Who Is Arch “Beaver” Aplin III?
Arch “Beaver” Aplin III is the co-founder and leader of Buc-ee’s, a popular chain of travel centers—known for its clean restrooms, big snack aisles, and lots of gas pumps. He began the first store in 1982 in Clute, Texas, after earning a finance degree at Texas A&M University.
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How Did He Build the Buc-ee’s Brand?
Arch named the store “Buc-ee’s” from his childhood nickname “Beaver,” his dog “Buck,” and inspiration from Ipana’s cartoon mascot.
He focused on two main ideas:
- Ultra-clean bathrooms, winning awards like “Best Restroom in America.”
- A wide selection of snacks, fresh food, souvenirs, and over 80 fuel pumps.
These simple ideas turned Buc-ee’s into a must-stop place for drivers all over the southern U.S.
How Many Buc-ee’s Locations Are There Now?
As of mid-2025, there are 54 Buc-ee’s travel centers across states like Texas, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and more.
Their largest store is in Luling, Texas—with 75,000 sq ft and around 120 pumps.
What’s Arch Aplin III’s Net Worth?
Estimates vary quite a bit. Here’s a breakdown:
- Some general sites list his wealth at around $55 million.
- Other sources say he’s a billionaire, with between $1.0 and $1.3 billion.
- A few say $500–700 million.
- And one even claims $2.1 billion.
The big differences are because Buc-ee’s is privately owned, so there’s no public company data to confirm exactly how much it’s worth—and how much of that value he personally owns.
Why Are the Numbers Different?
Several factors cause the range:
- Private company: No financial reports to check.
- Other investments: Arch may have property, stocks, or other businesses.
- New stores: Each new location adds value—one source mentions new outlets and EV charging stations in partnership with Mercedes-Benz.
- How value is estimated: Some use real estate worth, future earnings, or revenue multiples.
Estimated Net Worth Today (July 2025)
Based on the most recent and reliable sources, it’s safe to say his net worth is likely between $1 billion and $1.3 billion.
This fits with Buc-ee’s fast growth: 54 sites, huge stores, and expansion into states across the U.S.
So if you hear someone say, “He’s a billionaire,” that is probably true.
Arch Aplin III’s Personal Side
- He was born in 1958, making him about 66 years old.
- He lives in Lake Jackson, Texas, with his wife (often called Emily or Joanie), and they have several children.
- His family roots in retail go back to his grandparents and father, who ran small stores and gas stations.
Conclusion
- Who: Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, Texas A&M alumnus and founder of Buc-ee’s.
- What: A chain of huge travel centers with clean bathrooms and tasty food.
- Where: 54 locations in the southern and central U.S., the largest being in Luling, Texas.
- When: Founded in 1982; major growth from 2003 (first travel center) to 2025.
- Net Worth: Likely $1–1.3 billion as of July 2025.
- Why: His success shows how smart thinking plus great service can create big wealth—while staying private and true to a simple idea.
Arch Aplin III turned a small Texas store into a national roadside empire. His net worth might surprise you—but it’s a clear sign of how big his idea became.
FAQ
Is Arch Aplin III a billionaire?
Yes. Based on recent estimates, his net worth is between $1 billion and $1.3 billion, making him a billionaire.
Why do some say he’s only $55 million?
That’s likely from older or less accurate sources that didn’t account for Buc-ee’s growth or assigned a much smaller percentage of the company to him.
How does Buc-ee’s make money?
Main revenue comes from:
- Gas and fuel sales.
- In-store sales: snacks, BBQ, jerky, groceries.
- Extras: EV charging stations, car washes, and souvenirs.
Does Arch Aplin III give to charity?
Yes, he plans to give $50 million to alma mater, Texas A&M, to start a hospitality entrepreneurship program.
Will Buc-ee’s go public?
No. Buc-ee’s says staying private lets them focus on quality and customers rather than quarterly profits.