The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) is set to play a central role at this year’s UK Garage & Bodyshop Event 2026, delivering a packed programme of activity designed to inform, inspire and connect the independent aftermarket.
Taking place on 3 and 4 June at the NEC Birmingham, the event will once again bring together garages, bodyshops, suppliers and industry leaders from across the UK, with the IAAF firmly at the heart of the action.
Kicking things off, the IAAF will host its Council meeting on Wednesday 3 June, bringing together key industry figures to discuss the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the sector. As the voice of the independent aftermarket, the Federation continues to champion collaboration and strategic direction at the highest level.
A major highlight for 2026 is the introduction of the IAAF Pavilion, a brand-new feature on the show floor. The dedicated space will showcase IAAF members, providing garages with access to trusted suppliers, innovative products and services. The Pavillion offers the opportunity for companies that have never exhibited at the show a chance to get involved. Designed to strengthen connections across the supply chain, the Pavilion offers visitors a valuable opportunity to engage with the businesses shaping the future of the aftermarket.
Innovation and collaboration will take centre stage with the return of Garage Den, a pioneering IAAF initiative that brings suppliers and independent garages together to co-develop commercially viable solutions. Taking place on Wednesday 3 June, the live session will unveil concepts shaped over six months of real-world collaboration, offering valuable insight into how the industry can innovate through partnership.
Adding a competitive edge to proceedings, the Automechanika Birmingham Garage Awards, hosted by the IAAF and headline sponsored by LKQ Euro Car Parts, will celebrate excellence across the sector. Taking place on the evening of Wednesday 3 June, the awards will recognise outstanding achievement, innovation and commitment from the very best independent garages and bodyshops in the UK, following a record-breaking number of entries.
For those looking for something a little more… fiery, the hugely popular Hot Wings Challenge returns on Thursday 4 June at 2pm in the Business Management Theatre. Hosted by IAAF Chief Executive Mark Field, the session features a standout panel including Tina Drayson (CCM Garages), Gary Wood (Intelligent Auto), Jenny Price (James Price Garage) and Jordan Kendal (JLK Vehicle Technicians). As the wings get hotter, so do the questions, delivering unfiltered insight, honest debate and plenty of entertainment in a format that has quickly become a crowd favourite.
Alongside the more interactive elements, the IAAF will also deliver critical technical insight, with Technical Director James Dillon taking to the stage to address one of the most important regulatory developments facing workshops today. His session, “SERMI in the UK: What It Really Means for Your Garage,” will provide essential clarity on the new security-related requirements and what they mean in practical terms for independent operators.
Commenting on the IAAF’s presence at the event, Mark Field said: “The UK Garage & Bodyshop Event provides the federation with a vital platform to demonstrate the role the federation plays in the aftermarket. From innovation and technical insight to celebrating excellence and supporting the next generation, everything we’re delivering is focused on helping our members navigate change and seize opportunity.”
Free to attend for trade visitors, the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event is a must-attend for garages, workshops and bodyshop professionals looking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
From hands-on innovation and technical learning to networking and industry celebration, the IAAF’s programme ensures there is something for every attendee, all under one roof.
