Entries open for The Blend Awards 2025

Independent garages across the UK and Ireland are invited to step into the spotlight as The Blend Awards 2025 opens for entries. Held on Saturday 18th October 2025 at The Eastside Rooms, Birmingham, the awards ceremony will follow an insightful day of expert-led talks and networking at The Blend’s 2025 conference.

"The awards are always a special way to round off the day," said Ray Dilsons, Event Director at The Blend. "It’s our chance to recognise the individuals and businesses driving progress in our industry, following a day of valuable learning, idea-sharing, and connection-building with others passionate about raising standards in the independent garage sector."

The Garage of the Year award brings a chance for independent garages to showcase their excellence in staff welfare, customer service, operational innovation, and community impact. This prestigious award is divided into three categories: garages with 1-4 staff, garages with 5+ staff, and multilocation operations, ensuring fair recognition for businesses of all sizes.

Meanwhile, the Staff Recognition Award honours the unsung heroes – individuals who go above and beyond in their personal and professional growth. This award celebrates those who overcome challenges with resilience, using their skills to drive the success of their garage and playing a key role in its ongoing development.

Ensuring a fair and impartial judging process, entries will be anonymised and assessed by a distinguished panel of industry judges, including Hayley Pells, Policy and Public Affairs Lead at the Institute of the Motor Industry, Andy Crook of Atomic Success, and Mike Ruff, host of The Blend Podcast.

Last year’s winners included Shaikly Motor Company, named Garage of the Year in the multilocation category for its outstanding service and business practices. Intelligent Auto LTD and Lawson AutoTech won in the 1-4 staff and 5+ staff categories, respectively, while Laura Guild of Lawson AutoTech was honoured with the Staff Recognition Award for her remarkable professional and personal growth.

The deadline for entries to The Blend Awards 2025 is Friday, 8th August at 23:59. Finalists will be revealed on 8th September, with the winners announced at the Blend Awards on 18th October in Birmingham.