SMMT: UK aftermarket innovators put export growth in gear at Automechanika Frankfurt
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SMMT's UK Pavilion highlights the breadth of British automotive
aftermarket expertise, connecting international buyers with leading
suppliers, innovators and technical specialists at Europe's largest
aftermarket expo. UK-built auto components worth some £7 billion
are exported worldwide every year, with British aftermarket
expertise helping customers around the globe keep vehicles safe,
efficient and roadworthy. The Pavilion will serve as a global
business hub, building...Request free
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Frankfurt, Germany, Monday 7 September 2026 Britain's world-class automotive aftermarket expertise is on show at Automechanika Frankfurt this week, as the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) brings together some of Britain's most innovative companies on a UK Pavilion to connect with international buyers, forge new partnerships, and showcase automotive innovation. Taking place from 812 September, the trade show is Europe's largest automotive aftermarket exhibition, providing a global platform for UK businesses to demonstrate the breadth of their capability across the sector. The UK Pavilion, located in Hall 5.1, Block D80, Stand E77, offers international visitors direct access to businesses supplying products and services across every stage of a vehicle's lifecycle, from replacement parts and braking systems to advanced diagnostics, electrification expertise and specialist engineering support including emerging vehicle technology. The Pavilion generated almost 1,000 global business connections and partnerships worth an estimated £3.9 million at the last Frankfurt show in 2024, underlining its value as a hub for international trade and collaboration.1 That international opportunity is supported by the strength of the wider UK automotive sector. UK-built automotive components worth some £7 billion are exported annually, with suppliers serving global vehicle manufacturers, distributors, repair networks and specialist markets.2 As vehicles become increasingly connected, electrified and software-defined, the demands placed on the aftermarket continue to evolve. Keeping modern fleets operating safely, efficiently and sustainably requires specialist technical expertise, advanced diagnostic capability, repair and manufacturing skills, alongside access to the latest vehicle and battery technologies. The UK is well positioned to meet that demand. Home to one of the world's most diverse vehicle markets, the sector supports more than 80 brands and more than 450 models currently on sale across all vehicle segments. Meanwhile, one in 22 vehicles in use is now zero emission, equivalent to more than 1.79 million cars and more than 120,000 vans, trucks and buses on UK roads.3 This growing vehicle complexity is driving demand for specialist tools, parts, technical services and training, areas in which British businesses are increasingly supporting customers across domestic and international markets. Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, The UK aftermarket is built on quality, reliability and innovation, with a deep and diverse supplier base delivering cutting-edge solutions around the world to keep vehicles safe, efficient and roadworthy. Automechanika Frankfurt provides an unrivalled opportunity for international buyers and partners to discover that capability, meeting trusted British businesses and building new partnerships that support safer, cleaner and increasingly advanced mobility around the world. Automechanika Frankfurt welcomed more than 107,000 visitors and 4,100 exhibitors from 76 countries in 2024, reinforcing its position as one of the world's most important automotive trade exhibitions. The 2026 UK Pavilion features:
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