History and Mission- RWGroomX
Finding Inspiration in Every 'Trim'
Education is at the heart of RW GroomX. Whether you’re looking for hands-on grooming instruction, insights into the latest tools of the trade, opportunities to connect with fellow groomers, or a pathway into professional education within the dog industry, RW GroomX is the place to learn, grow, and be inspired.
Now in its third year at the Owensboro Convention Center in Owensboro, Kentucky, RW GroomX has quickly established itself as one of the industry’s premier gatherings. Sanctioned by GroomTeamUSA, this competitive grooming event provides a world-class stage where groomers of every level—seasoned professionals and newcomers alike—can showcase their skills, build confidence, and gain recognition.
But RW GroomX is more than just a competition. It is destined to become the epicenter of education, innovation, and community for the grooming industry.
The event offers:
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Diverse Educational Opportunities: From hands-on workshops to in-depth seminars, our programming is designed to expand skills and spark creativity.
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Access to Industry Leaders: Learn directly from respected educators, innovators, and seasoned professionals who share their knowledge and experience.
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Premier Tools and Resources: Explore the latest products and innovations from the world’s top manufacturers and vendors.
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Community and Connection: Network with fellow dog enthusiasts, salon owners, and professionals who share your passion for grooming and dogs.
At RW GroomX, we believe education should empower every groomer—from the beginner taking their first steps to the expert seeking to refine their craft. We encourage all groomers to compete, not only for the thrill of the challenge but for the growth, confidence, and knowledge that competition brings.
RW GroomX is where education meets opportunity, and where a love for dogs unites a community of professionals, students, and enthusiasts alike.
RWGroomX: Where we came from.
The Story of RW GroomX:
RW GroomX traces its roots back to Novi, Michigan, where it began as an ancillary event alongside one of Michigan’s premier AKC dog shows. At that time, the grooming event was known as the Whitman’s Grooming Expo.
The Expo later moved to the Chicago area for two years. During those early years, the event did not yet feature its own vendors or educational program. However, through conversations and collaboration with some of the industry’s top professionals—vendors, groomers, and marketing experts alike—the vision for something greater began to take shape. The idea was clear: to establish a grooming event in a central U.S. location that not only made travel more accessible but also provided much-needed resources in education and supply resources for groomers.
This vision led to the decision to relocate the event to Owensboro, Kentucky, and reintroduce it under a new name—RWGroomX. This transformation elevated the show to the status of an internationally recognized event as one of only 16 GroomTeamUSA-sanctioned shows in the United States.
Since that move, RWGroomX has experienced tremendous growth, more than doubling in size from its first to its second year in Kentucky. Now, as we prepare to enter our third year at Owensboro, the momentum is only accelerating, with exponential expectations for what’s to come.
We invite you to join us in Owensboro and be part of the journey as RWGroomX continues to grow as one of the premier grooming events in the United States—a true celebration of competition, education, and community.
