Some 550 independent garage owners, technicians, and aftermarket leaders gathered at The Blend 2026 to share knowledge, strengthen connections and explore ways to tackle commercial, technical, and workforce pressures faced by workshops across the UK and Ireland.
Held on Saturday 10 October, the sold-out conference asked a central question: what do independent garages need to know now to be ready for what’s next? The event combined industry insight with peer-to-peer learning to help owners grow, compete, and deliver better value for customers.
Sessions explored how workshops are actively using AI to triage customer enquiries, automate purchase invoice entry, structure repair data, and cut vehicle inspection turnaround times.
Tim Benson of Oldfields Garage and founder of LiveStandard said: “AI isn’t about replacing human potential; it’s about unlocking it. The real opportunity lies in combining the power of technology with human creativity, expertise and ambition to achieve more than either could alone.”
With Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) data revealing the sector loses two qualified workers for every newcomer gained, workshops waiting to recruit ready-made master technicians face an unsustainable battle.
Evidence presented showed how structured mentoring and practical onboarding make modern apprentices commercially productive on service and inspection ramps within six to 12 months.
Eleanor Baker-Barnes of Apprenticeship Central said: “Apprentices are more than a route into employment; they are an investment in the future.
“By giving emerging talent the opportunity to learn, contribute and grow we’re building the skills, confidence and leadership that tomorrow’s businesses need.”
In an evening keynote address that received a standing ovation, Gary Wood, Managing Director of Intelligent Auto, shared his clinical diagnosis of autism and combined ADHD at age 57, highlighting the importance of recognising different strengths within garage teams.
“For fifty years, I judged myself by what I couldn’t do. Disorganised, easily distracted, scatterbrained,” said Gary. “But nobody ever asked: maybe we just haven’t found what his brain is exceptional at yet?
“We have extraordinary people in our workshops who see things others miss. A business doesn’t need everybody thinking in the exact same way. It needs people whose abilities complement each other. Our brains aren’t broken, they’re just wired differently.”
Delivering the event’s headline keynote, renowned behavioural scientist, author, and Vice Chairman of Ogilvy UK Rory Sutherland explored how customer perception directly influences maintenance decisions.
He urged garage owners to reduce delays and uncertainty for motorists through clearer, more frequent explanations of recommended work, underlining how communication creates trust and helps customers recognise the value of professional support and expertise.
“Real growth comes from seeing opportunities beyond the obvious, recognising the true value of expertise and knowledge and building trust that lasts,” said Rory.
Beyond the conference sessions, The Blend highlighted the strength of the independent garage community, with organisers reporting £18,825 raised for automotive industry charity Ben. The fundraising reflected a shared commitment to supporting the people behind the businesses.
The Blend 2027 will take place at Manchester Central on Saturday 18 September 2027. Super early-bird tickets are available for a limited period and can be secured online at: www.theblend.events.
