Amilcare Merlo, president and founder of the Merlo Group, passed away earlier this month at the age of 88.

Family members describe Merlo as “a brilliant and visionary entrepreneur with an innate curiosity and exceptional technical skills, thanks to which he led the development of numerous innovative projects in the field of agricultural and industrial mechanics that made him, to all intents and purposes, a leader in innovation and a pioneer in the sector”.

“Always attentive and respectful of his collaborators, he never failed to greet them every day and to show genuine interest in each one. He considered the company a large ‘family’, and so it was, aware that he was a reference point and example of dedication and passion for his work,” the family statement continues.

Merlo was honoured by the Italian state which conferred a Knight of the Order of Merit for Labour title in 2002. In the same year, he was awarded the honour of Knight of the Order of Agricultural Merit of the French Republic.

The Merlo family enterprise dates back to 1911, when it was founded by Amilcare and his sister Natalina, who passed away in 2021.

The company has grown over the decades to become an international giant, a leader

in the production of telehandlers and other machinery that today employs more than 1,600 people and exports its products all over the world.

Colleagues at Merlo UK say they are deeply saddened by the passing and their thoughts go out to the Merlo family, friends, loved ones and the many people throughout his beloved local community of Cuneo whose lives he touched.

“Amilcare Merlo was a truly inspiring figure for anyone that had the pleasure to meet him,” says Shaun Groom, general manager of Merlo UK Ltd. “I know I can say that his wisdom, wit, determination and expertise will be missed by all.

“We will continue in the manner that he would have wished, ensuring the Merlo brand continues to innovate, develop and grow in the United Kingdom.”

Merlo is survived by his wife, Denise and children, Cristina, Paolo, Silvia, Andrea and Marco, along with several grandchildren.