The 2018 bodyshop Event and Awards will return to the Hilton Metropole, Birmingham on the 27-28 September with more interaction and entertainment than ever before.

Following a hugely successful 2017, which included great feedback from across the board such as ‘the best networking event in years’, the 2018 event will follow the same popular structure – an informal welcome dinner on the Thursday night; an interactive exhibition with seminar sessions on the Friday; proceeded by a champagne reception and three course awards dinner in the evening.

Plans are now underway for another successful event and nominations for the awards now open – this year seeing the addition of Apprentice MET.

bodyshop editor, Mark Hadaway said, ‘we’re really hitting the ground running in the build up to this year’s event and we are really excited in once again pushing the boundaries in terms of what the event has to offer the industry. New award categories, tweaks to the format and, of course, a spectacular stage show are all things we will be bringing to the table. But, as always, it’s the industry’s event and we want as many people involved as possible to ensure it really does bring to bear just how great the accident repair sector really is.’

To date, the event has attracted the backing of sponsors: AkzoNobel, Audatex, CAPS, NBRA, Sikkens, Symach, Thatcham Research, VBRA and Vizion with more to be released over the coming weeks.

Kick-starting the event in a relaxed and social setting, the welcome dinner provides the perfect warm up to the occasion. With the drinks flowing and an informal dinner to enjoy, the welcome dinner is a great chance to socialise and say hello to some familiar faces.
After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast to kick-start the day, Friday will be full of interaction via exhibits, technical talks and seminar sessions. Guests will be free to roam throughout the day, networking with likeminded individuals.

The vehicle manufacturer sessions were a huge hit at BE2017 and will make a return this year – refreshed, reformatted and offering a different perspective for attendees to enjoy. Back by popular demand, the seminar sessions will offer insightful and engaging content from experts within the field. Under the banner: conversation – education – innovation, guests will have access to a wealth of information, leaving better informed and connected, and ready to face future challenges.

Friday evening promises to be a night to remember, following the French inspired theme of Moulin Rouge. Oozing glitz and glamour, this is the perfect setting for a celebration as we recognise the brightest lights within the industry. A champagne reception will get the party started and is a great opportunity for guests to relax into an evening of black-tie sophistication.

Nominations for all awards are now open and must be received by
6 April 2018.