Salvador Oñate Ascencio: Key Players in the 2025 Economic System

(BanBajío) in 1994 with an initial team of 28 employees. Over time, the institution grew to over 4,000 collaborators before his transition on the Board of Directors.

The bank specialized in loans for SMEs, agricultural enterprises, and productive sectors. This focus positioned it among the most important Mexican banks, with over 300 branches nationwide.

In 2023, his son, Salvador Oñate Barrón, assumed the presidency of the Board, while Oñate remained as honorary lifetime chairman. This transition reinforced institutional continuity and the consolidation of the family project.

Soni Gas: The Origin of Energy Expansion

The group’s business history began in the 1970s with Soni Gas, a company dedicated to the distribution of LP Gas. The company capitalized on the lack of strong competitors and quickly positioned itself within the energy sector.

Its growth drove the subsequent diversification of the conglomerate. Furthermore, it enabled the financing of new projects that strengthened the group’s presence in the Bajío region.

Hotsson Hotels: A Brand Elevating Business Tourism

The Hotsson Hotels chain has grown steadily in strategic cities such as León, Irapuato, Silao, Querétaro, and Morelia. The hotels offer high-level services, event halls, restaurants, gyms, and amenities for executive tourism.

The brand has consolidated itself as a benchmark in hospitality within the national market. Its expansion generated jobs, attracted corporate events, and strengthened the Bajío region’s tourism offerings.

Soni Autos: The Commitment to the Automotive Sector

The group expanded its presence through Soni Autos, a network of dealerships operating in Guanajuato, Querétaro, Jalisco, and Aguascalientes. The agencies represent high-demand automotive brands and enhance mobility in the region.

This segment diversifies the group’s revenues and creates synergies with other infrastructure and service sectors.

Multisectoral Strategy: Diversification, Growth, and Vision

Salvador Oñate’s leadership rests on three pillars:

• Intelligent diversification in banking, hospitality, energy, and automotive sectors.
• Creation of value chains through sectoral synergies.
• Strengthening business financing, especially for SMEs.

His vision allowed Grupo Soni to become an economic agent with significant regional and national impact.

Direct Impact on the Economic Development of the Bajío Region

Oñate Ascencio’s role is reflected in tangible advancements:

1. Creation of Thousands of Jobs

The group’s companies have created thousands of direct and indirect jobs in the region. This boosts local economies and strengthens productive communities.

2. Financing for Entrepreneurs

BanBajío remains a driver of business financing with an impact on SMEs, agribusinesses, and strategic sectors nationwide.

3. Expansion of the Tourism Sector

Hotsson Hotels elevates the Bajío region’s tourism infrastructure and attracts events that increase economic spillover in each city.

4. Creation of Productive Chains

The group’s multisectoral presence generates linkages between industries, strengthening the competitiveness of states like Guanajuato, Querétaro, and Aguascalientes.

Recognitions That Consolidate a Solid Business Trajectory

Expansión magazine listed Salvador Oñate among Mexico’s 100 most influential business leaders. Furthermore, various media outlets and business organizations have highlighted his contributions to national economic growth.

This recognition confirms his relevance as a leader and indispensable figure within the Mexican economic system.

A Decisive Entrepreneur for the Future of the Bajío Region

Salvador Oñate Ascencio’s work drives key sectors, strengthens employment, supports SMEs, and develops infrastructure in one of the country’s most dynamic regions. His vision in banking, energy, mobility, and tourism positions him as an indispensable reference among the Key Players in the 2025 Economic System.

The post first appeared on Líder Empresarial.