The automotive aftermarket came together in style on Wednesday 3 June as the Automechanika Birmingham Garage Awards 2026 recognised the outstanding achievements of garages, technicians, workshops and aftermarket professionals from across the UK.
Hosted by the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) and headline sponsored by LKQ Euro Car Parts, the annual garage awards evening took place at the NEC Birmingham following the first day of the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event. The evening was expertly compered by Phil Seymour, who guided guests through the celebrations and award presentations.
Award-winning comedian Scott Bennett entertained attendees throughout the evening, helping to create a memorable atmosphere as businesses and individuals celebrated their achievements. Guests were also treated to a lively Bongo’s Bingo experience, adding an extra element of fun and ensuring the celebrations continued long after the awards had been presented.
Mark Field, Chief Executive at IAAF, said: “The response to this year’s awards has been phenomenal. Not only did we receive a record number of entries, but the quality across every category was outstanding. The winners and finalists should be incredibly proud of their achievements, which demonstrate the strength, professionalism and innovation that exists throughout the independent aftermarket.
“These awards are about much more than recognising excellence on one evening. Being nominated is just the beginning of a garage’s journey with IAAF and Automechanika Birmingham. We are committed to supporting nominees and winners with their ongoing development, helping provide opportunities for growth, sharing best practice and ensuring their voice is heard as we continue to champion the independent aftermarket.”
The winners of the Automechanika Birmingham Garage Awards 2026 were:
Garage of the Year
• Winner: Uckfield Motor Services Ltd
• Highly Commended: Bartlett Automotive Huntingdon Limited
Multi-Site Garage
• Winner: EAC Telford
• Highly Commended: The Forge Garage
Single-Site Garage
• Winner: Cleevely Motors Ltd
• Highly Commended: Simon Graeme Auto Service Centre
Auto-Mechanik
• Winner: Brian Hale, Mechtronic
• Highly Commended: Sam Johnson, SJ Autocentre
Best Community Initiative
• Winner: Autocheck Faversham
• Highly Commended: First Step Trust T/A Smart Garage Services
Best Customer Service
• Winner: Shaw’s Service Station
• Highly Commended: Fine Drive Autocentres
Best Marketing Garage
• Winner: EAC Telford
• Highly Commended: VMB Autocentre
Best Content Creator
• Winner: Louise Baker, Womanic
• Highly Commended: RMS Diagnostics
Young Mechanik
• Winner: Jacob Patterson
• Highly Commended: Ryan Taylor
Lifetime Achievement Award
• Winner: Darren Knight, Mike Knight Autos Birmingham
Finalists and nominees will continue to benefit from engagement with IAAF and the wider Automechanika Birmingham community, helping them access new opportunities, share knowledge and strengthen their businesses long after the awards evening has ended.
