Pictured is the Kwik Lok headquarters in Yakima, WA, in the 1950s. Kwik Lok was founded in 1954 by Floyd Paxton. PHOTO COURTESY KWIK LOK

Kwik Lok was founded in 1954 in Yakima, WA, by Floyd Paxton, an engineer who saw that packaging technologies were changing post-World War II. In that first year, its unique closure system quickly became the preferred method for keeping bags of apples safe and fresh.

Today, Kwik Lok is a third-generation, family-owned business and a leader in bag closure solutions. The company has grown by listening to customer needs and pushing the boundaries of what a closure company can achieve. Today, Kwik Lok products are used worldwide across a wide range of industries, including bakeries and produce, serving millions daily.

Kwik Lok Founder Floyd Paxton is pictured with his son, Jerry, second-generation owner and father of the current co-owners, Stephanie Paxton-Jackson, Kimberly Paxton-Hagner and Melissa Paxton-Steiner. PHOTO COURTESY KWIK LOK

Currently women-owned by third-generation sisters, Stephanie Paxton-Jackson, Kimberly Paxton-Hagner and Melissa Paxton-Steiner, Kwik Lok continues to carry forward the values and vision that have defined its success.

Today, Kwik Lok is women-owned by third-generation sisters, Stephanie Paxton-Jackson, Kimberly Paxton-Hagner and Melissa Paxton-Steiner, pictured here in the late 1970s. PHOTO COURTESY KWIK LOK

“Our growth has come from a willingness to innovate, to take risks, and to put our customers first at every turn,” says Paxton-Hagner, board chair at Kwik Lok. “The past 70 years have shown us the value of bold moves — from developing new closure technology to enhancing customer experiences in ways that improve their lives. My sisters and I are committed to continuing this momentum and to making Kwik Lok the best partner our customers can have.”

Over the past seven decades, Kwik Lok has introduced groundbreaking products that have redefined bag closures, starting with the original Kwik Lok closure. Each innovation emerged from a commitment to helping customers find the most effective and reliable solutions. The company continues to invest heavily in research and development, ensuring its products meet the changing needs of its customers.

Kwik Lok’s commitment to people extends to the planet. As part of its dedication to sustainability, Kwik Lok has introduced sustainable closures and implemented initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The company is continually investing in materials, science and global partnerships to create products that lessen the impact on the environment, all while maintaining the reliability that Kwik Lok is known for.

Looking to the future, Kwik Lok remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering high-quality, customer-focused solutions that drive positive change. The company is excited to continue its legacy of innovation and reliability for the fourth generation and beyond, aiming to be the best solution for its customers.

1 of 16 article in Produce Business February 2025