Automotive Management Live 2025 showcases disruptive innovations and electrification trends at NEC
Automotive Management Live 2025 officially opened its doors today at 9.30am at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, marking a pivotal event in the UK’s motor retail calendar. Hosted in Hall 10, this show positions itself as the leading platform for franchised and independent dealers, drawing a significant crowd of over 1,200 senior automotive retail professionals, including representation from more than 70 AM100 companies.
Supported by premium sponsor Phyron, the event showcases nearly 100 leading industry suppliers such as Autotrader, Citnow, Motors, and Keyloop, who are highlighting their latest innovations aimed at helping dealerships navigate today’s fast-evolving automotive landscape. The exhibition floor buzzes with activity as these suppliers demonstrate technological advancements and service solutions designed to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.
A key feature of Automotive Management Live 2025 is its comprehensive conference agenda, divided into three focused theatres: Strategy and Leadership, Operations, and Technology & Innovation. Over 30 industry experts are delivering 15 sessions that delve into critical topics like artificial intelligence (AI), electric vehicle strategy, used car profitability, customer experience, and cybersecurity threats, a particularly pressing concern for dealerships as they protect against rising cybercriminal activity. The agenda is designed to help dealer group leaders formulate strategies for sustained growth, manage workforce motivation, and plan for the complexities introduced by the new motor finance commissions redress scheme.
Among the highlights is the return of E-Street, a dedicated mini motor show celebrating the latest in emerging and electric vehicle innovations. Confirmed exhibitors include electric vehicle manufacturers Xpeng, Denza, and Farizon, with home charger specialist Ohme sponsoring the feature. Ohme is also providing expert advice on home charger solutions, helping retailers support plug-in vehicle customers more effectively, a crucial offering as electric vehicle adoption continues to increase.
Responding to the demands of busy professionals, this year introduces the Dealer Workspace, a dedicated area designed to keep delegates connected and productive throughout the event. Sponsored by AION, this space offers free WiFi, phone and laptop charging facilities, and private pod spaces ideal for quick calls or email check-ins. This thoughtful addition aims to ease the challenge of being away from the dealership for a day, allowing delegates to maximise the benefits of attending the show without losing touch with daily operations.
The NEC itself offers a modern and accessible venue, with extensive facilities for electric vehicles including 150 7kW chargers and 30 ultra-rapid 300kW DC chargers, acknowledging the event’s focus on new energy technologies. Parking can be pre-booked online for convenience, supporting attendees travelling by car.
Automotive Management Live 2025 is a crucial event for decision-makers in the motor retail sector, providing a rare environment to network with peers, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and explore real-world solutions tailored to current challenges. The show is free to attend, with on-the-day registration available, ensuring widespread access to the sector’s latest thinking and innovation.
Exhibitors, such as Evolution Funding, highlight how the event supports business growth in areas like used car sales by offering quicker finance approvals and smoother administrative processes to enhance customer satisfaction and profitability. This underscores the show’s role not just in showcasing products but also in fostering practical, business-improving partnerships and solutions.
For dealers looking to shape their future strategies amid rapid industry change, including the rise of AI, electric vehicles, and cybersecurity risks, Automotive Management Live 2025 offers a vital source of insight and connection. As Tim Rose, Automotive Management editor, noted, the event truly captures the energy, innovation, and resilience of UK motor retail, making it a must-attend for those committed to thriving in a dynamic marketplace.