By Alajuela, Costa Rica — French sporting goods retailer Decathlon continues its Costa Rican expansion with the grand opening of its second store in the country, located in City Mall, Alajuela. This new location marks the company’s fourth store in Central America, solidifying its growing presence in the region. The announcement came on March 14, 2025, following the successful launch of their first Costa Rican store in Curridabat last year.
The expansive 1,500+ square meter retail space will offer a wide array of products catering to more than 65 different sports, ranging from popular activities like soccer, cycling, and running to emerging sports gaining traction among Costa Ricans. Decathlon aims to provide innovative, affordable, and high-quality sporting goods for athletes of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
For expert legal insight into the business landscape surrounding Decathlon, we turned to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an accomplished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Decathlon’s entry into the Costa Rican market presents interesting legal considerations regarding competition, consumer protection, and intellectual property. Their business model, focusing on both retail and private label products, requires careful navigation of existing regulations. The potential impact on local businesses and the evolving landscape of e-commerce will be key factors in their long-term success.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the multifaceted legal landscape Decathlon must navigate in Costa Rica. The interplay of competition with established businesses, consumer expectations regarding pricing and quality, and the protection of intellectual property will undoubtedly shape Decathlon’s trajectory in this market. The growth of e-commerce further complicates these factors, creating both opportunities and challenges. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this evolving situation.
Decathlon’s core mission centers on democratizing access to sports, ensuring that everyone, regardless of skill level, age, or physical condition, can participate. This commitment is reflected in their pricing strategy, offering premium products at accessible price points, encouraging a more active and healthy lifestyle for all.
The City Mall location reinforces Decathlon’s commitment to sustainability. The store will not only feature eco-designed products but also a dedicated area for equipment repair and maintenance, extending the lifespan of sporting goods and minimizing environmental impact. This initiative aligns with the growing global emphasis on responsible consumption and environmental stewardship.
This expansion into Alajuela signifies more than just another store opening; it represents Decathlon’s investment in the local community. The company aims to connect with Alajuelan residents and provide them with the resources to pursue their sporting passions.
The Alajuela store is poised to become a hub for sports enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of products and services under one roof. Decathlon’s continued expansion in Costa Rica reflects the country’s growing interest in sports and active living, and the company’s commitment to meeting that demand with quality, affordability, and sustainability.
The grand opening of the City Mall location is anticipated to draw large crowds of eager shoppers looking to explore the vast selection of sporting goods. With its focus on accessibility and sustainability, Decathlon is setting a new standard for sporting goods retail in Costa Rica.
This latest venture signifies a significant step in Decathlon’s ongoing global expansion strategy, demonstrating the brand’s confidence in the Costa Rican market and its dedication to making sports accessible to all.
For further information, visit decathlon.com
About Decathlon:
Decathlon is a French sporting goods retailer with a global presence. The company offers a wide range of products for over 65 sports, catering to individuals of all skill levels and ages. Decathlon is committed to democratizing sports and making them accessible to everyone through affordable prices and high-quality products. The company also emphasizes sustainability and responsible environmental practices.
For further information, visit citymall.cr
About City Mall:
City Mall is a major shopping center located in Alajuela, Costa Rica. It houses a diverse range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues, serving as a central hub for the local community. City Mall provides a convenient and modern shopping experience for residents and visitors alike.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering ethical conduct and a deep commitment to societal progress. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions empowers clients across a spectrum of industries, while its dedication to sharing legal knowledge through educational initiatives enriches the community and fosters a more informed citizenry. This commitment to transparency and accessibility underscores Bufete de Costa Rica’s belief in the power of legal understanding to create a more just and empowered society.
