Top Technician, Top Garage and Top Apprentice 18 www.aftermarketonline.net JUNE 2025 More time to shine but don’t delay! The deadline to enter Top Garage and Top Apprentice has been extended following a surge of interest in the competitions — allowing extra time for entries to be prepared for those hoping to be crowned as this year’s champions Independent garages and the next generation of industry talent now have additional time to prove their excellence, as organisers of the Top Awards have extended the entry deadline for the 2025 Top Garage and Top Apprentice competitions to midnight on Monday, June 30. The decision comes in response to a surge of late interest and ongoing discussions with garage owners and apprenticeship providers, with many asking for more time to complete their applications. Ryan Fuller, managing director at the Top Awards, said: “By extending the deadline, we’re allowing garages and apprentices the chance to fully prepare and showcase the high standards of skill, professionalism, and dedication that define the very best in the sector. “The quality of entries we’ve seen so far has been outstanding, and we look forward to welcoming even more talent as the deadline approaches.” The Top Awards series, which recently closed its Top Technician competition, has earned a reputation as one of the industry’s most respected benchmarks for quality and achievement. It not only rewards excellence but sets a clear standard for success across the vehicle servicing and repair sector. Top Garage welcomes all independent operators, from solo mobile mechanics to multi-site businesses, while Top Apprentice targets Level 2 and Level 3 students studying at UK colleges or training academies. Both competitions feature two initial online qualifying rounds, before a select group advance to live finals at the Delphi Academy, Warwick, on November 15. At the academy, candidates will face in-depth interviews and hands-on challenges assessed by expert judges — culminating in a black-tie awards ceremony at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Coventry. Fuller added: “These awards are about more than just trophies. They offer a valuable opportunity to benchmark your business or skills, receive detailed feedback from leading industry professionals, and discover areas to improve. “Whether you’re managing a workshop, working as a technician, or developing as an apprentice, the Top Awards are designed to inspire, challenge, and raise standards throughout the industry.” With the extended deadline fast approaching, garage owners and apprentices are encouraged to seize this chance to gain national recognition and elevate their careers. And with a total cache of prizes worth around £40,000 up for grabs — including tools, training, cash, and more — the competitions are a unique opportunity to celebrate the automotive industry’s finest. Top Garage, now in its seventh year, is designed to highlight the UK’s best garages, reward their efforts and help develop and add value to the independent garage network while championing their success, however big or small! Over the last few years, Top Garage has grown from strength to strength, with the recent addition of awards for the Top Service Advisor, BEN Workplace Health & Wellbeing categories, plus Mobile Mechanic — dedicating to rewarding the increasing number of technicians who work ‘on the road’ and on call for homes and businesses. Top Apprentice, launched just this year, brings a fresh focus to the rising stars of the garage sector. This exciting new initiative recognises and celebrates the exceptional skills, talent, and dedication of apprentices who are driving the future of the automotive industry. From showcasing cutting-edge technical expertise to demonstrating outstanding problem-solving abilities, Top Apprentice sets the stage for young professionals to shine. This is your chance to be recognised among the new generation of technicians making their mark in a competitive and dynamic field. Remember, entries must be submitted by midnight on June 30. Click on the QR code and see facing page for details.
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