IGA Donates £10,000 to Ben Automotive Charity at BIG Awards 2024

At the 2024 British Independent Garage (BIG) Awards, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) proudly announced a generous donation of £10,000 to Ben, the automotive industry charity. Ben provides essential support to the people of the automotive industry, providing support for life for them and their family dependents.

Stuart James, CEO of the IGA, commented “We are honoured to support Ben and the incredible work they do for our industry. As independent garages, we know how challenging this sector can be, and Ben’s efforts to provide much-needed care and support are invaluable. This donation is our way of giving back to a charity that continuously uplifts the automotive community.”

The donation was a highlight of the evening, which celebrated the achievements of independent garages across the UK. Ben’s work directly impacts many people within the industry, enhancing their health and wellbeing through its free and confidential online self-help, helpline and support services.

Matt Wigginton, Director of Partnerships, Engagement & Income at Ben, said: “Ben is on a mission to help more people each year; three times as many by 2030. We know this is a bold ambition, but one we can achieve with the help of our industry. We can’t thank the IGA enough for their generosity and, together, we will support people in our industry when they face life’s toughest challenges. Support from businesses, and their employees, helps ensure Ben is always there for those who need us, and the IGA’s donation will make a life-changing difference.”

For more information about Ben and the charity’s services, visit https://ben.org.uk.

Press Contact:
Shannon Mee
Communications Officer
Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538 350
Email: shannon.mee@rmif.co.uk

About Ben:
Ben is the charity dedicated to supporting the people of the automotive industry, providing support for life for them and their family dependents.

Ben supports individuals to navigate through life’s challenges, empowering them to make positive, lasting change. Ben works with people to improve their lives by enhancing their health and wellbeing through its free and confidential online self-help, helpline and support services.

Ben provides life-changing support to those facing crisis as well as helping them prevent crisis. Ben’s support empowers people to be more in control of managing their health and wellbeing to help them live well, think well, feel well and work well. Ben’s support is tailored and relevant to the needs of the individual, based on a wide range of support options and addressing every aspect of a person’s life. Visit www.ben.org.uk.

For further information, please contact:

Leila Moss-Kelly
Communications, Content & Impact Manager, Ben
leila.moss-kelly@ben.org.uk
Direct dial: 01344 298 126

Celebrating the Winners of the 2024 British Independent Garage Awards

We are proud to announce the winners of the 2024 British Independent Garage Awards, which took place on Friday evening in a celebration of excellence showcasing the best of the independent garage sector. This prestigious event, hosted by Mark Durden-Smith, brought together some of the finest independent garages, suppliers, and professionals who continue to raise the bar for service and innovation in the sector.

This year’s award winners took home a share of £50,000 worth of prizes, with each award winner receiving a £1,000 cash prize from the IGA.

Award Winners

We congratulate all the winners across the categories:

Supplier of the Year: Euro Car Parts
Garage Management System of the Year: TechMan
Eco Garage of the Year: C R Allen and Sons
Marketing Strategy of the Year: CCM
Best Newcomer Award: Bear and Bee Garage Ltd
Business Improvement Award: Mechanic Man
Training and Development Award: Stourbridge Automotive Ltd
Community Hero Award: Westgate Tyres
Customer Service Award: Mereworth Motors
Consumer Choice Award: Holmer Green Service Centre
Innovation Award: Shaikly Motor Company
Specialist Garage of the Year: The MINI Repair Shop
Independent Used Car Retailer of the Year: Available Car
Small Independent Garage of the Year: Oldfields Garage Services Ltd
Large Independent Garage of the Year: Hillclimb Garage
British Independent Garage of the Year: Shaikly Motor Company

A special thanks to our sponsors, whose generous support made this evening possible. We extend our deepest appreciation to Garage Equipment Association, MILS, HEVRA, Eurorepar, Solera Autodata, 1Tec, Euro Car Parts, BMTA Trust, Partners&, DVSA, NCS, Gallagher, Solera Cap HPI, Snap-On, OPUS IVS, Spiral and Allianz. Their contributions underscore the importance of recognising talent and promoting excellence within the independent garage community.

Stuart James, CEO of the Independent Garage Association (IGA), expressed his pride in the achievements of the winners and the importance of independent garages to the community. He remarked:

“The level of talent and commitment displayed this year has been nothing short of exceptional. Independent garages play a vital part in the economy, and these awards highlight the crucial role they play in keeping the industry thriving. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists”

The British Independent Garage Awards 2024 has once again showcased the innovation, dedication, and exceptional service of the UK’s independent garages. We are excited to see what the future holds for these outstanding professionals.

Notes to editors:

Press Contact:

Stefan Wesley

Communications and Marketing Manager

Independent Garage Association

Phone: 01788 538359

Email: stefan.wesley@rmif.co.uk

DVSA Show Support for Independent Garages at the BIG Awards 2024

We are excited to announce a significant development for the BIG Awards 2024. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has extended their support to the British Independent Garage of the Year (BIG) Awards, emphasising the importance of excellence and innovation in the independent automotive sector.

“At DVSA we’re really happy to be supporting the celebration of this important sector at the Big Awards 2024. Great customer service from independent garages must be applauded, as it helps customers trust the expert safety advice that garages give out to the public on a daily basis. Improving the standards in an already impressive sector will benefit everyone and DVSA is proud to be a part of it.” Says Neil Barlow, Head of MOT Policy at DVSA.

This support represents a pivotal step in recognising and promoting the vital role independent garages play in maintaining road safety and vehicle standards. The DVSA’s involvement brings a wealth of expertise that will significantly enhance the impact of the BIG Awards.

Stuart James, CEO of the Independent Garage Association, expressed his gratitude for DVSA’s sponsorship, stating, “DVSA’s support not only validates the hard work and dedication of these businesses but also highlights the critical role they play in ensuring vehicle safety and reliability. We are thrilled to have the support of DVSA for the BIG Awards 2024.”

We look forward to working closely with the DVSA to celebrate independent garages’ achievements, and promote excellence within the industry and impact the standards and successes of the independent garage sector nationwide.

For more information about the Independent Garage Awards BIG Awards 2024, please visit https://bit.ly/BIGAwards24

ENDS –

NOTES TO EDITORS –

About the Independent Garage Association
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is the largest and most prominent representative body in the independent garage sector, offering advice, support, and advocacy for independent garages across the UK. The IGA is committed to ensuring high standards of service and professionalism within the industry. For more information, visit www.independentgarageassociation.co.uk.

Announcing the Finalists for the British Independent Garage (BIG) Awards 2024

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is thrilled to announce the finalists for the prestigious BIG Awards 2024. This year’s finalists have demonstrated outstanding excellence in their respective categories, showcasing the very best in the independent garage sector.

Finalists by Category

Best Newcomer, Sponsored By Autodata

Bear and Bee Garage Ltd
Boby Auto
Boss Tuning Ltd
CB Automotive
DB Car Doctor Ltd
T&E Autolec

Business Improvement, Sponsored by 1TEC Auto Hub

AAK Autos
Bryngwyn Service Station
Mechanic Man
Tytherleigh Vehicle Electrics Ltd

Community Hero, Sponsored by BMTA Trust

Britannia MOT & Repair Centre Ltd
C R Allen and Sons
Holmer Green Service Centre
Segensworth Automobiles Ltd
Westbury Garage Shrewsbury Ltd
Westgate Tyres

Consumer Choice, Sponsored by DVSA

ACC UK Ltd
Amor Auto Solutions
Bakers Garage
Holmer Green Service Centre
Mouths Motor Company

Customer Service, Sponsored by Partners &

Carite Service Centre Ltd
Hillclimb Garage
LM Motor Clinic
Mereworth Motors
Moulton Main Garage Ltd
Sandles Car Supermarket
SML Motorsport & Vehicle Repairs

Eco Garage of the Year, Sponsored by HEVRA

C R Allen and Sons
eDub Services Ltd
Segensworth Automobiles Ltd
Stourbridge Automotive Ltd

Garage Management System of the Year, Sponsored by MILS

Autowork Online
Aztech Garage Master Pro
GA4
Garage Data Systems Ltd
Garage Hive
Techman

Independent Used Car Retailer of the Year, Sponsored by CAP HPI

Available Car
German Autocentre Cars
LM Motor Company
Melbury Motor Company
Sandles Car Supermarket

Innovation Award, Sponsored TBC

Bee Cool ACS Ltd
eDub Services Ltd
Shaikly Motor Company

Large Independent Garage of the Year, Sponsored by OPUS IVS

CCM
Carmaster UK Ltd
Central Garage (Lichfield) Ltd
German Autocentre
Hillclimb Garage
Shaikly Motor Company
Stourbridge Automotive Ltd
Uckfield Motor Services

Marketing Strategy of the Year, Sponsored by Eurorepar

AAK Autos
AES York Ltd
CCM
Segensworth Automobiles Ltd
XL Motors

Small Independent Garage of the Year, Sponsored by Snap-On

Britannia MOT & Repair Centre Ltd
BTN Automotive Ltd
Holmer Green Service Centre
Maitland Motors
Oldfields Garage Services Ltd
The Garage Shefford Ltd
The Garage Warmington

Specialist Garage of the Year, Sponsored by Gallagher

Classic Car Mechanic Ltd
New Barn Cars
Ristes Motor Co Ltd
The MINI Repair Shop
Weissach UK Limited

Supplier of the Year, Sponsored by GEA

APD Car Parts
EU Ltd
Euro Car Parts
GSF Car Parts
Motor Parts Direct

Training and Development, Sponsored by Euro Car Parts

CCM
Central Garage (Lichfield) Ltd
Hillclimb Garage
Shaikly Motor Company

Stourbridge Automotive Ltd

Being named a finalist in the BIG Awards is a significant achievement that highlights the hard work, dedication, and excellence of the independent garages. It not only validates their efforts but also enhances their reputation within the industry and among consumers.

Attending the BIG Awards is an excellent opportunity for networking, learning, and celebrating the successes within the industry. It’s a chance to connect with peers, share best practices, and gain insights into the latest trends and innovations.

The BIG Awards spotlight the high standards and exceptional service provided by independent garages. This event underscores the vital role these businesses play in the automotive industry and helps to promote trust and confidence among consumers.

Stuart James, CEO of the Independent Garage Association, expressed his gratitude: “We are delighted to see so many deserving finalists for this year’s BIG Awards. Their commitment to excellence and customer service sets a high standard for the entire industry. I would like to extend my thanks to all of the 2024 entrants and our sponsors for their support and participation. Together, we continue to drive the independent garage sector forward.”

Join Us

Celebrate with us and witness the recognition of the best in the business. Secure your tickets now for the BIG Awards 2024 and be part of this fantastic event.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please click here

Press Contact:

Stefan Wesley
Communications and Marketing Manager
Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538359
Email: stefan.wesley@rmif.co.uk

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