About Western States Oil Company
Western States Oil Company is a privately held, family-owned fuels and lubricants distributor serving California since 1956.
Founded in San Jose by Thomas A. Lopes, the company was built on firsthand industry experience, hard work, and a commitment to independence. After starting his career driving fuel trucks for Standard Oil of California and later working alongside his father in distribution, Tom recognized the opportunity to build something better. With two employees and a single 900-gallon tank truck, Western States Oil Company was born.
As California grew, so did the company. Western States became a trusted supplier to major contractors, trucking fleets, and industrial customers throughout the rapidly expanding Santa Clara Valley. To meet increasing demand for bulk fuel delivery, Spartan Tank Lines was launched in 1960 to handle full transport loads of gasoline and diesel.
In 1984, Tom’s sons, Steve and Jeff Lopes, joined the business and led the next phase of growth. The company expanded into bulk lubricants and hydraulic fluids, invested in advanced bulk storage systems, and strengthened its automated fleet fueling capabilities through the Pacific Pride cardlock network. In 2019, Jeff Lopes retired, and Greg Michael joined as President to work alongside Steve Lopes in guiding the company forward.
Today, Western States Oil Company operates multiple Bay Area facilities supporting cardlock fueling, retail locations, bobtail deliveries, and full transport services. The company remains at the forefront of fuel innovation, actively supplying biofuels, renewable diesel, and environmentally responsible alternatives that help customers reduce emissions while maintaining performance and reliability.
Above all, Western States Oil Company is powered by its people. Many team members have spent decades with the company, contributing to a culture built on trust, accountability, and service. That commitment is what continues to drive long-term partnerships and dependable solutions for customers across California.
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