Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, born on October 20, 1957, in Houston, Texas, is a highly successful businessman and entrepreneur, best known as the co-founder and CEO of Buc-ee’s, a chain of convenience stores and gas stations that has become a beloved destination for travelers across the United States. With a net worth estimated to be over $300 million, Aplin has built an empire that is synonymous with customer service excellence, clean restrooms, and a wide array of snacks and merchandise.
Aplin’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to family businesses have been the driving forces behind his success, which has extended far beyond convenience stores to include construction, real estate, and other business ventures.
Personal Info:
- Full Name: Arch “Beaver” Aplin III
- Date of Birth: October 20, 1957
- Place of Birth: Houston, Texas, USA
- Age: 66 years old (as of 2024)
- Education: Bachelor of Construction Science from Texas A&M University (1980)
- Occupation: Businessman, Entrepreneur
- Net Worth: $300 million (as of 2024)
- Famous For: Co-founding Buc-ee’s, a chain of convenience stores and gas stations
- Spouse: Katherine Aplin
- Children: Two daughters, Hart and Lauren
- Notable Ventures: Buc-ee’s, construction business, real estate developments
- Philanthropy: Donated $50 million to Texas A&M University in 2022 to establish the Aplin Center for Hospitality Entrepreneurship
- Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, conservation efforts
Early Life and Education
Born into a family of entrepreneurs, Arch Aplin III grew up with a deep understanding of what it takes to run a successful business. His father and grandfather were both influential businessmen, and Aplin was exposed to the world of business from a young age. He developed a strong work ethic and a passion for entrepreneurship, which would later serve him well.
After completing high school, Aplin attended Texas A&M University, where he earned a Bachelor of Construction Science degree in 1980. His academic background in construction provided him with the knowledge and skills necessary to start his own business ventures, including building the first Buc-ee’s store, which marked the beginning of his journey to becoming a business mogul.
The Birth of Buc-ee’s: Building an Empire
In 1982, Arch Aplin III and his business partner, Don Wasek, opened the first Buc-ee’s store in Lake Jackson, Texas. What began as a small convenience store soon grew into a massive chain known for its large-scale locations, often featuring dozens of fuel pumps, clean facilities, and a vast selection of snacks, beverages, and merchandise. Buc-ee’s became particularly famous for its impeccable restrooms, which set a new standard for cleanliness in the convenience store industry.
Buc-ee’s stores range in size from 10,000 to 70,000 square feet, with some locations offering an array of products that go far beyond typical convenience store offerings, including home goods, apparel, and locally sourced foods. The company’s focus on customer service, competitive pricing, and quality products has earned it a loyal following, and Buc-ee’s has become a must-stop destination for travelers.
With over 40 locations across Texas, Alabama, and Georgia, Buc-ee’s has solidified itself as one of the most successful convenience store chains in the United States. As the company expands into new markets, Aplin’s vision for Buc-ee’s continues to drive its success.
Expanding Beyond Buc-ee’s: Other Business Ventures
While Buc-ee’s is undoubtedly Aplin’s most well-known venture, his business interests extend beyond the convenience store industry. Before founding Buc-ee’s, Aplin used his construction science degree to start a successful construction business. This company played a key role in building many of Buc-ee’s stores, and Aplin has also utilized his construction expertise to develop unused properties.
Aplin has also pursued ambitious real estate ventures, such as his proposal to convert the World Golf Village in Florida into a Buc-ee’s location with 104 gasoline pumps and a Texas-sized retail space. Although the project faced opposition from local residents, it demonstrates Aplin’s bold approach to expanding his business empire.
Philanthropy and Contributions to Education
In addition to his business accomplishments, Arch Aplin III is a dedicated philanthropist who has made significant contributions to education and his community. In 2022, Aplin donated $50 million to Texas A&M University, his alma mater, to establish the Aplin Center, an academic center for hospitality entrepreneurship. This generous donation reflects Aplin’s commitment to giving back and fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Personal Life and Hobbies
Arch Aplin III is married to Katherine Aplin, and together they have two daughters, Hart and Lauren. Aplin is known for his love of hunting and fishing, and he has been actively involved in conservation efforts throughout Texas.
Net Worth and Future Growth
As of 2024, Arch Aplin III’s net worth is estimated to be over $300 million. His wealth is primarily derived from his successful businesses, particularly Buc-ee’s, which continues to grow in popularity and expand into new markets. Buc-ee’s revenue was estimated at $1.5 billion in 2019, and the company’s continued success suggests that Aplin’s net worth will keep increasing in the years to come.
With a proven track record of success, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to quality, Arch Aplin III has made a lasting impact on the convenience store industry. His leadership and vision continue to shape the future of Buc-ee’s and his other ventures.
