Automotive retail bosses and industry experts have praised Autogem for raising standards and awareness about TPMS systems, after its nationwide competition to discover the UK’s most talented technicians concluded in style.
More than 1,000 retail sites entered Under Pressure ’23, with 12 technicians beating hundreds to make the final, putting their problem-solving skills to the test at the Pirelli Performance Centre (PPC) in Burton-upon-Trent on Wednesday June 28.
In its second year, Autogem raised the bar with an under-23 technician category for the first time, focusing on young, emerging talent to supplement its large retailer and small retailer entries.
Pirelli’s state-of-the-art facility represented one of the most impressive workshops in the UK for the final, in an event designed to celebrate excellence whilst attracting and retaining talent within the industry at a critical time. Hosting Under Pressure ’23at the venue also allowed Autogem to include a new practical test to put finalists under even more pressure than last year.
Under Pressure ’23 is the industry’s only dedicated campaign to celebrate excellence in TPMS customer engagement and technical resolution. It’s a further commitment from Autogem to position the technology as a stand-alone category on a par with brakes, batteries, tyres or any other aspect of motoring care.
A judging panel observed and questioned each finalist after they tended to a specially prepared car with hidden TPMS issues and faults, with scores being given for all aspects of their performance.
Protyre’s Liam Healy was crowned the TPMS Expert (large retailer) along with Hometyre’s Craig Schwartz (small retailer), with Lewis Marshall from Formula One Autocentres winning the under-23s category. All finalists were praised for their ability in detecting various TPMS faults in a quick and efficient manner and communicating them clearly thereafter.
Autogem’s Managing Director Prashant Chopra said: “What an event! We couldn’t have wished for a better venue, with more talented finalists, all of whom displayed some incredible skills under real pressure.
“The aim was to raise standards in TPMS diagnosis and resolution and to elevate the profile of the category as a whole. It’s safe to say that we delivered and we couldn’t be happier as a result.
“We were so impressed with the finalists. Their sense of professionalism, desire to win and pride was great to see, as was a sense of real camaraderie. It was competitive, but with a sense of togetherness throughout.
Motoring journalist Rob Marshall added: “Autogem have raised the bar once again, and we can’t praise them enough for their initiative in what was an event we’ll remember for a long time. TPMS is safety critical and part of the MOT test. It is important to raise awareness, which is what Autogem have done so well here.”
Prashant concluded: ““It gave such pride to see so many talented working so hard to win. We feel we’ve created something really special with Under Pressure ’23.
“To see so many customers embrace this initiative meant a lot, and reminds us that TPMS is a vital area of the aftermarket that really matters to retailers. I’m happy to warn our wonderful TPMS gladiators to get ready for even more pressure in ‘24”
For more information about Autogem and TPMS, visit www.autogem.co.uk
