A packed Utilita Arena Newcastle during GSF Car Parts' TechFest North 2026, where thousands of garage owners, technicians and automotive aftermarket professionals gathered alongside more than 70 leading suppliers for a day of networking, technical training.
High-performance vehicle displays added to the festival atmosphere at GSF Car Parts' TechFest North.
GSF Car Parts Founder Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia and CEO Steve Horne during TechFest North 2026, the company's largest-ever aftermarket event, held at Newcastle's Utilita Arena.
More than 70 leading suppliers and thousands of garage professionals gathered at Newcastle's Utilita Arena for GSF Car Parts' biggest-ever TechFest.
Organised in partnership with Petrolheadonism, TechFest North brought together more than 70 leading automotive aftermarket suppliers under one roof, creating one of the UK's largest gatherings dedicated to the independent garage sector.
From diagnostics and tooling to replacement parts, workshop equipment and emerging vehicle technologies, attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with the brands helping shape the future of the automotive aftermarket. Throughout the day, visitors took part in live demonstrations, technical discussions, product launches and hands-on experiences designed to provide practical knowledge that could be taken straight back into the workshop.
Unlike many traditional trade events, TechFest North removed the barriers to participation by offering free entry, free parking and complimentary food and refreshments, ensuring independent garages could access valuable training, products and business opportunities without additional cost.
Steve Horne, CEO of GSF Car Parts, said:
"The energy in Newcastle was absolutely incredible, and it proves that the independent garage network is hungry for a completely new kind of trade show. Events of this scale don't just happen. Our team worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life, and I couldn't be prouder of how they delivered.
"We set out to create a platform where real deals get done, where garages can access the best tools and knowledge to future-proof their businesses, and we absolutely smashed it. We are proud of what we've built here, and we're just getting started."
While technical content remained at the heart of the event, TechFest North also demonstrated that industry networking can be engaging, interactive and genuinely enjoyable. A festival-style atmosphere, live entertainment, competitions, exhibitor activations and a display of exciting vehicles helped create an event that stood apart from the traditional trade show model.
For Petrolheadonism, the partnership reflects a shared ambition to bring fresh energy and new audiences into the automotive industry while creating memorable experiences for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The overwhelming attendance and positive feedback from exhibitors and visitors further reinforce TechFest's growing reputation as one of the most important events in the independent garage calendar.
Following the success of Newcastle, attention now turns to the remaining events in the 2026 TechFest programme:
• TechFest Midlands – Thursday 16 July 2026, CBS Arena, Coventry
• TechFest London – Thursday 17 September 2026, Wembley Park, London
Free tickets are available now via GSFTechFest.com.
About GSF Car Parts
GSF Car Parts is one of the UK's leading automotive parts distributors, supplying OE-quality components, garage equipment, diagnostics and technical support through a nationwide branch network. The company serves thousands of independent workshops and automotive professionals across the United Kingdom.
About Petrolheadonism
Petrolheadonism is one of the UK's fastest-growing automotive events and media brands, delivering unique automotive experiences that blend enthusiast culture, live entertainment and industry engagement. Through strategic partnerships and event production, Petrolheadonism helps connect brands, businesses and enthusiasts across the automotive sector.
Media Contacts
GSF Car Parts
Jordan Harvey
Jordan.Harvey@gsfgroup.com
Petrolheadonism
Ciro Ciampi
theoffice@petrolheadonism.com
Ciro Ciampi
Petrolheadonism
email us here
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