Top Awards review 22 www.aftermarketonline.net DECEMBER/JANUARY 2026 ‘Inspirational’ benchmark for automotive excellence This year marked a milestone for Top Awards with the introduction of Top Apprentice, shining a spotlight on the next generation of UK automotive talent. Speaking at the awards ceremony Colin Denton, head judge for Top Apprentice and chief executive of the North London Garages Group Training Association, said: “When we were approached about adding Top Apprentice to the Top Awards, it immediately struck me as a brilliant idea. “Apprentices in the UK didn’t have anything like this at scale, and it’s been inspiring to see the level of skill and professionalism on display. Congratulations to all the finalists. You’ve shown what’s possible when talent meets dedication and great mentorship.” Ryan Fuller, managing director of the Top Awards, said: “This year’s finalists have demonstrated outstanding talent and commitment. Top Apprentice added a fantastic new dimension to the awards, highlighting the emerging talent that will drive the future of our industry. Congratulations to all our winners. You’ve truly set the ‘Top’ benchmark for excellence.” ‘Now time to shine online’ Garage Services Online (GSO) is calling on all Top Awards finalists to make sure their customers understand the skills and professionalism that earned them a place among the UK’s best, warning that even the most accomplished workshops risk missing out on profitable work if their expertise isn’t clearly visible online. As a key sponsor, GSO highlighted the critical role of digital visibility in turning technical and business excellence into tangible growth. Visitors to Delphi Academy had the chance to see how targeted campaigns help garages attract the right customers and convert clicks into bookings. “By supporting the Top Awards, we have the privilege of celebrating the very best, while also demonstrating how garages can turn their technical skill and professionalism into tangible, sustainable business growth,” said Jim Lang, MD at GSO. Expertise on display at academy Delphi Academy’s state-of-the-art training centre in Warwick provided the perfect environment for a day of highpressure and real-world challenges for Top Awards finalists. Luke Garratt, Delphi’s UK technical services manager, judged the Top Garage 10+ employee category, while Kenny Kay, technical support advisor at the academy, oversaw the 1-3 employee category. Katie Bowes, Top Apprentice finalist, on a task with judge Kevin Toms Event key speaker and Top Apprentice head judge Colin Denton
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