About us

The Handloom societies in Andhra Pradesh are organised under a two-tier cooperative structure. At the village level, the sector comprises Primary Handloom Weavers’ Cooperative Societies (PHWCS), while at the State level, The A.P. State Handloom Weavers’ Cooperative Society Ltd. (The APSHWCS Ltd.), popularly known as APCO, functions as the Apex Society. APCO was established with the primary objective of providing marketing support to the Primary Handloom Weavers’ Cooperative Societies and helping weavers access better markets for their products. The Government of Andhra Pradesh recognises the need for continued support and protection of the handloom sector, as it represents the State’s rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship. Handloom production also faces inherent cost disadvantages compared to mechanised textiles. Therefore, government support and APCO’s initiatives aim to provide a level playing field for handloom weavers, strengthen their livelihoods, improve market access, promote their traditional skills, and enable them to compete confidently in today’s market while preserving the rich handloom heritage of Andhra Pradesh.

Management of APCO

The Apex Society, APCO, is governed by a Board of Management comprising 11 Directors and 6 Official Directors, representing the interests of the cooperative handloom sector and ensuring effective administration and implementation of the Society’s objectives. The Vice-Chairman and Managing Director (VC & MD) provides administrative leadership and coordinates the overall functioning of the Society. The elected Managing Committee has a term of three years. APCO has a network of 10 Divisional Marketing Offices (DMOs) located in major districts of Andhra Pradesh, along with one Divisional Office in Telangana State. These offices play an important role in coordinating marketing activities, supporting affiliated societies, facilitating the movement and sale of handloom products, and strengthening the connection between weavers and markets. APCO is supported by a dedicated workforce of approximately 320 employees who contribute to the Society’s administrative, marketing and operational activities. Around 970 Primary Handloom Weavers’ Cooperative Societies are affiliated with APCO, forming an extensive cooperative network across the State. Through this network, APCO supports the production, procurement, marketing and promotion of handloom products while creating better market opportunities for weavers. The Society also works towards strengthening the traditional handloom sector, preserving the unique weaving skills and heritage of Andhra Pradesh, and ensuring that the benefits of organised marketing reach the weaver community.

APCO- Empowering Artisans Since 1976

Handlooms are an integral part of the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh, carrying forward generations of traditional skills, craftsmanship and artistic excellence. For decades, skilled weavers and artisan families have dedicated themselves to preserving these unique traditions. Established in 1976 by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, APCO has been working for 50 years to empower weavers and strengthen the handloom sector by providing marketing support, creating better market opportunities and promoting the rich variety of Andhra Pradesh handlooms. APCO continues to connect traditional weavers with modern markets, helping preserve our handloom heritage while supporting the livelihoods of the weavers who keep this timeless craft alive.

APCO was established with the vision of strengthening and revitalising the handloom sector of Andhra Pradesh. Today, APCO supports the livelihoods of weavers and artisans associated with around 970 Primary Handloom Weavers’ Cooperative Societies. Its aim is to promote handlooms, preserve the authenticity of traditional craftsmanship and create greater awareness of the skill, time and effort involved in every handwoven product. Through marketing support and better market opportunities, APCO strives to empower weavers financially, help preserve their traditional skills and ensure that the rich and diverse handloom heritage of Andhra Pradesh continues to reach customers across India and the world.