Messe Frankfurt UK has unveiled the headline sponsors and launch partners for ‘Motorvate’, the Automotive Careers, Skills and Recruitment initiative, running alongside Automechanika Birmingham in June 2025.
Joining forces to tackle the industry’s talent and skills crisis will be Toyota GB, European Tyre Enterprise Limited (ETEL, including Kwik Fit), LKQ Euro Car Parts, Autotech Group and the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).
Additional support will come from Silver Sponsor Castrol Race part of Certas Group, and Supporting Partners Hella, Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT), Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), School of Thought and National Body Repair Association (NBRA).
With the IMI forecasting a sector shortfall of 160,000 by 2031, including the urgent need for 45,800 additional technicians, Motorvate represents a united industry push to inspire the next generation and build a sustainable talent pipeline.
One of Motorvate’s key ambassadors is Gavin White, the founder of Autotech Group and a long-standing advocate for the automotive sector. Gavin was also recently honoured with the IMI’s Outstanding Contribution to the Motor Industry award and named an Honorary Life Member of the NTDA.
He commented: “Without a shadow of a doubt, I believe the opportunity presented by Motorvate is the platform the industry has desperately needed. We have a window of opportunity now to raise this beyond boardroom discussions and insular industry conversations, to pull together and attract, train and retain the talent on offer to us. Anyone serious about this cause needs to support it.”
With Motorvate gaining momentum through the backing of industry heavyweights, Messe Frankfurt UK has called on more businesses to join the initiative. By supporting Motorvate, organisations can actively contribute to addressing the skills and talent crisis that threatens the future of the automotive sector.
Motorvate and Automechanika Birmingham will take place at the Birmingham NEC from 3rd – 5th June 2025 in Hall 17.
