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The Blend, the annual conference and networking event for independent garages, has announced its first wave of speakers for 2025 taking place on Saturday 18 October at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham.
The event’s programme is designed to help garage owners tackle business challenges and seize new opportunities.
This year’s lineup features a mix of industry experts, successful garage owners, and managers covering key issues such as mental health, customer service, cybersecurity, and business growth strategies.
Edward Cockill of Uckfield Motor Services will share his personal journey through mental health challenges, offering valuable perspectives on how the industry can foster greater support for those facing similar struggles.
Returning to The Blend, Dean Lomas of DC Lomas will reflect on the rollercoaster of the past two years, unpacking the pressures of rapid business expansion, cash flow hurdles, and the urgent need to bring-in younger talent to secure long-term success.
Emma Lindley from Lindleys Autocentres will turn the spotlight on service advisors, exploring the traits that distinguish truly exceptional front of house staff. She will reveal how they can capitalise on daily opportunities while also strategically planning for sustained growth and customer satisfaction.
Meanwhile, Michael Shaikly of Shaikly Motor Services will delve deeper into customer profiling. By focusing on attracting the right clientele, he explains how garages can create a more profitable and balanced workplace environment.
Danny Trageskes, representing The Motor Ombudsman, will shed light on how Alternative Dispute Resolution offers consumers reassurance and protection during vehicle purchase and ownership, alongside a snapshot of current dispute trends in the UK automotive market.
Prashant Chopra of Autogem will lead a hands-on session addressing the growing significance of Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS). He will focus on how widespread battery failures are causing MOT complications and why this issue is opening fresh opportunities for garages to expand their services.
With cyber-crime an ever-present threat, Laurence Abbott from Autotech Group will caution garage owners about vulnerabilities in their digital defences. Drawing on real-life examples, he’ll provide practical tips to help businesses protect themselves from financial losses and reputational damage.
Jay Wheatley of Absolutely Automotive will offer expert advice on exit planning, stressing the importance of preparing a garage business well in advance of sale. His insights aim to help owners navigate the process smoothly and avoid common pitfalls that can complicate a successful handover.
Alongside individual presentations, The Blend 2025 will feature a panel discussion titled “Partners, Family & Business: The Balancing Act.” Recently highlighted on The Blend Podcast, the session will have Tina Drayson of CCM Garages posing questions about managing family commitments alongside running successful businesses to panel members Kirsty Watson of Autocentre, Claire Cleevely of Cleevely Group, Diana Whetton of PW Auto Repairs, and Samantha Lomas of DC Lomas.
With over 300 delegates expected, independent garage owners are encouraged to secure their place early.
Tickets for The Blend 2025, including the conference and evening event, are priced at £150 plus VAT and can be purchased online here: https://www.theblend.events/tickets. Following event costs, any surplus proceeds will be donated to the automotive charity Ben.
