The UK Garage & Bodyshop Event has unveiled an expanded line-up of live features, technical training and expert-led sessions for its 2026 show, taking place at the NEC Birmingham on 3rd – 4th June.
Bringing together leading suppliers, technicians, workshop owners and aftermarket professionals, the two-day event has been designed to help garages navigate the rapid pace of technological and commercial change across the sector through practical learning, live demonstrations and hands-on experiences.
At the heart of the event is the Workshop Theatre, where visitors can access technical sessions focused on EV servicing and repair, ADAS calibration, diagnostics, connected vehicle technologies and MOT updates. Sessions include “Preparing Your Workshop for the EV Repair Era” and “ADAS Calibration: From Optional Extra to Essential Workshop Capability” with Bosch Mobility Aftermarket, alongside “Secure Vehicle Gateways: Protecting the Connected Car” with HELLA and “MOT & EV Insights: What the Data Really Tells Us” delivered by GiPA and Shaikly Motor Company.
Alongside the technical content, the Business Management Theatre will focus on the commercial realities of running a modern workshop, with sessions covering profitability, recruitment, workshop efficiency, digitalisation and future-proofing garage operations.
Discussions will include “SERMI in the UK: What it really means for your garage” with James Dillon, “Is fleet work profitable?” with Tim Guidotti of Ferdotti Motor Services and “Turning Numbers into Profit: Smarter Prioritisation for Garage Growth” from Tina Drayson of CCM Garages.
Returning for 2026, the Auto Technician Workshop Hub will deliver practical demonstrations and workshop-focused training designed specifically for working technicians, while the Modern Garage feature will showcase the latest connected workshop technologies, tools and operational solutions designed to improve efficiency and productivity in today’s aftermarket environment.
New for 2026 is the IAAF Garage Den, an initiative launched by the IAAF at the end of 2025, pairing aftermarket suppliers with independent garages to co-develop new commercial products and services. Successful collaborations and concepts will be unveiled live during the event, giving visitors an insight into future aftermarket innovation.
Adding an interactive twist to the programme, Hot Topics With Hot Wings will bring together well-known aftermarket personalities and industry leaders for lively discussions hosted by Mark Field, Chief Executive at the IAAF.
The Ignite Arena will once again focus on careers, innovation and attracting new talent into the sector, supported by a dedicated Student Programme developed in partnership with Autotech Recruit and School of Thought. Visitors can also expect interactive features including Garage Games, hosted by Matt Cleevely, alongside live restoration projects and automotive heritage displays throughout the show floor.
Another major addition for 2026 is Ramp Up, a dynamic new live feature created in partnership with JHM Butt and Snap-on. Taking centre stage at the event, Ramp Up will feature a fully operational vehicle ramp hosting live demonstrations, technical discussions and interactive workshop content designed to bring hands-on training and real-world repair insight to life across the two-day event.
Adding to the event’s diverse line-up of features and interactive hubs is STREETBUS, a converted American school bus turned vibrant mobile community space. Bringing a fun and inclusive atmosphere to the show floor, STREETBUS will offer visitors a unique place to connect, relax and enjoy an unforgettable experience throughout the event.
The event will also once again host the Automechanika Birmingham Thirty Under 30 awards programme, recognising emerging talent and rising stars from across the aftermarket sector.
Joanne Knowles, Event Director at Messe Frankfurt UK, organisers of UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, said: “The UK Garage & Bodyshop Event is designed to give workshops practical, hands-on access to the tools, training and insight they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving aftermarket.
“With more than 80 expert-led training sessions, live demonstrations and interactive features across the two days, the event continues to bring together the very best of the aftermarket community under one roof.”
