Tributes paid following death of Andrew Lupton, of Econ Engineering
Ripon-based manufacturer, Econ Engineering, has announced the “sudden and unexpected” death of its sales director – Andrew Lupton.
The company says Lupton, 56, died on Sunday 9 January, adding that his death had come as a “terrible shock”.
The family business, which makes winter and road maintenance vehicle bodies, was founded as a supplier of agricultural equipment under the name of Agriquipment Ltd on 9 December 1969 by Andrew Lupton’s father, W George Lupton, in Otley.
In a statement, the firm said: “Our thoughts at this incredibly sad time go out to his family and all those who knew Andrew, either professionally or personally.
“Andrew, who ran this second-generation family engineering business alongside his brother and co-director, Jonathan Lupton and Finance Director Bev Shepherd, did so with immense passion and enthusiasm.
“It was his drive and determination that helped grow Econ into the business it is today – the leading manufacturer of gritters and highway maintenance vehicles in the UK.
“The industry we operate in is a niche one, and Andrew was an incredibly well-respected figure within it. It is our intention to open a book of condolence in due course.”
After taking a Business Studies Degree at Leicester Polytechnic, Lupton joined IBM in Sales. He joined the Econ family business as a sales manager in 1989, then became a board director in 1998.
