Automechanika coming to Birmingham

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is jointly launching Automechanika Birmingham in partnership with the people behind the well known portfolio of vehicle parts shows – Messe Frankfurt. The first Automechanika Birmingham is set to take place at the NEC from 7 to 9 June 2016.

According to the partners, the launch of Automechanika Birmingham in the UK “reflects the vibrant state of automotive manufacturing in Britain – increasingly recognised as a centre of engineering excellence”. The decision to launch the show is also said to reflect the fact that vehicle production in the UK is set to reach all-time record levels in the next few years and the British supply chain is responding to the opportunity to expand. Recent figures show domestic suppliers increased sales to UK vehicle makers by 19 per cent last year. Significant potential still remains, however, with the scope for supplier growth valued at some £4 billion.

The show, which has been licensed to Forest Exhibitions Ltd. by Messe Frankfurt Exhibitions GmbH, is expected to play host to around 250 exhibiting companies and 5,000 trade visitors.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The launch of Automechanika Birmingham is a tremendous vote of confidence in the British automotive industry, and a reflection of its global competitiveness. Automechanika Birmingham will help British companies promote their credentials and enable them to seize the significant opportunities arising from the renaissance in UK vehicle manufacturing. SMMT looks forward to hosting a high-profile event that will help support jobs and growth in the sector, and broaden the UK’s international appeal.”

Detlef Braun, Messe Frankfurt’s Member of the Executive Board, added: “This is the first event in the company’s successful history of international development to be held by Messe Frankfurt in the United Kingdom. We have conducted extensive research at our Frankfurt show, which informed us that there was a huge appetite for an event which focuses on the buoyant UK automotive sector. In SMMT we have a strong supporter to help us deliver an exceptional event.”