Taking centre stage for 2026 is Ramp Up, a dynamic new live feature created in partnership with JHM Butt and Snap-on. Designed to bring technical training and workshop conversations to life, Ramp Up will feature a fully operational vehicle ramp at the heart of the show floor, hosting a packed schedule of demonstrations, discussions and live content throughout the two-day event.

The feature has been developed to deliver an immersive workshop experience, giving visitors direct access to practical insight from some of the industry’s leading technicians and experts. Sessions will include hands-on demonstrations, interactive talks, real-world repair discussions and even a live podcast recording, all focused on helping garages stay ahead of rapidly evolving vehicle technologies and workshop demands.

By combining technical education with live engagement, Ramp Up aims to recreate the authentic feel of a modern workshop environment while encouraging open discussion, knowledge sharing and practical problem-solving.

Adding a more competitive and entertaining edge to the event is the launch of The Garage Games, a high-energy live competition where some of the UK’s best-known automotive technicians and influencers will go head-to-head in a series of workshop-inspired challenges. Taking part includes Alex Lindley of Lindleys Autocentres, The Norfolk Tech aka Jordan Kendal, The Tyre Lady’s Sophie Lyden, Womanic’s Lou Baker, Ant Jhally of AAK and Elliot Smart of Ells Autocare.

The Garage Games will be overseen by respected industry figures Matt Cleevely, Managing Director at Cleevely Motors, and Alex Jones, Marketing Director at Messe Frankfurt UK, organisers of UK Garage & Bodyshop Event. The competition promises a tongue-in-cheek but fiercely contested showcase of workshop skill, teamwork and technical ability.

Far more than a race against the clock, challenges will test precision, communication, coordination and the ability to perform under pressure, reflecting the real-world demands technicians face every day in busy workshops.

The addition of both features reflects the show’s continued commitment to delivering practical value alongside entertainment, networking and business insight.

Joanne Knowles, Event Director at Messe Frankfurt, organisers of the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, said: “The UK Garage & Bodyshop Event is all about creating a live experience that genuinely reflects the energy, challenges and innovation happening across today’s aftermarket.

“Ramp Up brings technical learning to life in a completely new way, giving visitors the opportunity to engage directly with experts through live demonstrations and discussions, while The Garage Games adds a fun and competitive element that celebrates the incredible skill and personality within the industry.

“These new additions are designed to make the event even more interactive, engaging and valuable for everyone attending.”

Alongside these new features, UK Garage & Bodyshop Event 2026 will once again deliver a comprehensive programme of technical training, live demonstrations, business seminars, networking opportunities and interactive feature zones designed to support garages and bodyshops navigating the future of the automotive aftermarket.

The UK Garage and Bodyshop Event 2026 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, on 3^rd to 4^th June 2026, registration is open now and free for trade visitors here.