Ryan FowlerThe UK Garage and Bodyshop Event will return to the NEC, Birmingham from 3rd–4th June 2026, following the success of its 2022 debut and 2024 edition.
Organised by Messe Frankfurt UK, the show remains the country’s leading dedicated platform for training, technology and tools for the garage, bodyshop and detailing sectors.
The 2024 event attracted more than 5,000 professionals, and interest for 2026 is already strong. Major aftermarket suppliers, parts distributors and manufacturers have confirmed their participation, including Alliance Automotive Group, BM Catalysts, Bosch Automotive, Cataclean, Hella, JHM Butt & Co, Launch Tech UK, LKQ Euro Car Parts, Niterra, Pichler Tools, Ring Automotive, SATA, TechMan, The Race Group and Toyota Trade Parts.
The 2026 programme will again feature training hubs and live demonstrations such as the Workshop Theatre, Paint & Spray Live and Complete Collision & Car Care Live.
New features include the Ignite Arena, aimed at students, and the Business Management Theatre, designed to help garage and bodyshop owners improve operations and profitability. In total, attendees will have access to more than 80 hours of free training and practical sessions.
Joanne Knowles, event director at Messe Frankfurt UK, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing the UK Garage and Bodyshop Event back to the NEC for 2026.
“Since its launch in 2022 the show has gone from strength to strength. What really sets the event apart is the opportunity for professionals to get hands-on with the latest innovations, benefit from free skills training and connect directly with leading aftermarket brands.
“With thousands of decision-makers attending, it’s a powerful platform for suppliers and a must-attend event for anyone invested in the future of the aftermarket.”
Mark Hallam, head of marketing at ZF Aftermarket, said: “UK Garage & Bodyshop Event gives us a great opportunity to engage directly with our end customers at a time where such support is much needed.
“With so much change and development taking place in our industry, it is imperative we take a proactive approach in regards to delivering training, advice and support to our networks, ensuring our industry is equipped to face the future.”
Tim Clement, head of workshop solutions at NAPA Auto Parts, added: “The services and training we provide to our networks are designed to equip garage businesses for the future.
“UK Garage and Bodyshop is the perfect platform to showcase that, while engaging face-to-face directly, and understanding business needs at the coal face so we can continue to meet market demand.”
