A Showcase of Automotive Excellence
Automechanika Birmingham 2025 was a true celebration of the automotive industry, drawing over 15,000 professionals and 550 exhibitors to the NEC from across the UK and beyond. The event pulsed with innovation, collaboration, and the unmistakable energy of a sector on the move. WDA was right at the heart of it all, not as exhibitors, but as keen observers and connectors immersing ourselves in the latest trends, meeting industry leaders, and gathering insights to inform the future of automotive marketing.
Our presence at Automechanika was anchored by our partnership with TMD Friction, a long-standing client whose iconic Textar, Mintex, and Don brands are trusted across both passenger car and commercial vehicle sectors. We worked closely with TMD to design and deliver a bold, inviting stand that stood out on the busy showfloor. Our pre-event social media campaigns drove impressive results, increasing footfall by 63% compared to 2023 and helping to generate more than 400 qualified leads across the three days. This is a testament to the power of combining creative stand design with targeted digital marketing—a formula that ensures brands not only attract attention but also leave a lasting impression.
Trends Shaping the Future of Automotive
Sustainability was a major theme throughout the event, proving that it’s no longer just a buzzword but a core business imperative. Exhibitors like Bosch, 3M, and Castrol showcased real solutions designed to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and align with the UK’s ambitious net-zero targets. Bosch’s Secure Diagnostic Access (SDA) system empowers garages to repair rather than replace components, cutting waste by up to 40%. Meanwhile, 3M’s recyclable abrasives and low-VOC refinishing products target the 68% of bodyshops that now prioritise eco-compliance. Castrol’s Project Horizon initiative is another example, aiming to use 50% recycled base oils by 2030. For marketers, the message is clear: sustainability sells, but only when backed by credible certifications and authentic storytelling.
Technology was another dominant force at the show, with advanced diagnostics, AI, and connected workshop tools taking centre stage. A1 ADAS Group’s live calibration demos on a Tesla Model Y, powered by Autel’s MS Ultra S2 tablet, drew crowds and highlighted the growing importance of ADAS services—now considered critical by 63% of UK garages. AG Analytics demonstrated predictive maintenance algorithms that can reduce workshop downtime by 40%, while Repairify’s remote coding sessions showed how even smaller workshops can handle complex programming tasks. Snap-On’s APOLLO+ Diagnostics and HELLA’s X-20 CSC-Tool, displayed on a massive 86-inch screen, showcased the industry’s move towards connected, data-driven workflows. These innovations underscore the need for clear, jargon-free communications that make complex tech accessible to customers and workshop managers alike.
Networking, Connections, and Unexpected Encounters
Beyond the products and technologies, Automechanika is a hub for building relationships and sparking new ideas. Quick conversations with industry leaders like Iain Molloy of A1 ADAS Group and Chris Dear of Absolute Alignment revealed just how much value exhibitors place on LinkedIn campaigns and case studies—72% of them see these as essential tools for marketing success. The Innovation4Mobility Hub was another highlight, introducing us to startups like BatteryTech, whose AI-driven battery health tools could revolutionise the EV resale market. Even a casual chat in the coffee queue with WD-40’s UK lead offered valuable insights, as they shared plans for a TikTok series aimed at attracting Gen-Z apprentices—a reminder that 30% of garages are struggling to bring in young talent.
The event’s AI-powered networking app made it easier than ever to connect with the right people, schedule meetings, and track post-event analytics. These tools are transforming how businesses approach trade shows, making every handshake and conversation count.
Automotive Culture and Star Power
Automechanika was more than just business—it was a celebration of automotive culture and passion. We had the privilege of meeting Steve ‘Baggsy’ Biagioni, the professional drift legend, who walked us through his astonishing 1100bhp Nissan GT-R-powered Navara. The car was a true spectacle, stopping crowds in their tracks and sparking countless conversations. We also enjoyed a fascinating chat with Edd China, the engineering genius and star of Wheeler Dealers, whose enthusiasm for innovation and eccentric personality brought an extra spark to the show. And, of course, no event would be complete without a touch of the unexpected—like the roaming Stormtrooper who turned heads and raised smiles throughout the halls.
Key Takeaways and Looking Ahead
As we edit our event reel and reflect on the highlights of Automechanika Birmingham 2025, a few key lessons stand out. Sustainability is now a business imperative, but it must be backed by credible data and third-party certifications to truly resonate. The rapid pace of technological change means that complex innovations need to be explained in clear, engaging ways—think video demos rather than dense PDFs. And perhaps most importantly, networking remains at the heart of the industry, with 80% of exhibitors already booking their stands for 2026.
We’re already brainstorming how to bring the energy and insights of Automechanika into our digital strategies and campaigns. The future of automotive isn’t just about what you sell—it’s about how compellingly you share your story.
Thank You and See You in 2027
A massive thank you to everyone who made Automechanika Birmingham 2025 such an unforgettable experience—our clients, collaborators, and even that Stormtrooper. Whether you need stand design, social campaigns, or trend-led strategies, WDA is here to help you make the most of every opportunity. We’ll see you at Automechanika 2027, ready to drive the industry forward once again.
