11 December 2025: GSF, the UK’s fastest-growing motor factor, has concluded its 2025 Branch Managers’ conference with a clear message to colleagues, suppliers, and the industry about its plans for 2026 and beyond.

The conference welcomed more than 500 attendees including branch managers, senior leaders and representatives from more than 40 leading suppliers.

Over two days, the conference featured inspiring presentations, engaging workshops and awards to celebrate standout branch performances all themed around the high-performance environment of Formula 1, including how GSF will continue its development to become the aftermarket’s “Winning Team”.

To immerse guests in the theme, former F1 engineer turned TV presenter and author Marc Priestley took to the stage on Sunday to share insights from motorsport, answer questions, and sign his new book Pitlane Lessons.

Later that evening, former England rugby star Matt Dawson took to the stage to share stories from his World Cup–winning career.

CEO Steve Horne, Executive Chairman Sukhpal Ahluwalia, and members of the senior management team unveiled the company’s roadmap to becoming the leading aftermarket distributor.

Steve Horne, CEO, GSF Car Parts, said: “We’re now in year three of growing the business by more than 20% per year since we acquired the business back in 2023. Back then, the mission was to cement GSF as one of the big players in the UK aftermarket. But in an environment where the rest of the industry is, at best, flat or down, we continue to march forward and, as we sit here today, I’m proud to say that number one spot is within reach in the next few years.” 

Sukhpal Ahluwalia, Executive Chairman, added: “The Branch Managers’ Conference is the most important event on our calendar. It’s where we bring together not only colleagues, but also suppliers who equally buy into our ‘secret sauce’ and are instrumental to our success.  

“We’re the only company inviting suppliers to hear firsthand how they are making a difference. 

“Congratulations to all our award winners. To come together and reflect on this amazing year, celebrate with colleagues and recognise some truly exceptional people and teams, is always a special highlight.” 

Schaeffler Automotive Lifetime Solutions was the recipient of the coveted “GSF Supplier of the Year” award. Matt Selby, Sales & Marketing Director, Schaeffler VLS UK, said: “I’m proud to receive this award on behalf of the whole team at Schaeffler VLS UK. GSF is brilliant to work with and it’s an honour that our relationship has been recognised in this way. Being at the conference has been invaluable to understand how GSF is progressing, as well as networking with branches who are on the front line, handling and selling our products every day. We look forward to continuing to support GSF long into the future.”   

Award winners: 

• Branch of the Year – Sponsored by Brembo: Taunton
• Region of the Year – Sponsored by FRAM: South Wales
• Supplier of the Year: Schaeffler

To find out how GSF can support your business, visit your local branch.