The inaugural Automechanika Birmingham event has proved to be a big success, attracting visitor numbers far in excess of expectations and overwhelmingly positive feedback from exhibitors.

Planes into Birmingham airport from Ireland have featured a very high percentage of people from all aspects of the Irish motor trade, with garages, bodyshops, motor factors and distributors all represented in force.

As well as the highly successful exhibition the seminar programme has also proved especially popular with visitors keen to get information on all the latest and future market developments as well as practical advice from expert speakers. The show has also featured many celebrity appearances from the likes of Mark Webber and Susie Perry from the F1 world and TV presenter Rachel Reilly.

Exhibitors have been delighted with both the volume and quality of the visitors.

Danny Kirby from Irish company 247 Lighting’s Danny Kirby, commented: “It’s been a fantastic experience so far, it’s really highlighted our brand and it’s great to see 247 lighting among the exhibitors. We’ve met some really important business contacts and look forward to coming back next year.”

Manbat’s Marketing Manager, Myles Pemberton said, “The best thing about exhibiting at Automechanika Birmingham is the opportunities we’ve received because everyone is here and everyone’s open to talking business and creating new business and relationships. We’ve certainly seen a lot of people interested in our stand because we have so many great brands such as Numax, Lucas and US Batteries and people are interested in our company because we’re also part of Ecobat, the world’s leading producer and recycler of lead, there are so many different connections and people to meet, it’s really exciting.”

TecAlliance’s General Manager, Shaun Greasley commented, “It’s been a massive success, exactly the sort of event the aftermarket needed and we at TecAlliance have cemented existing business relationships while securing new ones. We had one of our two seminars today, which allowed us to engage with the audience and explain what TecAlliance and the group companies can do for the industry.”

Simon Salloway, head of operations at A1 Motor Stores said, “It’s been a long time since A1 Motor Stores has had the right platform to display its market leading brand suppliers available through our group and also demonstrate the advantages of A1 to possible new members, both accessory retailers and motor factors.”

Adrian Kitchen, Marketing Manager at Apec Braking said, “We are very pleased with the show. There has been a great quality and mix of visitors and we have been able to meet some key contacts, our stand is already booked for 2017.”

In 2017 show organisers say that the event will be 35% larger and also incorporate a major tyre and equipment showcase.