APTCO History

In 1996 APTCO,LLC was created when two table grape growers decided to start their own EPS grape box company. Joe Slapnik designed the equipment, layout and processes of the new plant in McFarland, CA. This was Joe Slapnik’s third table grape box plant design. Production began in spring 1997. Joe Slapnik retired shortly after construction was completed.

For several years, most of the production went to the two owners from the beginning. Quality was (and is) the highest priority for Aptco.

The table grape box is almost unique in EPS packaging because not only does it protect the contents but it holds up the boxes above it. The bottom box in the picture on the left must hold up to 1000 pounds load.

In 2006 APTCO began to diversify by making wine packaging. In 2008 APTCO began making construction products such as Insulating Concrete Forms. APTCO is proud to help solve environmental problems by offering construction products in California for LEED certification.

APTCO,LLC is also proud of its safety record. From 1998 until now APTCO,LLC has been above industry average for safety.

Jim Banuelos, General Manager, built APTCO (1996) after fourteen years at Agricel, Inc, another grape box molder in Delano, CA. Jim has a total of 30 years experience in the EPS industry. Jim and Joe Slapnik worked together at Agricel and teamed up together again for the construction of APTCO.

Scott Hakl, Plant Operations Manager, has been with APTCO since 1997. Scott has 25 years experience in the EPS industry. Scott has also worked for three years at a plastic injection molder and extruder. Prior to that Scott was in the oil drilling industry.