Guanajuato Positions its Leather and Footwear Industry in the Texas Market

Guanajuato is expanding its leather and footwear industry into Texas by participating with nine local companies at The Western & English Sales Association (WESA) trade show, held at the Dallas Market Center. This venue is one of the most significant international commercial showcases for the western sector. Guanajuato’s presence strengthened the state’s export potential and opened new business opportunities for micro and small enterprises, yielding measurable results in lead generation and sales expectations.

Participation in WESA Dallas aligns with the state government’s vision, led by Governor Libia Dennise García Muñoz Ledo, to drive sustainable, inclusive economic growth with social impact. This initiative was realized through the coordinated efforts of the COFOCE and the municipality of León, specifically its Secretariat for Economic Reactivation, aiming to position Guanajuato as a global benchmark in the western segment.

WESA Dallas, the Premier Forum for the Western World

With over 100 years of history, WESA is recognized as the most important trade forum in the western world, bringing together wholesale buyers, distributors, and specialized retail chains. During the event, the Guanajuatan companies showcased cowboy boots, jackets, handbags, belts, leather goods, and jewelry, receiving significant acceptance among international buyers.

International Reach and Strategic Markets

Guanajuato’s products garnered interest from buyers originating from Texas, California, Illinois, New Jersey, Florida, Virginia, and Oregon, in addition to international markets such as Canada and Spain. This diverse origin confirms the commercial expansion potential of Guanajuatan brands in North America and Europe.

Concrete Commercial Results

As a result of the business agenda, a contact portfolio of over 30 international buyers was established, strengthening the commercial network of the participating companies. Furthermore, estimated short-term sales reached $380,000, medium-term sales $419,000, and long-term sales $533,000. This reflects sustained growth for the local industry in international markets.

Four Pillars Strengthening Competitiveness

The participation strategy was aligned with four fundamental pillars: brand strengthening for the leather-footwear, leather goods, supply, and artisan sectors; generation of market intelligence; market expansion through direct linkages; and sustainable development. This approach enabled the integration of MSMEs into the export value chain and strengthened local employment with a long-term vision.

Learning, Standards, and Continuous Improvement

Beyond commercial results, participation in WESA allowed companies to understand international quality standards, receive direct market feedback, and adapt their products to global trends. These actions enhance the competitiveness of the leather-footwear sector and prepare brands for consolidation in demanding markets.

Guanajuato Reinforces its Export Vocation

This effort reaffirms the state government’s commitment to driving the internationalization of local companies and fostering shared prosperity. Through these actions, Guanajuato strengthens its position as an exporting state, capable of taking its talent, quality, and industrial tradition beyond its borders.

###The entry first appeared in Líder Empresarial.