Once again taking place at Manchester’s prestigious Lowry Hotel, the CAT Awards shine a spotlight on the UK automotive aftermarket.

From independent garages to component suppliers, training schemes, and rising talent, the awards celebrate excellence across the entire sector.

Entries for the 2026 awards are now open: CAT Awards 2026 Nominations

CAT Award tickets will be released soon.

CAT Awards 2026 Categories

Factor Chain of the Year: Open to all light vehicle and CV motor factors, including independent, chain, and VM-owned suppliers. This award recognises exceptional service delivered to garages and customers alike.

Factor Branch Team of the Year: Behind every busy parts counter is a team making the impossible happen. This award celebrates branch teams delivering outstanding customer service under pressure.

Training Scheme of the Year: Now in its third year, this category highlights courses and training initiatives offering the greatest impact for trainees in the aftermarket.

Independent Garage of the Year: The award every garage wants to win. Open to independents and branch garages alike, recognising technical excellence and exceptional customer service.

Retailer of the Year: Dating back to the early 1980s, this award celebrates inspiring retail stories that have thrived despite industry challenges.

Achievement Award: Honouring an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the aftermarket, whether in the past year or over their career.

Supplier of the Year: One of the most fiercely contested categories, open to all component suppliers and manufacturers. Voted for by CAT readers.

Rising Star: Celebrates the up-and-coming talent in the automotive industry, regardless of background, often recognising those overcoming adversity.

Industry Partner: Recognising firms that provide professional support to the aftermarket, from PR and recruitment to software, insurance, and legal services. Voted for by CAT readers.

Environmental Award: Now in its second year, this category celebrates positive environmental impacts in the aftermarket, from refurbishment to circular economy initiatives.

Garage Concept of the Year: Publicly voted, this award recognises the best garage network, scheme, or concept nationwide, including franchise and corporate-owned brands.

Innovation Award: Launched in 2025, this award celebrates cutting-edge innovation that pushes the aftermarket forward, from EV solutions to process improvements and beyond.