GCA’s Our Aftermarket Series Continues with Mike Smallbone

Glen Callum Associates (GCA) has released the latest episode in its Our Aftermarket video series on its YouTube channel, featuring a candid and inspiring conversation with Mike Smallbone, one of the most recognisable and respected voices in the UK automotive aftermarket.

With a career spanning more than 45 years, Mike’s story begins with humble origins. Leaving school at 15 with no formal qualifications and a stammer that knocked his confidence, Mike nearly walked away from his first job interview. But thanks to a second chance offered by a Halfords store manager, he found his entry into the trade and never looked back.

His journey through the sector has taken him from retail and motor factoring roles to leadership positions at Cafco, Allparts Automotive, the UK Parts Alliance, and the IAAF. Today, Mike continues to contribute through his consultancy, Aftermarket Business Solutions, and as a brand ambassador for names like VARTA and Mahle.

In the interview, Mike reflects on the value the aftermarket has brought to his life, from a fulfilling career to lifelong friendships and shares his passion for helping others access the same opportunities.

“The industry gave me everything; a career, a standard of living, and above all, a chance,” he says. “It’s all about knowledge and attitude. We can train people on the rest, but attitude is where it starts.”

Mike also speaks passionately about the need for the sector to modernise how it engages the next generation. From social media outreach to better messaging around the tech-driven nature of today’s vehicle diagnostics, he urges the industry to meet young people where they are.

“There’s still a perception that the aftermarket is just about fixing cars, but the truth is it’s evolved massively. We need digital communicators, data analysts, diagnostics specialists, we need people with a range of skills that go far beyond the workshop.”

The Our Aftermarket campaign, now several episodes in, aims to reshape public perceptions of the sector and shine a light on the many career routes it offers; from sales and supply chain to marketing, training, and tech.

Glen Shepherd, Director of GCA and host of the series, said: “Mike’s story is the perfect example of why this campaign matters. His honesty, humour, and depth of experience make this episode one of the most powerful yet. It proves the aftermarket is not just a job it’s a career, a community, and a platform for growth.”