Top Awards news 8 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2026 Experience the Top Awards finals for yourself this November For the first time, independent garage owners, technicians, apprentices and aftermarket professionals are being invited to experience the excitement of the Top Awards Finals in person. On Saturday 14 November, at the Delphi Academy in Warwick, the 2026 Top Awards finals will open their doors to the wider aftermarket, giving visitors the chance to watch the UK’s best garages, technicians and apprentices compete live, discover the latest workshop technology and spend the day with some of the industry’s most knowledgeable and passionate people. Until now, the Finals have been reserved for competitors, judges and partners. This year, however, anyone with an interest in the independent aftermarket is welcome to come along and see what makes the Top Awards such a special occasion. “Whether you’re competing or not, I’d encourage anyone in the industry to join us,” said Ryan Fuller, Managing Director of Top Awards. “You’ll get to experience the finals at the fantastic Delphi Academy, see the latest products and technologies from our industry partners and, most importantly, spend time with some of the best technicians, apprentices and garage owners in the country. “It’s a brilliant opportunity to pick up new ideas, catch up with people from across the trade and see first-hand what makes the Top Awards so special. We’d love to welcome as many people as possible.” Throughout the day, visitors will be able to watch the country’s top technicians and apprentices tackle demanding 50-minute live fault-finding challenges, while the finalists in Top Garage present their businesses to an expert judging panel as they compete to be recognised as the UK’s leading independent workshop. If you’ve ever thought about entering the competition yourself, there’s no better way to see what’s involved. Watching the live assessments provides a real insight into the standard required, the judging process and how finalists approach each challenge, making it the perfect opportunity to prepare for the 2027 competition. Away from the competition arena, Top Awards Live will bring together many of the aftermarket’s leading suppliers and technology providers, all showcasing the latest products, equipment and services. Industry partners including Snap-on, TOPDON UK, VARTA, Delphi, JLM Liquid Tools, Garage Hive, Omoda Jaecoo, HELLA, Hofmann Megaplan UK, LKQ Euro Car Parts, Mechanic Mindset, Garage Services Online, Castrol and The Race Group will all be on hand to demonstrate new technology, answer questions and chat with visitors throughout the day. There will also be plenty of opportunities to relax and catch up with friends and colleagues over Ben’s Big Breakfast, sponsored by HELLA and served from a bright yellow American school bus provided by Yellow Bus Catering. HELLA will fund the first 250 breakfasts free of charge, with visitors encouraged to make a donation to automotive charity Ben. The day concludes with the Top Awards Gala Dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton Coventry, where the winners of Top Technician, Top Garage, Top Apprentice, the Service Advisor Award and the Ben Health & Wellbeing Award will be revealed. To find out more about attending the 2026 Top Awards Finals and Gala Dinner, follow the link below. aftermarketonline.net/toptechniciantopgarage
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ0NzM=