Schaeffler has confirmed that its REPXPERT Conference will return on 14 May 2026, following exceptional feedback from the inaugural event last year.
After attracting more than 200 technicians and business owners in 2024, the company says it is aiming to make the conference a permanent fixture in the industry calendar.
The 2026 event will move to a new venue, the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire, allowing Schaeffler to welcome even more delegates and provide expanded networking opportunities.
Expectations are high, but the team says its focus is on building on a proven format that resonated strongly with workshops.
Marketing Communications Manager, Jeff Earl, said the aim is to evolve the event without losing what made the first edition a success. “Our plan for next year is ‘if it’s not broken, don’t fix it!’” he explained. “So we are taking the best bits from last year, such as the Garage Forum, TechZone, and afternoon breakout sessions, then adding even more special guests and engaging content for visitors to get their teeth into.”
The first major announcement for 2026 is the event’s opening keynote speaker: Fuzz Townsend, well-known drummer, mechanic and TV personality.
Jeff said: “I’m really pleased to announce that the first keynote speaker will be Fuzz Townsend… I’m sure he has some great stories to share from his incredible career.”
To help manage demand and ensure attendees make full use of the day, Schaeffler has introduced a £10 booking fee, with all proceeds going to the automotive charity Ben. Earl said the approach will help manage attendance while offering strong value to delegates.
“This should hopefully ensure that everybody that registers for a ticket will attend on the day to collect their free VIP delegate bag, enjoy breakfast, lunch, and refreshments throughout the day, and get entry into a prize draw with some fantastic prizes,” he said. “Of course, everybody also gets a full day at conference, including the invaluable networking, training and entertainment opportunities on offer. And to top it all off, you even get a chance to spend some time in the motor museum after the event ends.”
Ben welcomed the support, with Head of Awareness & Experience, Ellen Plumer, saying: “We are looking forward to meeting everybody at Schaeffler’s REPXPERT Conference on May 14th next year.
“Not only is it a great day out for workshop professionals, but it also helps to raise awareness and vital funds for Ben to provide health and wellbeing support for those who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry.”
Registration is now open and, despite increased capacity, tickets are expected to be limited.
Schaeffler is encouraging technicians to secure their place early, with more announcements and guest reveals to follow in the run-up to the event.
