Upcoming Events

For one weekend, the city of Liège will become the beating heart of the grooming world. On Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April 2026, the fourth edition of the Diamex Master Groomer competition will take place.

In the space of three years, this competition has established itself as an unmissable event where groomers and enthusiasts from around the world gather to share their experiences and compete in a friendly yet highly competitive setting.

One of the great strengths of our competition lies in the exceptional opportunities it offers its participants. Each year, we make it a point of honour to invite outstanding international judges, renowned for their expertise and high standards. These encounters represent an invaluable opportunity for all competitors, who can benefit from valuable advice and expand their professional network.

Diamex Master Groomer is a combination of high-level competition, learning and extraordinary encounters.

Practical information: 
Date: 18 & 19 April, 2026
Location: "Henriette Brenu" hall, rue Gilles Magnée 123, 4430 Ans Belgium (itinerary)
Category price: 70€* 
Entry price: €5 per day
*contestants have automatic access to the event throughout the weekend.

Date: 18 & 19 April, 2026
Location: "Henriette Brenu" hall, rue Gilles Magnée 123, 4430 Ans Belgium (itinerary)
Category price: 70€* 
Entry price: €5 per day
*contestants have automatic access to the event throughout the weekend.

Ilse Frenk Kleton is an NDGAA certified groomer (Non-Sporting) who has been qualified in the Netherlands since 1984, boasting a long career as a groomer, instructor, and examiner in Dutch schools. A recognized EGA All-Around Judge, she has served for decades as both a judge and active practitioner at numerous national and international competitions, frequently giving demonstrations and seminars abroad. The daughter of Poodle breeders ("Van de Amerongsche Berg") and a Poodle enthusiast herself, she later became a breeder/owner of Bichons. She has bred several award-winning dogs, including Tiger Lily (Best Bichon 2022, Best of Group 9 2022) and Sunray (Best Dutch Bichon 2018–2019). Her distinctions include the title of European Champion Poodle Grooming (1993), several major titles at the SNPCC in Reims (2006) and Aubusson (2007), being voted Best Practical Supervisor in the Netherlands (2009), being named Best International Judge (2024), and receiving the Leadership Award at Groomphoria (2025). She is also the author of Het Grote Hondentrimboek (1996).

Vincent Pastor began his journey in competitive grooming in 1996 at Intergroom in New York, quickly gaining renown by winning numerous medals until 2003. Competing across multiple countries, he became a key and respected figure on the international professional grooming scene. Driven by passion, he served as a member of Team France for ten enriching years, contributing to their third-place finish at the World Championships in 2003 and brilliantly leading the team to victory in 2005. Alongside his competitive career, Vincent has judged various grooming competitions in France and abroad, notably as co-organizer of the renowned "Ciseaux d'Or" (Golden Scissors), and even served as a judge at the World Championships in 2007. As an entrepreneur, he founded "Calin Toilettage," establishing three thriving salons in France. With 33 years of experience, he has trained countless talented groomers, cementing his status as an essential and admired figure in international grooming and inspiring the next generation of passionate professionals.

Chiara Piccionetti began her illustrious career in 1998 and quickly established herself as a key figure in international grooming. Initially recognized for her outstanding work with Poodles, she became a renowned specialist in Terriers. An exceptional competitor, she earned the title of Vice Champion of Europe EGA in 2004 and went on to win the prestigious Oster Tournament of Champions in 2009. A cornerstone of the Italian national team, she successfully led the team to the title of World Vice Champion in 2022 as captain, demonstrating her leadership and dedication. Now a sought-after speaker and EGA judge for all categories, she officiated at the World Championships (2013, 2024) and has been named Best Italian Judge twice (2014 and 2024). Deeply involved in the transmission and evolution of the profession, she is the co-author of the reference manual "Masters of Stripping," a trainer for Studio 4 Webinars, and a founding member of the F.N.T. association. She also co-organizes Romeo Grooming, an international competition whose proceeds are donated to charitable causes.

Michail Premtsis is a certified Professional Master Groomer and a member of the Greek grooming team. Since 2013, he has taken part in numerous international grooming competitions, earning several prestigious distinctions along the way. His achievements include the titles of Best Breed Groomer in 2016 and 2017, as well as Best International Groomer at the World Grooming Conference in the UK in 2019. In the same year, he also triumphed at the Oster European Invitational Tournament of Champions. Beyond his competitive success, Michail has garnered over 60 Best in Show placements at dog shows, primarily with his beloved Scottish Terriers. As a specialist in the hand stripping technique, Michail has become an undeniable reference in the grooming field, thanks to his expertise, passion, and precision. His commitment to excellence and attention to detail have allowed him to build an enviable reputation among his peers and to become a mentor for many aspiring groomers eager to learn the intricacies of this craft.

Alison began grooming at 16 and ran her own salon for 18 years, launched with support from the Prince’s Trust. She teaches dog grooming and animal care (NVQ, BTEC, national diploma, NPTC Level 2) at colleges and at her Holmfirth salon. Her qualifications include City & Guilds 730 and 7750, OCR Level 4, a higher grooming diploma, and the LCGI; she is a member of the Guild of Master Groomers. Alison competes and judges internationally: Professional Groomers Champion Best in Show 2003 and 2004, runner-up at the British Dog Grooming Championships (2000), Groomer of the Year 2007, and member of the English Groom Team (2007–2009, 2010–2011) — the team placed 3rd in the world. She has shown and bred West Highland Whites, Standard Poodles and Bichon Frisés with success at Crufts. Formerly head groomer at Harrods Pet Spa, she now works full-time in Yorkshire teaching and providing freelance salon training, and tests Mikki products before release.

Diamex Master Groomer is a competition recognised by theEGA (European Grooming Association), whose aim is to promote and develop the grooming profession.

A rich and varied programme featuring the six officialEGAcategories, as well as non-official creative and commercial categories for competitors who want to participate for the fun of the competition.

This competition is a real showcase for talent, offering participants a multitude of opportunities to highlight their skills and creativity in a variety of exciting categories.

OFFICIAL CATEGORIES: 

• Beginner .
• Handstripping* 
• Intermediate .
• Pure Breed*
• Spaniel & Setter*
• Standard Poodle* .
• Toy & Medium Poodle* .

*Open and Champion classes

OTHER CATEGORIES: 

• Asian Style.
• Double Master Groomer (Duo)
• Student class .
• Workshop (Commercial & Doodles)

Our goal is to highlight the work and excellence of groomers who deliver outstanding performances throughout the competition, beginning with the winners of the prestigious All Around and Best in Show.

We also celebrate team spirit with the Best Team Award. Parce que le toilettage est aussi une histoire de partage et de complicité, ce Prix viendra récompenser l’équipe qui aura su démontrer la meilleure cohésion et une qualité technique homogène sur l’ensemble de ses réalisations.

This edition carries special emotion. To honor the memory of Alain Treins, we have created the Alain Treins Challenge. An exceptional groomer, an outstanding teacher and an iconic figure in our profession, Alain was above all a man of immense kindness and deep generosity. He touched many careers with his passion, his exacting standards and his gift for passing on knowledge. 

For this, the judges will select each day the competitor who achieved the best transformation (one prize awarded on Saturday and one on Sunday - every participant, across all categories, is eligible). The two winners will then be pitted against each other in a final deliberation to crown the overall Challenge champion. 

Through this challenge, we celebrate the priceless legacy Alain leaves to the profession, a tribute to his career, his passion, and the lasting mark he made on the world of grooming. 

• Terms and Regulations
• DMG26 Programme
• Access map (coming soon)

A bathing area equipped with tubs, grooming tables, dryers (limited quantity, availability not guaranteed), and Diamex products will be at your disposal to help you prepare your dog before the competition. These facilities provide you with a suitable environment to wash your dog under the best possible conditions.

To ensure smooth organization and avoid long queues, access to the bathing area will be by reservation only. You have the option to book multiple time slots 

Reservations: send an email to laboratoire.diamex@gmail.com
Location: Rue de la Berwinne 17, 4450 Juprelle Belgique (itinerary)
Horaires samedi 18 avril : from 6:00 to 17:00 
Horaires dimanche 19 avril : from 6:00 to 14:00

How do I register for the competition?
Registration for the competition is done exclusively via the online registration form .

As a visitor, do I need to book my tickets?
→ No, you can buy them directly on site. 

Will there be food and drink on site?
→ Yes, there will be a variety of drinks and snacks available in the bar throughout the day. A food truck will also be on hand for lunch, offering a variety of meal options.

Can I pay by card on site?
→ Yes, a terminal is available for electronic payments. The types of payment accepted are : Visa, V PAY, MasterCard, Maestro, American Express, Discover, Diners Club or Union Pay. Please note that if you make a payment with an international card, your bank may charge you a fee depending on the bank's currency conversion policy. 

I'm a student, is this event for me? 
→ Yes, our competition is perfectly suited for students! We've even scheduled a dedicated Student Class, which allows you to discover the world of competitive grooming by applying your skills in a competitive setting. Our competition is an excellent opportunity to have your work evaluated by experienced judges, whose advice and experience are an invaluable asset. It's also an exceptional learning opportunity.

I'm a visitor. Can I bring my dog? 
→ Yes, of course your dog is welcome at our event, as long as it is kept on a lead and under supervision at all times. This will enable all participants, visitors and their four-legged companions to enjoy the event in the best possible conditions. Don't forget to make sure your dog's vaccinations are up to date.

Est-il possible de voir un vétérinaire sur place ?
If you need to see a veterinarian for your dog to be checked before your return, please inform us by email, and we will arrange for one to come. Please note that the costs are the responsibility of the competitor. For more information, please contact us. 

Are seminars offered during the competition?
Yes, several exceptional seminars are scheduled. We have the honor of hosting exceptional judges, who are also renowned Master Groomers and trainers. They will share their expertise through advanced technical demonstrations and privileged discussions. These seminars offer an incredible opportunity to enhance your skills through contact with true experts. To consult the list of seminars, click here.

Any other questions?
→ Please send an email to laboratoire.diamex@gmail.com.