OXXO to invest $17M to build 60 new stores in Tamaulipas

OXXO plans to invest more than 300 million pesos — about $17 million — to open 60 new stores across Tamaulipas, expanding the convenience chain’s footprint in one of northern Mexico’s busiest commercial regions.

The company currently operates 1,174 stores in the state and generates more than 8,900 direct jobs, according to Tamaulipas state officials. The new expansion is expected to create more than 450 additional direct jobs while strengthening local supply chains and expanding retail space for products made in Tamaulipas.

Tamaulipas Secretary of Economy Ninfa Cantú Deándar said OXXO has now surpassed 5 billion pesos — about $284 million — in total investments across the state.

“These figures reflect a solid, long-term relationship based on mutual trust, collaboration and a shared vision,” Cantú said.

Cantú said the partnership with OXXO is part of a broader economic development strategy. 

“Today, the government of Tamaulipas and OXXO are laying the foundation for a new value chain that strengthens local economies, creates opportunities and dignifies the work of hundreds of families,” she said.

Local suppliers and economic development

Tamaulipas Gov. Américo Villarreal Anaya said the company’s continued expansion reflects improved business confidence and coordination between the state government and the private sector.

The governor said state officials began working with OXXO in 2023 to address security concerns affecting operations and communities where stores are located.

He added that the expansion is expected to generate economic activity through construction, logistics, hiring, and operations, while also creating more sales opportunities for Tamaulipas-made products.

According to the governor, more than 56 micro and small producers are currently in the process of incorporating their products into OXXO stores throughout the state.

Villarreal shared the example of a local producer who initially distributed products in three OXXO stores and now sells in 833 locations.

“He now truly has a company,” the governor said. “His product was successful, consumers liked it, and the chain itself asked him to expand into more stores.”

The expansion announcement also included renewed support for the state’s “Hecho en Tamaulipas” program, particularly through the commercialization of “El Bernal” charcoal products.

State officials said the initiative aims to formalize and improve income opportunities for charcoal producers in rural communities across Tamaulipas through direct purchasing agreements, retail distribution, and branding efforts.

According to Villarreal, charcoal producers previously sold products through intermediaries for between three and four pesos per kilogram, or 7 to 9 cents per pound. Through the current program, the state purchases charcoal directly at nine pesos per kilogram, or about 20 to 23 cents per pound.

The initiative also includes forestry permits, traceability systems, formal packaging, trademark registration, and retail commercialization.

Usai Luis Sherman, OXXO regional operations manager, said the company sees its stores as more than points of sale.

“We see them as spaces that connect local producers with consumers and generate a positive impact in the communities where we operate,” Sherman said.

Employees describe career opportunities

Employees also spoke during the event about career advancement opportunities within the company.

Irene Sánchez González, a store leader in Reynosa, said she joined OXXO 18 years ago while seeking economic stability for her family.

“I wanted to give my children a better quality of life and access to education. The company opened its doors to us, giving us the opportunity to work and grow,” Sánchez said.

She said she started as a general assistant before later becoming a supervisor and eventually a store leader.

Sánchez also said the company provides educational support and training programs for workers pursuing secondary school, high school, and university studies.

“The company also hires people with disabilities and older adults. The only thing they ask is that we have the desire to work and move forward,” she said.

Wendy Martínez Cavazos, who joined OXXO in Reynosa three-and-a-half years ago, said the company provides training and advancement opportunities for employees.

“Over time we continue learning more and more. Technology keeps advancing, and the company makes the work more efficient,” Martínez said. “It is a dignified job like any other. It offers very good benefits and always thinks about the well-being of its workers.”