Shoe Shine contest @ Gare martime

Europe’s best shoe shiners contest : Golden brush to win

Shoe lovers can get their shoes shined for free

How to maintain leather shoes at the highest level ? That is what the best shoe shiners in Europe will show in Brussels on 18 and 19 March 2023. The non-profit European Shoe Shine Association (ESSA) is calling for the competition for the “Golden Brush”. This coveted trophy, combined with prize money of €500, was awarded for the first time in 2018. Due to the large crowds at the first competition – people queued up – this time the competition will be held over two days instead of just one. “Everyone is welcome to have their shoes professionally maintained by a renowned shoe shiner for free,” said ESSA chairman Marcello Faraggi.

At three different shoe shine chairs at the same time, this special competition will be carried out. A top-class, three-member jury will select the best shoe shiner according to a points catalogue. As the only full-time professional shoe shiner in Belgium, Faraggi has been working since 2015, especially at events and for luxury hotels such as the “Stanhope Hotel” or the Thon Hotels. His clients also include law firms and offices. In 2016, he had founded ESSA together with several colleagues.

The new competition for the “Golden Brush” will be held this time at Tour & Taxis – Gare Maritime in Brussels (entrance : 7, rue Picard, 1000 Brussels). Participation is free of charge for visitors.