athletes. Today, Ariat develops innovative and award-winning performance footwear and apparel for all types of demanding outdoor and work environments. The company takes its name from Secretariat, the greatest racehorse of all time.
About Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership
The Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership (Fort Worth EDP) is dedicated to positioning Fort Worth as the most vibrant and sustainable city in the U.S. We collaborate with companies, site selectors, and real estate professionals to attract and expand businesses in Fort Worth and the surrounding areas. Our mission is to unite business and civic leaders with local and state partners to achieve this vision. For additional information, please visit fortworthedp.com.
For media inquiries, please contact Kasey S. Pipes at (817) 542-3870.