The importance of community in the aftermarket

In the Aftermarket Voices series of articles, Niterra UK’s marketing manager Becca Knight reflects on some of the conversations she’s had while co-hosting The Spark Inside podcast. In this final article, she looks at inclusivity in the aftermarket and the importance of community. 

The UK aftermarket is changing. But for many, barriers still remain – especially for ethnic minorities and LGBTQ+ professionals. What does it really take to make this sector open to all? 

Jahee Campbell-Brennan, engineer and founder of Wavy Dynamics, shared his journey: “I was applying for jobs but had no motorsport experience, so I started creating content, building knowledge and putting myself out there. Eventually, people started coming to me for work.”  

And racing driver Charlie Martin (Main Image), an LGBTQ+ advocate, is clear on why visibility matters: “Growing up, I didn’t see anyone like me in motorsport. It made me wonder if I belonged. Now I use my platform to show others they can.”  

The aftermarket is built on problem-solving, collaboration and trust – values that only strengthen with diversity. Having a team with different life experiences leads to more innovative ideas and a better understanding of the customers we serve. 

Progress requires action. That might mean rethinking recruitment, offering flexible training, or supporting industry initiatives like Driven By Us or Racing Pride. More voices at the table means better outcomes for the entire trade. 

Encouragingly, initiatives like IMI’s Diversity Task Force and Niterra’s support for inclusive workshops are helping to shift perceptions. When technicians see people like themselves succeed, it builds confidence across the board. The trade becomes more welcoming, and businesses become stronger for it. 

Every garage, factor and aftermarket business has a role to play – whether through mentoring, outreach, or simply making space for different perspectives. Inclusivity isn’t a tick-box exercise; it’s a foundation for a stronger, more sustainable industry. 

Building a community 

The automotive sector is more than an industry – it’s a community. From apprentices to veterans, trackside to trade counters, the shared passion for vehicles creates lasting bonds. And that community is evolving. 

As I highlighted myself on the The Spark Inside podcast, there’s a real sense of pride and trust when you’re part of this automotive aftermarket world. It’s more than fixing cars. It’s being part of something bigger. 

Whether it’s restoring a Mini, mastering diagnostics, or attending your local car meet, what keeps the aftermarket moving isn’t just innovation – it’s connection. 

Phil McGovern, founder of Caffeine & Machine, understands that too: “We built a place where people feel welcome. It doesn’t matter if you’re into classics, drift, bikes or EVs. It’s about sharing the same spark.”  

Jonny Smith, presenter of The Late Brake Show, also reflected on the power of the industry to bring people together when discussing his own passion for classic cars: “They aren’t just old machines.” he said. “They’re stories. They carry history, character and community. We shouldn’t lose that as the industry modernises.” 

Community also means support. In workshops, it’s the colleague who shares a tool or a tip. At events, it’s the shared admiration for a build or a clever fix. For Niterra UK, it’s about showing up with more than just parts. Over five decades, its technical, customer service and sales teams have built long-standing relationships. It sees every motor factor, workshop, technician or apprentice as part of a wider network of mutual success. That sense of belonging helps businesses grow, fosters knowledge-sharing, and reinforces trust across the sector.