2023 Automechanika Johannesburg
By Austin Gamble
September heralds the changing of seasons, and the 2023 version of Automechanika Johannesburg brought welcoming warm winds to the JHB Expo Centre, Nasrec, with 670 exhibitors from 18 countries displaying their wares to 5 572 visitors from 38 countries, across two halls and outside displays, covering 10 500 m² - from 5 to 7 September 2023.
Innovation is the name of the game when it comes to Automechanika. Conceived after the cancellation of the 1971 Frankfurt Motor Show, Automechanika 71 came to the rescue of Messe Frankfurt, and is today the world’s largest trade show for the automotive aftermarket, with its satellite shows dominating the global automotive aftermarket show scene. This innovation came through during the 2023 Johannesburg show, with a celebratory bottle of wine carrying through the toasting theme, and a delight for oenophiles. The label gives some vintage words “Dating back to its inception anno 1971, Chateau Automechanika is a symbol of collaboration and success in the global automotive aftermarket. Crafted by our united team, the 2023 vintage of Automechanika Johannesburg marks a significant milestone in quality and innovation. Dominating the automotive landscape, this blend offers unique expressions, reflecting the diverse terrains of our global network. The Automechanika Johannesburg vintage is a full-bodied alliance, crafted in a traditional B2B style, embodying the essence of the automotive services industries. Comprising 75% dedication and 25% innovation, it resonates with notes of “team-spirit” and fine business aromatics”. The labels ends with a toast to its media partners, thanking them for their “unwavering support and the finely-structured connections that mature with each successful show. Cheers to collaboration, growth, and a shared vision for the future!” What wonderful Words in Action, and from aBr, the originator of the Words in Action strapline, Prost!
And we quote in straight business language, “As part of the global Automechanika network of automotive trade fairs worldwide, Automechanika Johannesburg is the largest automotive trade fair and business platform on the African continent. Featuring manufacturers from across the automotive sector, including parts & components, repair & maintenance, electronics, accessories, car wash, care & reconditioning, management & digital solutions as well as tyres & wheels, safari and off-road vehicles, Automechanika is the ultimate platform to source new products, view the latest technologies and meet new suppliers. Automechanika Johannesburg is organised by Messe Frankfurt South Africa. Running concurrently, Futuroad Expo Johannesburg is the most comprehensive business platform for the Truck, Bus and Commercial Vehicle Body Sectors. Futuroad Expo is a vital destination for anyone looking to stay informed about the latest advancements in the transport and logistics sector, fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and a vision for a sustainable and efficient future in transportation”.
CEO BREAKFAST & INNOVATION AWARDS
The CEO Breakfast at Automechanika 2023 was a resounding success, bringing together industry leaders and visionaries for a morning of insightful discussions. CEOs from prominent automotive companies convened to share perspectives, explore emerging trends, and chart the course for future collaborations. This exclusive gathering fostered invaluable connections and set the tone for innovation in the automotive sector. It was a true highlight of Automechanika 2023, encapsulating the event's commitment to driving excellence and shaping the future of the industry. The Innovation Awards at Automechanika 2023 celebrated pioneering advancements within the automotive industry. Among the standout innovations, "Strategic Fulfilling Branch Mapping" emerged as the 2023 winner, demonstrating ground-breaking solutions that are set to reshape the automotive landscape. These awards highlighted the relentless pursuit of excellence and ingenuity within the sector, showcasing Automechanika's commitment to recognizing and propelling innovation in the automotive world.
Exhibition Highlights
The Automechanika Johannesburg hall was alive with vibrant energy for three consecutive days, as industry leaders, innovators, and automotive enthusiasts converged to explore the latest trends, technologies, and innovations in the world of automobiles. It was a dynamic and knowledge-packed event that showcased the relentless spirit of progress within the automotive sector. It continues to be the premier destination for all things automotive, setting the stage for innovation and progress in the global automotive landscape.
At the end of the CEO Breakfast and Innovation Awards, delegates were taken on a VIP Tour
During the show, two RMI associations, TEPA (Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association) and MIWA (Motor Industry Workshop Association), used the opportunity to conduct seminars on the Blow the Whistle Campaign, and the Right to Repair crusade. aBr will delve deeper into these important initiatives in its following issues
As the Automechanika Jhb Was held on the eve of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, rugby gees was prevalent at some of the exhibitors’ stands
Exhibitors remain the life blood of the show
