Messe Frankfurt UK has launched ‘Motorvate’, a new show concept to run alongside Automechanika Birmingham 2025.
The showcase for Automotive Careers, Skills and Recruitment will take place in Hall 17 of the NEC in Birmingham between 3-5 June. Motorvate is a dedicated initiative for Automotive Careers, Skills and Recruitment, with the backing of the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) and headline sponsors that include Autotech Group, European Tyre Enterprise Limited (ETEL), LKQ Euro Car Parts and Toyota GB.
With the IMI predicting a sector shortfall of 160,000 by 2031, including a need for 45,800 additional technicians, the urgency for Motorvate is clear. It will be the destination for automotive’s next generation, showcasing the sector’s tech-driven edge and attracting a diverse crowd, from college students and career-changers to industry employees ready to take on new challenges, as well as the influential garage and bodyshop owners who frequent Automechanika Birmingham.
Motorvate to help build skills
Building on the success of Automechanika Birmingham’s Student Programme, the event’s centre piece, the Ignite Arena, will keep the energy high, featuring live talks, celebrity guests and lively competitions alongside entertainment, music and activities from sponsors.
Exhibitors within the dedicated area will highlight career paths, as well as training and recruitment options, connecting attendees with some of the UK’s most forward-thinking employers in the automotive aftermarket.
“With Motorvate, we are fully committed to driving meaningful action in the automotive industry’s talent and skills arena,” commented Simon Albert, MD of Messe Frankfurt UK. “As a not-for-profit initiative, Motorvate is our way of stepping up to support the sector we are so passionate about, connecting ambitious candidates and professionals with industry-leading employers and career pathways.
“We are going to co-ordinate the collective industry approach to tackle this issue head-on. Our partnership with the IMI and investment in features like the Ignite Arena mean we can offer an event experience like nothing else in the industry.
“We have listened to the calls for solutions to the skills gap and, while we have addressed this in many ways – through our conference programmes and dedicated Student Programmes – Motorvate places it right where it belongs, at the top of the national agenda in 2025. We cannot wait to bring it all to life, we are investing in the sector’s future and welcome everyone to be part of the solution!”
Experienced ambassador
Messe Frankfurt UK has enlisted Gavin White as an Ambassador for Motorvate, embracing his experience and passion for the industry to deliver this initiative. Gavin, as the founder of Autotech Group and a highly active advocate for the industry over many years, was the worthy recipient of the IMI’s Outstanding Contribution to the Motor Industry earlier this year and more recently became an Honorary Life Member of the NTDA.
“Without a shadow of a doubt, I firmly believe that Motorvate offers the platform our industry has long needed to tackle the persistent challenges around talent and skills,” added White. “Leveraging Automechanika Birmingham, the UK’s flagship event for the automotive sector, provides an unparalleled opportunity to address this critical issue head-on. It is a chance unlike anything I have seen before to drive meaningful change in our industry.”
Further announcements regarding the headline partners for Motorvate will be shared in the coming weeks.
