TAPCO was started 53 years ago in the Bergholz families' Wauwatosa basement. At that time Ray Bergholz astutely realized the major role the auto would play in the American lifestyle. Identifying a need within the auto market, Mr. Bergholz started the business by selling stop signs and signals.


Since the early days when Mr. Bergholz and family were the only employees, the business has grown to nine divisions with 120 empolyees across the country.


 In 1988 the business was taken over by son Rick Bergholz and John Kugel. John oversees the sign division and Rick focuses on acquisitions.


In 2004-2005 sons Andrew Bergholz and Jason Kugel joined the business. Andrew started TAPCO Federal the division that bids for and receives federal contracts. Jason manages the solar solutions division that provides such products as solar powered blinker signs. With their innovation, TAPCO has become a global business with a bright future.