JAVIER ARZÚ - DIRECTOR FUTECA CORPORATION

What is your opinion, Mr. Arzú, regarding the multidisciplinary business sector in Guatemala, and what do you think should be done to further strengthen it in the coming years?

The business sector in Guatemala is robust and professional across all its areas: industrial, agricultural, and construction. Guatemala has significant growth potential. With strategic investments in infrastructure and connectivity, we could accelerate national development and fully leverage the country's productive capacity.

Today, logistical problems generate additional costs and reduce competitiveness. With modern infrastructure, Guatemala could achieve a much greater level of expansion, given that we have leading companies in various sectors.

Tell us more about the history of FUTECA CORPORACIÓN. Mr. Arzú, what do you consider to be the greatest achievements, awards, and recognitions to date?

Futeca was founded 37 years ago, on December 11, 1988, with the mission of combining sports, entertainment, and well-being. Since then, we have been dedicated to generating health and quality of life through projects that include gyms, bowling alleys, sports academies, and service-oriented shopping centers.

The strategy has been to bring sports and services closer to the communities, locating ourselves in areas where families live and work. One example is Distrito Futeca , which integrates a shopping and services center with sports facilities in areas with high population density but limited recreational infrastructure.

Today, Futeca Corporación has over 1,200 employees and welcomes more than 5 million visitors annually to its various locations. We have established ourselves as a leading business, innovating in projects that extend beyond sports to encompass entertainment and services that enrich people's lives.

Mr. Arzú, what distinguishes you from other companies in the sector in Guatemala and the region?

Futeca distinguishes itself by offering comprehensive projects that not only meet high quality standards but also generate a positive social impact. Our strength lies in innovation, sustainability, and community engagement—values that have allowed us to consolidate our leadership in sports, entertainment, and services.

What is your vision for FUTECA CORPORACIÓN in the next 5 years?

Our vision is focused on a large-scale, multifunctional project that will transform the entertainment landscape in Guatemala. It's a complex with the capacity to host from 5,000 to 35,000 people for sporting, cultural, and entertainment events.

The project will include convention halls for up to 3,000 people, auditoriums, FIFA-sized courts, and spaces for international concerts and shows.

This will attract world-class artists and international competitions, expanding the entertainment offerings in the country and strengthening Guatemala's image as a world-class destination.

Mr. Arzú, what do you consider to be your main contribution to the development of the sector and the country in general? Do you have CSR programs?

One of our most important contributions is athletic development through academies. We have provided scholarships to numerous young soccer players, several of whom have gone on to play for the National Team thanks to educational and athletic opportunities at universities in the United States.

In addition, our 32 sports academies promote discipline, health and well-being among children and young people, contributing to the formation of responsible and committed citizens.

We believe that investing in youth is investing in the future of the country.

TOPIC 2: BILATERAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THE UNITED STATES

What is the relevance of the United States to FUTECA CORPORACIÓN? Would they be willing to form more strategic alliances for the company?

Absolutely. We're already in talks with US companies like Live Nation , leaders in organizing sporting events and shows, who are interested in our project. International visitors have even acknowledged that our facilities surpass some of the most prestigious ones abroad in quality.

The goal is for this project to operate 365 days a year, adapting to all kinds of events and becoming a space for Guatemalans and attracting international tourism. As we say at Futeca: “It’s a project with a Guatemalan stamp, but created to transcend borders.”

Before we move on to the last question, we would like to learn more about your personal and professional background.

I studied Business Administration and have always been passionate about creating innovative projects. My motivation stems from generating social benefits through initiatives that transform communities.

With Futeca, we've seen how sport becomes a tool for change; young people on scholarships at our academies have reached the National Team, and others have studied at universities in the United States. We believe in health, well-being, and discipline as pillars for building a stronger society.

Final message for the most influential readers of LA Times: Why come to invest and get to know Guatemala?

Guatemala maintains a fairly stable and constantly evolving economy with ample opportunities for responsible investment. Its people are hardworking, talented, and hospitable. At Futeca, we invite you to invest in innovative projects that not only generate profits but also a positive impact on society. We are convinced that Guatemala is ready to showcase world-class projects to the world.