The Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket stand at Automechanika Birmingham was the largest and proved to be one of the most popular at the show. It attracted a constant stream of technicians and garage operators keen to see the latest product innovations and practical hands-on product training delivered by the global technology giant’s technical team.

Technicians were given fitting advice and hints and tips on the company’s original equipment LuK clutch, INA tensioner and FAG wheel bearing brands, as well as the newly introduced Ruville engine, cooling and suspension components range. Visitors were also treated to a question and answer session with former Formula One racing star Mark Webber.

Schaeffler (UK) Ltd had invited members of its online workshop resource portal REPXPERT (www.repxpert.co.uk) to register for a free VIP Experience at Automechanika which included a VIP entry ticket, hospitality on the company’s stand, plus a fantastic back-pack full of goodies. Non members also had the opportunity to sign up on the day of their visit.

Automechanika was also the launch show for the new @REPXPERT_UK Twitter channel. The company used the Twitter platform to publicise the show and REPXPERT VIP experience before the event, with live tweets on training, celebrity visits and competitions running during the show.

Malcolm Short, Schaeffler’s Technical Services Manager, said, “We were pleased to see so many technicians visit our stand. There were a lot of familiar faces who always visit shows and it’s great to talk to them, but there were also many new people.” He added, “The stand was great and our REPXPERT trainers were kept busy throughout the three days of the show. Our customers’ customers also enjoyed the VIP tours of the stand and obviously the appearance of Mark Webber attracted a lot of interest.”

Schaeffler had the largest stand at the NEC show which featured the championship contending ABT Schaeffler Formula E racing car in front of a feature video wall showing non-stop action and on-track exploits. The Schaeffler sponsored Le Mans winning Porsche LMP 919 was also displayed in the show foyer.