The 2025 Top Awards are in full swing, with the first two rounds complete and only the third round of Top Technician, plus the semi-finals and finals across all three competitions, still to come. The race to be crowned Top Garage, Technician, or Apprentice has never been more fierce.
Backed by leading industry names, the awards celebrate excellence while raising standards across workshops nationwide.
Entrants must navigate multiple rounds of increasingly challenging tests, demonstrating technical skill, problem-solving, and dedication at every stage. Only those who consistently perform at the highest level reach the semi-finals and finals, making each finalist truly deserving of recognition for their expertise and commitment.
Matt Boyce, Marketing Lead at long-time Top Awards partner Snap-On, said the competitions “highlight the skill and commitment of garages and technicians across the country. By supporting the next generation, we aim to inspire continued excellence and growth in the sector.”
The semi-finals and finals take place at Delphi Academy, bringing the UK’s best talent into one of Europe’s largest and most advanced automotive training centres. Luke Garratt, UK Technical Services Manager at Delphi, said: “Hosting these events allows us to celebrate incredible expertise, provide a professional platform for finalists, and encourage learning and collaboration across the industry.”
Other returning partners include LKQ Euro Car Parts, TOPDON, JLM Liquid Tools and VARTA, each supporting technical skill, business growth, and emerging talent.
New to the Top Awards this year, Garage Hive brings its community-focused garage management expertise. Director Alex Lindley commented: “These competitions perfectly align with our mission: celebrating technical skill, business excellence, and the future of independent garages.”
Also making its debut as a sponsor, Garage Services Online is sharing expertise in online growth. The platform is known for helping independent garages enhance their online presence, generate leads, and attract the right customers.
“Just as these competitions showcase the best in technical skill and business leadership, we help garages showcase their expertise online, ensuring they attract the right customers and secure more profitable work,” said Jim Lang, Managing Director at Garage Services Online. “Through this sponsorship, we’re not only celebrating the industry’s top talent but also reinforcing our commitment to helping independent garages thrive.”
Launched in 2002, Top Technician has set the standard for testing the diagnostic expertise of vehicle technicians. In 2018, the Top Awards programme expanded with Top Garage, recognising independent businesses that excel in service, professionalism, and operational excellence. Now, in 2025, the introduction of Top Apprentice provides a much-needed platform for the next generation of automotive talent.
Mechanic Mindset’s Darren Quinn said: “It’s an honour to celebrate the UK’s finest garages, technicians, and apprentices. Every participant demonstrates incredible dedication, and it’s inspiring to see such talent showcased across the country.”
The Top Award finals take place on 15 November at Delphi Academy, Warwick, with winners revealed later that evening at a gala ceremony at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Coventry.
Follow Top Awards on social media to keep up with the latest heats and announcements.
