Workshop wellbeing 41 www.aftermarketonline.net OCTOBER 2025 British product design company GaraDry has launched its GaraMat garage containment mat designed for home and commercial garages as well as workshops and industrial units. GaraMat protects flooring from water, mud, snow, and other debris, ensuring garage spaces remain clean and dry no matter the weather conditions. GaraDry said the product creates a barrier that captures and contains any spills or debris from vehicles. It also enables vehicles to be washed inside a garage by collecting water enabling safe disposal. A sponge column edge traps water, mud, and snow, preventing it from spreading across floors. GaraMat supports perfect parking, with white guidelines that provide a designated parking space inside a garage to maximise space. The innovative hivisibility ‘GaraStops’ ensure cars can be parked in the perfect spot for full garage protection, engineered with orange reflectors for easy visibility even in low light conditions. Ashley Smith, founder of GaraDry, said: “We paid particular attention to using premium materials in our production that are engineered to withstand harsh winter conditions without degrading. “We’ve also created a range of sizes to suit different types of vehicles from motorcycles to large SUVs and trucks. It’s ideal for homes, workshops, sheds, and commercial spaces.” https://uk.garadry.com/ photo credit Photo: GaraDry UK Mental health and wellbeing in the automotive industry will be among key topics in focus this year at The Blend — the annual conference and networking event for independent garages. Taking place on Saturday October 18, at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham, this year’s line-up features a mix of industry experts, successful garage owners, and managers addressing key issues including mental health, customer service, cybersecurity, and business growth strategies. Edward Cockill of Uckfield Motor Services will candidly share his personal journey through mental health challenges, offering valuable perspectives on how the industry can foster greater support for those facing similar struggles. Returning to The Blend, Dean Lomas of DC Lomas will reflect on the rollercoaster of the past two years, unpacking the pressures of rapid business expansion, cash flow hurdles, and the urgent need to bring-in younger talent to secure long-term success. Emma Lindley from Lindleys Autocentres will turn the spotlight on service advisors (also see p13 of this issue). Other key speakers will include Michael Shaikly of Shaikly Motor Services, Danny Trageskes, representing The Motor Ombudsman, Prashant Chopra of Autogem and Laurence Abbott from Autotech Group. Jay Wheatley of Absolutely Automotive will offer expert advice on exit planning, stressing the importance of preparing a garage business well in advance of sale. Tickets for The Blend 2025, including the conference and evening event, are priced at £150 plus VAT (https://www. theblend.events/tickets). Following event costs, any surplus proceeds will be donated to the automotive charity, Ben. Cleaning up in the garage Health and wellbeing in spotlight
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