13th August 2026: GSF Car Parts, the UK’s fastest-growing motor factor, has partnered with The Purpose Coalition to champion technical skills, workforce development and opportunity across the automotive aftermarket through a new national programme, Driving Opportunity.

The partnership launches at a crucial moment for the UK’s skills agenda. The Government has set out a renewed focus on technical education, employer-led pathways and better alignment between training and labour market demand. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has also prioritised practical routes into skilled work, reflecting the challenges facing the automotive aftermarket and its growing skills gap.

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) forecasts a shortfall of more than 30,000 EV-qualified technicians by 2032, alongside widening gaps in diagnostics, ADAS calibration and digital vehicle systems. The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) also reports that more than 80% of independent garages struggle to recruit skilled staff, with rapid technological change outpacing the supply of new entrants.

Driving Opportunity will explore how national and regional priorities can be applied across the aftermarket, bringing employers, educators and policymakers together while highlighting the sector’s contribution to social mobility, local economies and the UK’s future workforce.

GSF already plays a major role in the UK aftermarket, with 217 branches, national distribution capability and deep relationships with independent garages, fleets and training providers.

Steve Horne, Chief Executive Officer at GSF, said: “Garages across the UK are looking for technicians, apprentices and future leaders. Through this partnership, we can help address some of the industry’s biggest workforce challenges while supporting the future of technical education and skills development.”

Rt Hon Justine Greening, Founder and Chair of The Purpose Coalition, added: “Businesses have a critical role in helping more people access opportunity. As the Government strengthens technical education, partnerships like this can help bridge the gap between education and employment.”

Over the coming months, the partnership will deliver research, stakeholder engagement and policy development, culminating in the Driving Opportunity report to help address the skills gap and deliver practical recommendations for employers, educators and policymakers.

To find out more, visit www.purpose-coalition.org