UK’s Top Garages, Technicians and Apprentices shine at 2025 Top Awards

The 2025 Top Awards concluded in spectacular style on Saturday 15 November, bringing together the UK’s leading garages, technicians, and apprentices for a day of fierce competition, innovation, and celebration.

At Delphi Academy in Warwick, Top Garage finalists faced their final in-person assessments, presenting their businesses, leadership strategies, and customer service ethos to a panel of expert judges. Meanwhile, Top Technician and Top Apprentice finalists tackled demanding, timed practical challenges designed to test technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and professional conduct under real-world pressures.

Trade visitors from across the UK were invited to experience the finals firsthand, exploring the Delphi Academy workshop floor, meeting Top Awards sponsors, and discovering the latest tools, products, and services from Snap-on, Delphi, LKQ Euro Car Parts, TOPDON, JLM Lubricants, VARTA, Garage Hive, Garage Services Online, and Mechanic Mindset.

The event also featured a popular on-site burger van, where visitors could enjoy a meal while supporting the automotive industry charity Ben, with all proceeds helping to fund vital wellbeing initiatives for those working in the sector.

This year marked a milestone with the introduction of Top Apprentice, shining a spotlight on the next generation of UK automotive talent.

Speaking at the event, Colin Denton, Head Judge for Top Apprentice and Chief Executive of the North London Garages Group Training Association, said: “When we were approached about adding Top Apprentice to the Top Awards, it immediately struck me as a brilliant idea.

“Apprentices in the UK didn’t have anything like this at scale, and it’s been inspiring to see the level of skill and professionalism on display today. Congratulations to the finalists. You’ve shown what’s possible when talent meets dedication and great mentorship.”

The day’s excitement culminated at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Coventry, where the gala dinner and awards ceremony celebrated winners across all categories, including Top Technician, Top Garage, Top Apprentice, the Service Advisor Award, and the BEN Health & Wellbeing Award, recognising excellence throughout the sector.

The evening was a deeply emotional occasion, reflecting months of intense preparation and competition. Finalists savoured the recognition of their hard work while cheering on their peers, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual support. Across all categories, the room buzzed with pride, underscoring just how much the Top Awards mean to those who dedicate themselves to excellence in the UK automotive industry.

Ryan Fuller, Managing Director of the Top Awards, said: “This year’s finalists have demonstrated outstanding talent and commitment. Top Apprentice added a fantastic new dimension to the awards, highlighting the emerging talent that will drive the future of our industry. Congratulations to all our winners. You’ve truly set the ‘Top’ benchmark for excellence.”

Entries for the 2026 Top Awards will be open in January. Garage owners, technicians and apprentices can register their interest in competing here: https://aftermarketonline.net/register-your-interest/. For highlights, interviews, and behind-the-scenes coverage, follow the Top Awards social media channels.