Around 3,000 groomers regularly attend Interzoo. To better serve this important target group, WZF and ZZF, together with internationally renowned expert Kitty Dekeersgieter, developed a new event format tailored specifically to professional salon owners, mobile groomers, grooming teams, as well as brands and distributors. The event sold out and proved a great success, with 200 groomers enjoying an inspiring and varied programme.
Kitty Dekeersgieter summed up the significance of the event: “The Interzoo Groomers’ Day marks an important milestone for the global grooming community. For the first time, professional groomers, brands and distributors from around the world came together in a dedicated space to network, learn from one another and exchange ideas. Interzoo provided a unique opportunity to showcase education, expertise and innovation in the grooming sector – within an environment that places sustainability, ergonomics and animal welfare centre stage.”
Live grooming demonstrations by internationally renowned grooming experts
One of the standout highlights of the first international Groomers’ Day was a series of live grooming demonstrations by leading professionals from the global grooming community. Participants not only gained valuable insights into a range of grooming techniques but also had the opportunity to watch the experts at work up close and engage with them directly.
Roberto García Maroto offered an impressive live demonstration of professional hand-stripping on a Jack Russell Terrier. During his 90-minute presentation, he showed how coat knowledge, precision, timing and technique must work hand in hand to achieve the breed’s distinctive terrier look. His practical explanations and expert tips provided valuable takeaways for everyday work in the grooming salon.
The presentation by renowned Polish groomer Sandra Mularska captivated participants with an inspiring and technically flawless demonstration of the “Asian Style”. She introduced the principles of one of the world’s most popular grooming styles, which transforms dogs into charming, fluffy teddy bears through exceptional precision and attention to detail. Featuring signature elements such as the distinctive “broccoli haircut” and the rounded “pop ears” head shape, the style places particular emphasis on expert scissor work – a skill that took centre stage throughout her impressive demonstration.
New opportunities for the grooming business
Expert presentations on the future development of grooming salons provided valuable insights into how grooming businesses can respond to changing market conditions and position themselves for long-term success. Practical and inspiring sessions explored strategies for building resilient businesses, with topics ranging from pricing models and sustainable business development to new opportunities through partnerships and succession planning.
Particularly popular were the presentations showcasing ways to expand existing service portfolios. Whether through additional services such as canine dental care or by entering the growing cat grooming market, innovative offerings can open up new revenue streams while strengthening a business’s competitive position.
The key message of the event was clear: a holistic approach to pet care is essential for standing out in the market and building lasting customer loyalty.
Networking and company presentations
Companies offering products and services related to coat and dental health showcased their businesses in the Sponsors’ Area, taking advantage of this exclusive opportunity to present their brands and solutions to the international grooming community. The networking breaks, lunch sessions and the Groomers’ Happy Hour provided valuable opportunities to connect with groomers and industry professionals from around the world.
“I am delighted with the success of this first edition and would like to thank all speakers for their contributions and our sponsors for their support,” said Dr Rowena Arzt, Head of Exhibitions at WZF – Pet Industry Service. “Interzoo is a trade fair created by the industry for the industry – and the Interzoo Groomers’ Day demonstrated this in a particularly impressive way. The idea for the event came directly from the grooming community itself. The overwhelmingly positive feedback and strong level of interest confirm that the format has struck exactly the right chord.”
The Interzoo Groomers’ Day was expertly moderated by Sophie Ciciliani, Training and Education Officer at ZZF, and Jennifer Welzel, Deputy Chair of the ZZF Pet Grooming Working Group.
