UK Garage & Bodyshop Event 2026 Set to Bring the Aftermarket Together at NEC Birmingham

The UK aftermarket industry is preparing for one of its biggest trade gatherings of the year as the returns to the NEC Birmingham on 3–4 June 2026.

Organised by Messe Frankfurt, the two-day exhibition is expected to attract more than 5,500 garage, bodyshop and detailing professionals, alongside over 200 leading suppliers and brands from across the automotive aftermarket.

With the industry continuing to adapt to electrification, ADAS calibration, connected vehicle technology and evolving compliance requirements, this year’s event is shaping up to be one of the most important yet for independent workshops and MOT professionals.

A Focus on the Real Challenges Facing Workshops

The 2026 edition of the show will place a strong emphasis on practical solutions for modern garages. Topics expected to dominate the halls and seminar theatres include:

• EV and hybrid servicing
• ADAS diagnostics and calibration
• MOT and compliance developments
• Cyber security and vehicle data access
• SERMI and Block Exemption changes
• Workshop profitability and customer retention
• Advanced diagnostics and fault finding

According to event organisers, the exhibition has been designed specifically around the issues currently affecting independent workshops across the UK.

For MOT testers and independent garage owners, the event offers an opportunity to see the latest equipment and software in action while also keeping up to date with regulatory and technical developments affecting the sector.

Major Brands and Suppliers Confirmed

A wide range of aftermarket suppliers have already confirmed their attendance for 2026, including major names in diagnostics, lubricants, tooling and repair technology.

Exhibitors listed for the event include:

• Bosch
• Castrol
• LKQ Euro Car Parts
• AUTEL
• AkzoNobel
• ALLDATA Europe
• NAPA Auto Parts

The exhibitor list continues to grow, with organisers promising live demonstrations, hands-on workshops and product launches across the two-day event.

Live Demonstrations and Training Areas

One of the key attractions of the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event is its focus on interactive learning rather than traditional static exhibition stands.

The 2026 show will feature several dedicated live zones and training hubs, including:

• Workshop Theatre
• Paint & Spray Live
• Complete Collision & Car Care Live
• Vehicle Detailing Live
• The new Ignite Arena for students and future technicians

Organisers say the new Ignite Arena has been introduced to help support skills development and attract the next generation of technicians into the aftermarket sector.

For MOT professionals, this hands-on format provides an opportunity to see emerging technologies demonstrated in real-world workshop scenarios rather than simply reading about them online.

Why the Event Matters for MOT Testers

The role of the MOT tester continues to evolve as vehicles become more software-driven and increasingly dependent on electronic safety systems.

Modern workshops are now dealing with:

• ADAS-equipped vehicles
• Connected diagnostics
• EV safety procedures
• Software updates and cyber security requirements
• More complex emissions and compliance systems

As a result, staying up to date with tooling, training and legislation has never been more important.

The UK Garage & Bodyshop Event aims to bridge that gap by bringing suppliers, trainers and technicians together under one roof. For many independent garages, it also offers the chance to compare diagnostic platforms, speak directly with manufacturers and evaluate new workshop equipment before investing.

Free Registration for Trade Visitors

Visitor registration for the 2026 event is now open and attendance remains free for trade professionals.

The event takes place in Hall 6 at the NEC Birmingham on Wednesday 3 June and Thursday 4 June 2026, with opening times from 9:30am to 4:30pm each day.

As the aftermarket continues to navigate rapid technological change, events like UKGBE 2026 are becoming increasingly valuable for workshops looking to futureproof their businesses and keep pace with industry developments.