It was a huge privilege to be recognised as Partner of the Year at The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Annual Dinner and Awards 2024 last night.

Thatcham Research colleagues including Jonathan Hewett, Karen Jakes, Sean Richardson, Mark Calder, Giles Brooks, Craig Sprules, Mark Pearce EngTech MIMechE AAE MIMI, and Louise Clark were delighted to attend and celebrate automotive excellence with industry peers.

Dean Lander, who accepted the award with David Simms – a key link in our relationship with the IMI – said: “The IMI awards are always a pleasure. The categories bring real focus to the individuals and companies that make the repair sector such a great place to work.

“Our more than 30-year long strategic working relationship with the IMI is a source of great pride, making this recognition all the more rewarding. Back in the early ’00s, we were the first delivery partner of Accredited Technician Awards (now IMI Accreditations) for the body repair sector, and we were the first training provider to develop MET and VDA EPA standards with the IMI – just two examples of our partnership’s role in raising the standard and quality of repair.

“Together we recognise the challenges facing the market today, and Thatcham Research looks forward to continuing that great relationship and channelling our energy into jointly addressing the skills gap and ensuring that vehicles can be sustainable through their entire lifecycle.”

Thatcham Research would also like to congratulate all the night’s other winners, especially Alison Ross MBE who won the Inspiring Automotive Woman Award, sponsored by our colleagues at the brilliant Automotive 30% Club.