The four top-ranking teams proceed to the knockout phase that culminates with the final match at Glenisk O'Connor Park.

The inaugural championship in 2018 featured four regraded teams from the 2017 Offaly SHC: Clodiagh Gaels, Lusmagh, Shamrocks and Tullamore.

The remaining four teams were the 2017 Offaly IHC semi-finalists: Ballinamere, Brosna Gaels, Carrig-Riverstown and Drumcullen.

The teams are ranked in the group stage table by points gained, then scoring difference and then their head-to-head record.

The fifth and sixth-placed teams from the group stage take part in a relegation playoff to determine who drops to the Offaly Intermediate Hurling Championship.