‘Fantastic showcase’ - South Tyneside linked motor industry body gears up for success at Expo
“Our sector remains ambitious, innovative and determined to succeed.”
A South Tyneside linked motor industry body has put hundreds of delegates in the driver’s seat to greater success through crucial advice and support given at its annual showcase event.
Over 700 people from dozens of companies attended the North East Automotive Alliance’s (NEAA) Expo 2026, which delivered specialist insight into sector developments.
It allowed suppliers to engage directly with buyers and procurement teams through one-to-one discussions designed to open new business opportunities.
And companies also accessed expert guidance on funding, bid writing and grant applications, helping them identify and secure support for innovation, investment and growth.
Though Wearside based, the NEAA, the country’s leading automotive grouping, has several company members in South Tyneside and boasts a borough-based chairman, Martin Kendall.
He said: “The strength of this Expo reflects the resilience of our industry.
“Every year we bring together organisations from across the automotive supply chain to share knowledge, develop connections and create new opportunities. Our sector remains ambitious, innovative and determined to succeed.”
And chief executive Paul Butler added: “The feedback we've received so far has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Delegates have praised the calibre of exhibitors, the quality of networking opportunities, insightful main stage discussions and the collaborative atmosphere that has become synonymous with this event.
“The impact is already being felt, with the event helping to facilitate the appointment of a T-Level student at NEAA member company SMS Technology, who will join the business to provide support within its testing department.
“This is a fantastic example of the event creating real opportunities for young people while helping industry develop its future talent pipeline.”
The NEAA said the involvement of international car maker Nissan, which established a production plant at Sunderland in 1986, helped reinforce the Expo’s position as the region’s flagship automotive supply chain event.
Lee Watson, production director, Nissan Manufacturing UK, said: “It was great to see so much energy around the North East automotive sector.
“It was a fascinating day and a fantastic showcase for the region and a reminder of the high level of skill and expertise we possess in our part of the world.”