Episode 9 - Reflecting on the automotive aftermarket in 2025

Sponsored by BM Catalysts

As we step into a new year, it's the perfect time to reflect on the past twelve months in the automotive industry. In our latest episode, we take a deep dive into the highs and lows of 2025, sharing memorable moments from events like Automechanika and CarFest that helped shape our journey.

Transformative

This year has been nothing short of transformative for us at Garage Talk. We started with a modest 1,000 subscribers and have skyrocketed to over 51,000, an achievement that feels surreal. Our discussions have evolved, attracting not just enthusiasts of aftermarket parts but also motorsport fans, thanks to our exclusive insights and interviews.

Silverstone

One of the standout moments of the year was our visit to Silverstone, where we had the opportunity to cover F1 cars in the museum and gain exclusive insights into Pirelli's new tyres. This not only boosted our visibility but also helped us connect with a wider audience. The feedback from our listeners and viewers has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing our belief that we are on the right path.

Community

We also made strides in fostering community engagement. Our attendance at various automotive events allowed us to build relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, and garage owners. The support from the industry has been encouraging, and it’s clear that our efforts to promote positive news are resonating.

"It's felt a lot different from last year…I feel we're respected a bit more and we're valued a bit more."

Challenges

The year was not without its challenges, particularly in addressing the ongoing skills shortage in the automotive sector. We’ve discussed recruitment strategies and the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all, including women in the industry. It’s crucial that we continue these conversations to ensure a diverse and inclusive aftermarket.

Looking ahead

As we look ahead to 2026, we are excited about the opportunities that lie before us. We plan to launch new initiatives and continue our mission of sharing stories from the heart of the industry. If one person joins this industry because of Garage Talk, we’ve done our job.

🎧 Listen now on Podbean, or search for Garage Talk Unwrapped - The Podcast on any of your favourite podcast streaming platforms.
💡 Sponsored by: BM Catalysts