The EMCup, an annual competition between the best Hospitality Management Schools in Europe, had the judges exclaiming their win as “incredible”, as the team from Edge won on their first attempt.
The team, coached by lecturer Alex Horswill said: “The students worked tirelessly, supporting each other every step of the way. Their determination, creativity, and professionalism were second to none. Winning the EMCup on our first attempt is a testament to their talent and the incredible education they receive at Edge.”
Speaking about their win, competition judge and Director of BWH Hotels Stefan Dubbeling said: “To walk in as first-time competitors and walk out as champions, it’s incredible.”
The team competed against students from Europe’s top hospitality schools in the annual competition, which encourages students to think outside the box by proposing real-life scenarios that they respond to.
In the final Dragon’s Den-style task, the Essex team had to present a solution to a blind case study – a Dutch hotel that wanted to improve staff retention. Speaking after their win, all four Dragon judges said they would have invested in the Edge team’s suggested nature spaces and breakrooms for staff to relax in.
Speaking about the experience, final-year Hotel Management student Emma Sharma said: “Taking part in EMCup was a transformative experience that pushed me beyond my limits and showed me the true power of teamwork and resilience. I joined to challenge myself and grow, but I walked away with so much more – confidence, new skills, and unforgettable memories. To future students: seize this opportunity, step out of your comfort zone, and trust that the journey will shape you in ways you never imagined!”
Adrian Martin, Deputy Head of the School, said: “This unexpected triumph is not only a monumental achievement for the School but also signals a bright future for our students who are already in great demand. No one has ever won on their first attempt and the staff and students here are so very proud.”
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