The countdown is officially on. With less than one month to go until the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event 2026 opens its doors at the NEC Birmingham (3 – 4 June), the industry is gearing up to welcome thousands of garage owners, bodyshop professionals, technicians and future talent for two high-impact days of business, learning and innovation.

Whether you run a garage, manage a bodyshop or work on the tools, this is the event designed to help you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape. With electrification continuing to accelerate, one in four new cars now offering a plug-in option and around one in every 33 vehicles on UK roads already electrified, the need to upskill has never been greater.

Alongside the shift towards connected and autonomous technologies, and with the ban on new combustion engine cars now set for 2035, the event provides a timely opportunity to future-proof your business.

Joanne Knowles, Event Director at Messe Frankfurt, organisers of the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, said: “More than just a trade show, the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event is your ultimate hands-on experience! Dive into live demonstrations and over 80 expert-led training sessions, all designed to inspire and upskill UK garages, bodyshops, and detailers. Don’t miss out, discover everything waiting for you at the NEC this June!”

Visitors can expect a dynamic show floor packed with leading suppliers, live demos and new product showcases, alongside a wide range of interactive feature areas. Highlights include the new Bodyshop Village, a dedicated space for collision repair professionals to explore the latest tools, paint and refinishing solutions, and the Workshop Theatre, delivering practical seminars on diagnostics, EV repair, ADAS and more.

The popular Paint & Spray Live feature will return with a fully operational spray booth hosting live demonstrations, while the Collision & Detail Lab offers expert-led sessions on everything from dent removal to paint correction. For business owners and managers and the Business Management Theatre will provide actionable insights into profitability, sustainability and adapting to industry change.

New and interactive elements will add even more energy to this year’s event. From live dent-pulling demonstrations and innovative showcases like the IAAF Garage Den, to engaging sessions such as the Hot Wings Challenge, there’s something for every corner of the aftermarket. Visitors can also explore a blend of heritage and creativity, from a classic 1925 Sunbeam Tourer to a unique father-and-son Mini rebuild project.

The event will also continue to support the next generation through initiatives like the Ignite Arena and dedicated Student Programme, offering hands-on experiences, career insights and opportunities to connect with industry professionals.

With a packed agenda, hands-on learning and unrivalled networking opportunities, the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event 2026 is free to attend, but with demand rising fast, visitors are urged to pre-book now to secure their place.

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.