IAAF announces award winners at unforgettable ceremony
The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) hosted its 2024 Pride of the Aftermarket Awards on December 5th, celebrating achievements of outstanding individuals and businesses within the automotive aftermarket sector, with a blend of prestigious awards, valuable networking opportunities and an array of entertainment.
The ceremony was nothing short of spectacular, with an electric atmosphere from the moment guests arrived at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Milton Keynes. The event kicked off in grand style, with outgoing IAAF President Craig McCracken and Chief Executive Mark Field leading a lively and entertaining entrance that set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
As the excitement built, attendees were treated to a surprise performance by a Freddy Mercury tribute act, followed by an energetic set from a group of singing policemen, who had the crowd on their feet dancing and celebrating the spirit of the aftermarket.
Guests also enjoyed to a stand-out performance from stand-up, Dara Ó Briain, the renowned comedian. Ó Briain’s witty and engaging style provided a unique twist to the evening, ensuring guests enjoyed both a memorable and entertaining experience.
Beyond the fun and laughter, the event also held poignant moments, particularly as IAAF paid tribute to the late Claire Lomas, a former keynote speaker whose powerful address in 2023 continues to inspire the industry. Claire’s passing earlier in 2024 left a significant void, but the industry came together to make generous charitable donations in her memory, honouring her legacy and passion for resilience and perseverance.
To round off the evening, IAAF announced its awards, with this year’s deserving winners included:
Service Supplier of the Year, sponsored by Magneti Marelli
· Winner: Glen Callum Associates
· Highly Commended: Elcome
CV Supplier of the Year, sponsored by Boswell Insurance
· Winner: Hella
· Highly Commended: TMD Friction
CV Distributor of the Year, sponsored by Fras-le
· Winner: Digraph
· Highly Commended: 7-2-7 Truck Parts
Product of the Year, sponsored by Arnold Clark Autoparts
· Winner: SMP Europe
· Highly Commended: Banner Batteries
· Outstanding Garage Contribution, sponsored by Messe Frankfurt
· Winner: Oldfields Garage
Car Supplier of the Year (Innovation Award), sponsored by Impression PR
· Winner: Ring & Osram
· Highly Commended: MAHLE Aftermarket UK
Car Supplier of the Year (Service Award), sponsored by Elcome
· Winner: Juratek
· Highly Commended: First Line Ltd.
Car Distributor of the Year (up to 10 branches), sponsored by Bosch
· Winner: Melksham Motor Spares
· Highly Commended: Autosupplies Group
Car Distributor of the Year (10+ branches), sponsored by WAI Global
· Winner: Motor Parts Direct
· Highly Commended: GSF Car Parts
Outstanding Achievement of the Year Award, sponsored by Glen Callum Associates
· Winners: Bob Ackroyd and Nigel Morgan
Field said: "This event truly showcased the brilliance and resilience of our industry and the incredible talent and dedication within it. I’m immensely proud to be part of this thriving community, where innovation, unity and generosity shine through, especially as we honour the achievements of our deserving winners and remember those we’ve lost. The IAAF remains committed to supporting and advocating for the growth of the aftermarket, and we look forward to even more success in 2025."