Independent garages converge at The Blend 2024 for record attendance and industry insights

Over 400 attendees gather for networking, knowledge sharing, and award recognition

Independent garages converge at The Blend 2024 for record attendance and industry insights

The UK and Ireland’s independent garage community came together at The Blend 2024, marking a significant growth year with a 27% increase in attendance compared to 2023.

The sold-out event in Birmingham on 28 September featured keynote addresses, breakout sessions, and ample networking opportunities. Industry leaders like Ray Dilsons (Garage Hive) and Kirstie Foster (Castrol) presented topics ranging from workshop efficiency to female inclusivity in the garage environment.

A popular highlight was the “speed networking” session, allowing attendees to connect and share ideas in a fast-paced environment. The afternoon offered a diverse selection of breakout sessions led by experts on business growth, emerging technologies, human resources, and mental health.

John Batten (Auto IQ) stressed the importance of profitability, while Andy Crook (Atomic Success) provided insights on the decline of diesel repairs and its impact on garages. The afternoon also featured presentations on artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and online presence building.

A total of 23 speakers shared their knowledge throughout the day, complemented by networking opportunities with suppliers like Castrol, GSF Car Parts, and LKQ Euro Car Parts.

The evening concluded with a keynote address by David Massey (ADS Automotive) on work-life balance followed by The Blend Awards 2024 hosted by TV’s Alexis Conran.

Shaikly Motor Company was named Garage of the Year in the ‘multilocation’ category, while Intelligent Auto LTD and Lawson AutoTech received awards in the ‘1-4 staff’ and ‘5+ staff’ categories, respectively.

The Community’s Garage of the Year Award went to Oldfields Garage, while Laura Guild of Lawson AutoTech received the Staff Recognition Award. The Community Member of the Year Award was presented to Diana Whetton of PW Auto Repairs, and Castle Garage Ashby was honoured with the Garage Hive Innovator Award.

“Together, we’ve raised the bar once again,” Ray Dilsons, Event Director at The Blend. “We saw over 400 committed, invested, and hard-working garage owners, managers, and industry professionals come together to exchange practical ideas and business-improving strategies.

“Thank you to all of those who attended and to our sponsors for making this conference truly unique.”

Looking ahead, The Blend will return to Birmingham’s Eastside Rooms on 18 October, 2025.

Garages are encouraged to subscribe to The Blend Podcast, available on all major platforms, for an all-year-round dose of Blend inspiration and industry insights.

For more information on The Blend and to register interest for next year’s event, please click here.

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