Dave White, a much-loved member of the Lawton Tubes team, is celebrating an incredible milestone this year after reaching 50 years of service with the business!
Joining the company in September 1976 at just 17 years old, Dave began his career on the draw benches, helping manufacture the copper tube products that have become synonymous with the Lawton name. Five decades later, he remains a valued member of the factory team, having witnessed first-hand the company’s growth, innovation and evolution.
Over the years, Dave has worked alongside several generations of the Lawton family and has seen significant changes in both manufacturing processes and technology.
Reflecting on his career, Dave said: “It’s been solid, stable employment for me over the years, and I have loved every second of it.
“The job was much more physical back in the day, especially unloading lorries by hand, but technology has changed all of that now.
“My biggest highlight would have to be meeting my wife at a colleague’s party. If it wasn’t for Lawton Tubes, I would never have met my wife, so I thank them for that!”
Dave’s connection to Lawton extends beyond his own career. After he joined the business, both of his older brothers also became part of the team, further strengthening his family’s ties to the company.
His long-time colleague and friend, Chris, has worked alongside Dave for decades and credits him as an example to others on the factory floor.
“I’ve always known Dave to be a dedicated and hardworking person,” said Chris. “He’s a great example for others to follow. Lawton has always felt like a family business, and that’s one of the reasons why so many people stay here for so long.”
Giles Lawton, Managing Director of Operations, said: “Fifty years with one company is something you very rarely see today, and Dave has earned the thanks of everyone here.
“He joined us when a big job on the draw bench needed four people, and he has been part of every change since. That kind of experience and loyalty has helped carry this family business through more than a century.
As we continue to invest in the future of manufacturing, milestones like Dave’s serve as a reminder of the people whose dedication, knowledge and commitment have helped build the company into what it is today.
Congratulations Dave, on an extraordinary 50 years of service.
