With 6 days to go until Automechanika Johannesburg 2026, automotive industry professionals can plan three days around their business priorities, from sourcing parts and workshop equipment to investigating repair challenges and meeting potential supply partners.
Organised by Messe Frankfurt South Africa, the annual event takes place at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand from 27 to 29 October. Its combination of product displays, technical conferences, live demonstrations and business matchmaking gives visitors several ways to make their time away from the workshop or office truly count.
“Automechanika Johannesburg brings local and international industry professionals together to explore products, meet suppliers and discuss the issues shaping the automotive aftermarket,” says Michael Dehn, managing director of Messe Frankfurt South Africa. “We look forward to welcoming the industry for the 11th time this October.”
Explore products for your business
The exhibition covers parts and components, accessories and customising, repair and maintenance, car wash and reconditioning, electronics and systems, and management and digital solutions.
Workshop owners, distributors, retailers and fleet professionals can explore engine and suspension components, diagnostic equipment, workshop software, vehicle-care products, and electric vehicle and hybrid technologies.
Conversations with suppliers can help visitors investigate product suitability and identify potential partners for their operations.
Addressing technical and regional challenges
The Automotive Remanufacturers’ Association Central Region Tech-Talk Conference on 28 October will address practical concerns for engine repair and remanufacturing professionals. Topics include engine problems associated with poor-quality diesel fuel, the future of diesel fuel injection, cooling systems, global industry trends and repair solutions. The programme offers an opportunity to explore technical issues relevant to day-to-day workshop operations.
For logistics operators, fleet managers and businesses involved in regional trade, the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport’s regional conference takes place on 28 and 29 October. Presented in collaboration with CILT South Africa, CILT Namibia and CILT Zimbabwe, discussions will cover transport corridors, cross-border harmonisation, safety and security, and education, training and skills development. Workforce requirements for new energy vehicles and digital logistics will also feature.
In addition, Goldwagen and Global One Automotive Southern Africa will host their own conferences (closed), bringing industry professionals together for expert presentations, business insights and networking opportunities.
See expertise in action
The MIWA SpannerTorque Pavilion will bring together 12 participating companies and organisations representing workshops, parts suppliers, automotive technology and industry initiatives. Hosted by the Motor Industry Workshop Association, the pavilion gives visitors a focused setting to meet businesses and explore their expertise.
A live car assembly demonstration using parts and components supplied by Backdraft Cobra will show a car taking shape from the chassis up. Visitors can watch control arms, hubs, brakes, shock absorbers, steering and wheels being assembled and taken apart, offering a close-up learning opportunity for aspiring mechanics and automotive enthusiasts.
Rhino Linings will showcase coating solutions on a specially customised trailer, with tactile samples allowing visitors to handle the materials firsthand.
Another exciting feature is BodyShop News Africa’s Student Journalist Program, offering journalism students hands-on experience reporting on industry innovations alongside its editorial team. Supported by Sherwin-Williams, the initiative aims to nurture future talent, strengthen automotive journalism and equip students with practical skills, published articles and professional endorsements to support their careers.
Arrive with meetings arranged
Exhibition registration includes complimentary access to the Business Matchmaking – Espresso Meet Up platform, helping visitors, exhibitors, delegates and trade buyers identify relevant contacts and schedule meetings before arriving. Registered participants receive a welcome email with their login link and profile details. Completing the questionnaire helps tailor matches to individual sourcing, supply and partnership interests.
“With opening day approaching, industry professionals are encouraged to register, review the conference programme and complete their matchmaking profiles,” urges Dehn.
“Planning a visit around specific products, technical questions and business contacts can help turn three days at Automechanika Johannesburg into a focused opportunity to advance business priorities,” he concludes.
Register now for your free trade visitor pass: https://app.messereg.com/events/visitor/automechanika-johan2026
For more information about exhibiting Automechanika Johannesburg 2026, please visit www.automechanikasa.co.za or contact Tracy Gounden at
Links to websites:
https://automechanika.za.messefrankfurt.com/johannesburg/en.html
Background information on Messe Frankfurt
www.messefrankfurt.com/background-information
Sustainability at Messe Frankfurt