On Saturday, April 24 and Sunday, April 25, 2027, the Diamex Master Groomer competition will return for its fifth edition!
To mark this wonderful milestone, we are delighted to welcome you to an incredible new venue: Liège Expo, specially designed to offer you an unforgettable experience and showcase your talent.
In the span of five years, this competition has become a highly anticipated event for many groomers and enthusiasts from all over the world. While the level of competition remains high, theDNA of our event remains unchanged: it is based above all on friendliness, mutual support, and kindness. It is the perfect opportunity to gather, share our experiences, and grow together in a warm atmosphere.
This year again, we have the honor of welcoming renowned international judges. More than just evaluators, they are here to guide you, offer constructive advice, and kindly encourage you in your professional development.
This fifth edition of the Diamex Master Groomer will, once again, be the perfect balance between pushing one's limits and the joy of coming together around our shared passion. We look forward to welcoming you!
Date: 24 & 25 April, 2027
Location: Liege Expo, Hall 3 (Directions to Parking P1)
Contestant rate*: €75 per category
*contestants have automatic access to the event throughout the weekend.
Visitor admission fee*: €8 per day*
*Free entry for children under 12.
Free parking!

Paola Acco is an iconic figure in the grooming industry with over 35 years’ experience. She founded a salon in Portogruaro (Venice) in 1991 and a training school in 1999, and has trained over 400 students, including several international champions. A formidable competitor, Paola has won numerous medals in Italy, Europe and the United States, as well as prestigious titles such as Italian champion (1999) and World Team Champion (Barcelona 2003). A four-time finalist in the Oster Competition, she was also runner-up at the World Championships in Milan in 2007.
As co-founder of the Association of Italian Groomers (ATI), Paola organises major events such as the Master Show; she also leads numerous seminars and judges international competitions. In 2019, she launched the scissors Akko Scissors, renowned for their accuracy, and published Simply The Best, a reference book on grooming. Always active, she remains a source of inspiration for groomers the world over.

Rony De Munter is a well-known figure in the world of dog grooming and the terrier community. As the owner of the salon Folini, specialising in these breeds, he offers his expertise to professionals, with a particularly notable mastery of the Handstripping. His expertise has earned him numerous prestigious titles at national and international competitions, whilst also leading him to serve regularly as a judge on renowned international panels.
A passionate breeder of Lakeland and Fox Terriers under the kennel name «Of Foliny Home», Rony is also an experienced handler, highly regarded for his in-depth knowledge of terriers. Passionate about passing on his knowledge, he gives private lessons and regularly visits grooming schools, offering kind and supportive guidance to beginners and experienced professionals alike. Finally, through his activities and his brand of grooming equipment The Sentinel, he puts his experience to good use every day for professionals in the sector.

For this 2027 edition, the Diamex Master Groomer is proud to maintain its status as a competition recognized by theEGA (European Grooming Association), always with the same mission: to enhance,, promote, and and grow the grooming profession..
On the competition schedule, there will of course be the six official EGA categories, as well as our unofficial, creative, and commercial categories. Whether you wish to express your mastery of the Standards or let your creativity shine in freer styles, the joy of participating and friendliness will be present in every event!
More than just a competition, this event aims to be a true showcase for our profession. It is the perfect opportunity for every groomer to highlight their skills, expertise, and creativity through diverse and stimulating events.
OFFICIAL CATEGORIES:
- Beginner (Débutant)
- Handstripping* (Épilation)
- Intermediate (Intermédiaire)
- Pure Breed*(Scissoring)
- Spaniel & Setter*
- Standard Poodle** (Grand Caniche)
- Toy & Medium Poodle** (Caniche Toy et Moyen)
*Open and Champions Class
OTHER CATEGORIES:
- Asian Style (Style Asiatique)
- Double Master Groomer (Duo)
- Student class (Catégorie Étudiant)
- Workshop (Commercial & Doodles)
To ensure your participation goes as smoothly as possible, please read the rules carefully before registering. This step is crucial to:
- Fully understand the specific requirements of each category.
- Choose the category that truly matches your level and your model.
- Ensure that the work you present will be perfectly suited to the jury's expectations.
Saturday 24 April at 9.00 am:
- Asian Style
- Beginner
- Handstripping
Saturday 24 April at 2.00 pm:
- Double Master Groomer
- Intermediate
- Pure Breed*
Sunday 25 April at 9.00 am:
- Spaniel & Setter
- Student Class
- Workshop
Sunday 25 April at 2.00 pm:
- Standard Poodle*
- Toy & Medium Poodle*
With this competition, our goal is to highlight the work and excellence of the groomers who achieve remarkable performances throughout the event. We will, of course, honor these talents by crowning the grand winners with the prestigious All Around and Best in Show.
We will also celebrate the collective dynamic with the Best Team Award*Because grooming is also a beautiful human adventure built on sharing and camaraderie, this Award will recognize the team that has demonstrated the best cohesion and true technical consistency across all their work.
This edition will also be an opportunity to thank our community. We will have the immense pleasure of presenting a Special Prize to our early competitors, those who have followed us, supported us, and trusted us since the very first edition of the competition!
Finally, because we want to thank you and make this event unforgettable, expect a few wonderful surprises as well......
*Please note that a competitor can be registered in multiple teams, as long as the category they represent in each team is different (we invite you to read the rules to find the complete registration conditions for teams).
Seminar list coming soon ...
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We are delighted to have CaniQ one of the major sponsors of our competition!
Founded in 2019 by the passionate couple Thijs Samyn and Beau Cras, CaniQ was born out of a simple realisation: to create a service «By groomers, for groomers».
CaniQ is now a leading distributor of top-quality products and state-of-the-art equipment for professionals in the canine sector, offering, in particular, exceptional brands such as:
• Plush Puppy : The renowned Australian range of luxury cosmetics and skincare products designed to enhance all coat textures.
• Utsumi : High-precision Japanese scissors and cutting tools, essential for precision work.
• Lainee : Professional-quality hair protection and styling accessories.
Present at our competition with a dedicated stand, where you can discover their products first-hand, try out the Utsumi scissors, discuss Plush Puppy cosmetics and benefit from expert advice tailored to your needs, whether in the salon or at a competition.
Website: caniq.be
Email: info@caniq.be
Telephone: +32 474 83 51 09
- Terms and Conditions
- Programme (coming soon ...)
- Access map (coming soon...)
How do I register for the competition?
→ Registration for the competition is by the shop .
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 suitable for me?
→ Yes, our competition is perfectly suited to students; the Student Class allows you to discover the world of competition and put your skills into practice in a stimulating and supportive environment. It’s a great opportunity to have your work assessed by experienced judges, to benefit from their advice and to enjoy an exceptional learning experience. Several informative seminars are also on the programme, and a preferential rate is available to trainee groomers.
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.
Will there be a vet at the event?
→ If you need to see a veterinarian to have your dog checked before your return, please inform us by email, and we will arrange for one to visit. Please note that the costs are at your expense. For more information, contact us.
Are seminars offered during the competition?
→ Yes, a number of exceptional seminars are scheduled. We are honoured to welcome outstanding judges, as well as master groomers and renowned trainers. They will share their expertise through in-depth technical demonstrations and exclusive discussions. These seminars offer an incredible opportunity to enhance your skills under the guidance of true experts. View the list of seminars click here.
Any other questions?
→ Please send an email to laboratoire.diamex@gmail.com.

2023 French Champion and crowned 2025 European Champion, Allison perfectly masters the high demands of competitions. Her keen eye for detail and the excellence of her techniques have led her to the most prestigious podiums: finalist at the Stars Grooming Awards in the "Best International Groomer" category, a member of the elite 24 Champions of the Diamex Tournament of Champions in 2024 and 2025, and recently crowned Vice-Champion of that same Diamex Tournament of Champions in 2026. If Allison is taking the reins of Team Diamex, it is also due to her outstanding qualities as a trainer. Capable of transmitting her immense know-how with passion, clarity, and rigor, she will be there to observe your potential during the selections. A trainer who is both caring and demanding, she will push you all the way to ensure you reach your goals. Her goal: to guide you to give your very best, refine your technique to achieve perfection, and support you so that you, too, can become a big name in grooming.

To accompany Allison in her selection mission and, subsequently, in her role as Coach, Team Diamex will also be able to count on the invaluable presence of Feryal. A groomer and salon manager for over 24 years, she brings additional support and caring advice to the entire team.
With great kindness, Feryal will be an attentive and warm listener for everyone. Already accustomed to guiding future professionals with gentleness and an educational approach, she will be there to support you. Amidst the excitement of the competitions, she will be an additional reassuring presence, always ready to encourage you with complete calm. Her knowledge of canine behavior and massage will be a tremendous asset in watching over both you and your dogs.
Place: rue de la Berwinne 17 - 4450 Juprelle, Belgium (itinerary)
Languages: French, translated into English
Date: 28 November, 2026
1st session schedule: from 9:00 to 12:30
2nd session schedule: from 13:00 to 17:00
Your time slot (morning or afternoon session) will be communicated to you after registration.
→ Attention, to take part in the selection, you must come with your own model, which must already be prepped and ready: washed, detangled, etc.
Are you ready to take on a new challenge and give a real boost to your grooming journey? Joining Team Diamex is much more than just joining a team: it's entering a family united by a passion for the profession and a desire to surpass oneself. By becoming a member, you will have the unique opportunity to participate in competitions, benefit from exclusive training, and evolve in a stimulating environment alongside recognized professionals.
Whether you are a beginner, already a regular in the competition rings, or looking to get started with a great thirst for learning, please know that all profiles are welcome. Above all, we are looking for passionate individuals ready to commit themselves. It is your determination, your desire to progress, and your motivation that will make all the difference! Come show us what you are capable of and reveal your talent.
Selection process:
Two sessions are organized during the day, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Accordingly, each session will proceed as follows:
- Welcoming the participants: A moment to get to know each other and shake off the stress before starting!
- The practical test:* Time to groom! This will be a timed competition simulation. But don't panic, this test is primarily there to show us your potential; there is no need to know everything inside out or master every technique. Above all, we are looking for passionate people ready to learn and grow! Allison and Feryal will be there to observe your skills with kindness.
*You must come with your own model, which must already be prepped and ready: washed, detangled, etc. - What's next? After this first selection phase, each participant will be contacted personally within 15 days to find out if they have been selected and if they are moving on to the second recruitment phase.
Feryal Labed has been a groomer and grooming salon manager for 24 years. With years of experience and numerous training courses throughout her career, Feryal has acquired unrivalled expertise in the field of dog grooming. Her background includes in-depth training in dog education, canine behavior and pet massage techniques.
Her passion for animal welfare and her commitment to excellence naturally led her to share her knowledge. Today, Feryal Labed trains future groomers, sharing her experience with pedagogy and kindness.
Her educational approach, combining practical skills and theory, enables her students to develop solid abilities and prepare for a successful career in pet grooming.
Place: rue de la Berwinne 17 - 4450 Juprelle, Belgium (itinerary)
Languages: French, Dutch and English
Day classes: Monday and Friday (from 9:30 to 14:30)
Evening classes: Wednesday and Thursday (from 17:45 to 20:15)
Inscription: labedferyal@gmail.com
During her coaching sessions, Feryal covers not only cutting, but also care, bathing and the efficient running of a grooming salon. Feryal's courses focus on commercial grooming and are exclusively participative. What's more, there's no minimum level required, so whether you want to start or improve, Feryal will adapt to your level and your needs.
Daily classes are held on Mondays and Fridays (see #4 Dates), starting at 9.30 and finishing at 15:30. You can bring one or more models as you wish.
Evening classes are held on Wednesdays and Thursdays, starting at 17:45 and finishing at 20:15. Only one model is accepted for these classes.
Day classes:
- Monday 16 November
- Monday 30 November
Day classes: 75€
Evening classes: 60€