Independent workshops, technicians, and apprentices are being urged to throw their hats in the ring as entries officially open for the British Independent Garage of the Year Awards (The BIG Awards) 2027.
Organised by the Independent Garage Association (IGA), the competition marks its fifth anniversary with significant logistical changes.
The 2027 ceremony will shift to a new summer date, taking place on Friday 18th June 2027, and will relocate to a larger home at the Coventry Building Society Arena.
Garages can submit entries across 15 distinct award categories, covering key operational areas including customer service, technical training, community engagement, and overall business excellence, alongside categories recognising individual contributions across the independent sector.
Stuart James, Chief Executive of the Independent Garage Association, noted that the expanded venue and revised timing reflect the growing scale of the competition: “The BIG Awards have become a hugely important celebration of everything that makes the independent garage sector special.
“Moving to a new time of year and a new venue gives us the opportunity to create an even bigger occasion, while continuing to shine a light on the fantastic businesses and individuals who work tirelessly across our industry.
“The BIG Awards are always a highlight of the industry calendar, and I would encourage every garage and individual who is proud of what they do to put themselves forward.
“It is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the people, passion and professionalism behind the independent sector and celebrate the achievements that deserve recognition.”
Beyond an evening of networking, taking part offers practical commercial value for independent businesses.
Earning a shortlist nomination or taking home a trophy provides concrete third-party validation that workshops can leverage locally, building trust with local motorists, bolstering technician recruitment, and celebrating apprentice milestones.
Workshop owners, staff, and technicians can review category criteria and submit entries directly via the IGA BIG Awards portal.
