The Refinishing Crew Facebook group is collaborating with Automechanika Birmingham to launch a dedicated hub at next year’s show.
The aim is to break barriers and bring virtual friendships to life, while at the same time providing a single space for refinish experts, manufacturers and suppliers to meet and showcase their latest innovations.
Founded by Auto Spray managing director Sunny Yip, the Refinishing Crew has more than 20,000 online members.
He said: “I’m passionate about getting people together but our members are dotted all around the country so it’s not always possible. We did a show in in 2021, which was a success. Coming out of lockdown everyone was stir crazy so I suggested we all meet up for a beer and a burger. It quickly escalated into a trade show at my shop with14 exhibitors and 100 guests. We did it again the following year and doubled the number of exhibitors and guests.
“The plan was to do it again the following year, but between running a bodyshop, operating a Facebook group and having a family life, I’ve not been able to organise a show myself.
“So collaborating with Automechanika to bring the Facebook group to the show is very exciting. Some people have been in the Refinishing Crew for years and years and have virtual friendships, so getting together will help break barriers.
“We’ll have a curry night the evening before which should be a nice ice-breaker, and we’re already talking with Automechanika about other initiatives. It’s very exciting, I’ve got a great feeling about it.”
Automechanika Birmingham will take place at the NEC in Birmingham from 8-10 June.
Alex Jones, marketing director, said: “We are so grateful that Sunny came to us with this initiative, we’ve worked together in a small capacity over the years to make sure the show delivers a great offering to the community and we’ve always respected how he nurtures and supports everyone in the Refinishing Crew Facebook group.
“The group is fantastic but having the chance to meet someone in person, especially in these challenging times is the cherry on top so the fact we will now have a dedicated space for The Refinishing Crew community to come together, to share experiences and network is fantastic.
“It also offers brands a new way to participate at the show and some brands are even thinking about creating limited addition products to celebrate the collaboration between Automechanika Birmingham and the Refinishing Crew.”
