The office of Gov. Greg Abbott announced Sept. 16 that Ariat International, a manufacturer of apparel and footwear, will establish a new regional headquarters and distribution hub in North Fort Worth.

The new one million-square-foot distribution center is expected to open this fall, according to a statement from Denton County. The headquarters is expected to create 75 jobs and $40 million in capital investment.

"The Texas model of low taxes, reasonable regulations, and workforce investment continues to attract exceptional companies like Ariat that will ensure the Lone Star State remains a global economic powerhouse,” Abbott said in a news release. “Texas has a long and storied tradition of ranching, farming, and equestrian sports, and we are proud to build upon that legacy by welcoming Ariat to Fort Worth.”

According to the release, Ariat International is a designer and manufacturer of “high-quality performance equestrian footwear and apparel.” The company sells English and Western riding boots, work boots, and casual footwear, among other items.

“Fort Worth is excited to welcome Ariat to Texas, as the company joins our community for its latest expansion," Mayor Betsy Price said in the release. "This project represents a strong partnership between the state and local communities focused on creating new jobs and attracting new companies and relocations as we work to bolster the Texas economy.”


At the county level, the mission continues to be attracting major companies that provide a “perfect blend” of services, Denton County Judge Andy Eads said.

Eads noted the success of Fort Worth Alliance Airport and the BNSF Railway Intermodal Facility, both of which are also located in North Fort Worth and the southern portion of Denton County.

“We are grateful to all of our partners with the City of Fort Worth and the State of Texas for their collaboration in bringing Ariat International’s western regional headquarters and distribution center to our region,” Eads said. “A company of this caliber brings high-paying jobs to our region, which is part of the mission of the Texas Enterprise Fund.”

As part of an incentive package to bring Ariat International to the area, the TEF provided a grant of $750,000, the release said.