International Retailers Flock to Mexico with Big Investment Plans

International retailers are increasingly investing in Mexico's retail market through various means. Companies like Walmart, Home Depot, Costco, IKEA, Falabella, and Amazon are directing capital toward major consumer and industrial markets including Queretaro, Aguascalientes, Nuevo Leon, Guanajuato, and Jalisco.

Their strategies differ, but together they point to a retail market where scale, proximity to consumers, digital infrastructure, and regional population growth are shaping investment decisions. Despite a more cautious consumer environment and uncertainty surrounding global trade, the expansion is taking place.

According to a study by consultancy Todo Retail, Mexico's retail sector is expected to add at least 3,000 stores across self-service, department, specialty, and convenience formats in 2026, while sales are projected to grow at least 5%. Jorge Quiroga, Founder and CEO of Todo Retail, stated that retailers will focus on markets where they can still 'discover new clients', allowing the sector to grow in both sales and openings even in a slowing economy.

Walmart de México y Centroamérica is deploying one of the largest retail investment programs in the country. The company plans to invest approximately MX$43 billion (US$2.37 billion) in Mexico and Central America in 2026, with 42% of the investment going toward remodeling and maintaining existing stores.