Royal Approval: Queen Camilla's Preferred Brands Unveiled

Hey there! Just wanted to share some exciting news from Queen Camilla. She recently granted her first royal warrants to seven companies. One of them is Shane Connolly, the talented designer known for creating the stunning floral arrangements at important events like last year's Coronation and the King and Queen's 2005 wedding. Another company that received the royal warrant is the prestigious Fortnum & Mason department store located in central London.

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Camilla has chosen seven companies that were originally selected by King Charles III when he was Prince of Wales. These companies have now had their warrants renewed after his coronation as King. Royal warrants are a mark of approval that show these companies provide goods and services preferred by the royal household and senior members of the royal family.

If you're curious about where Charles and Camilla like to shop for hats, wine, or organic meat, it's a good idea to see which companies have earned their approval.

The tradition of royal warrants dates back to medieval times, when Henry II awarded a Royal Charter to the Weavers' Company, as noted by the Royal Warrants Holders Association. Official royal warrants were first granted in the 15th century, with the King's printer, William Caxton, among the recipients.

Queen Camilla, the Patron of the Poppy Factory, visited the 95th Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey in London, England on November 9, 2023. This annual event has been held since November 1928 to honor and remember those who have sacrificed their lives while serving in the Armed Forces.

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - NOVEMBER 09: (EMBARGOED FOR PUBLICATION IN UK NEWSPAPERS UNTIL 24 HOURS AFTER CREATE DATE AND TIME) Queen Camilla (Patron of the Poppy Factory) visits the 95th Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey on November 9, 2023 in London, England. The Field of Remembrance has been held in the grounds of Westminster Abbey since November 1928, to commemorate those who have lost their lives serving in the Armed Forces. (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

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Certain companies have been granted approval to display the royal coat of arms on their packaging, vehicles, and advertisements for a period of five years. This act of officially supporting specific brands is one of the few remaining powers of the British monarchy that is not subject to influence by Parliament.

Brand finance expert David Haigh shared that customers are willing to pay 12% to 24% more for brands with a royal warrant, based on research conducted by his consultancy last year.

Haigh mentioned to CNN that getting a royal warrant can have a significant impact on everyday purchases and even on the sale of a company.

A window display at Fortnum and Mason celebrates the coronation of King Charles III on April 29, 2023 in London, England.

A window display at Fortnum and Mason celebrates the coronation of King Charles III on April 29, 2023 in London, England.

Haigh also mentioned that having a royal warrant can be advantageous for British companies looking to expand globally. He highlighted that many British brands are making strides in countries such as America, the Middle East, and China, and having a royal warrant can definitely give them a competitive edge.

Royal warrants are awarded to a diverse group of people and businesses across different industries, such as agriculture, conservation, office supplies, and clothing.

Among the companies recently granted royal warrants are Wartski, a jewelry business based in London, Corgi Hosiery Ltd, an independent sock manufacturer from Wales, and Camel Valley, a vineyard in Cornwall known for producing sparkling wines for the royal family.

Bob Lindo, managing director of Camel Valley, shared that Queen Elizabeth has shown a strong interest in English wines. He mentioned that she has been a great source of support and excitement for the industry.

He expressed his gratitude for being chosen as one of her first warrant holders, emphasizing how meaningful this appointment is to him.

Getting the royal seal of approval is not an easy task. It requires several years of dedication and a rigorous application process. According to Haigh, if you have been supplying goods to a royal palace for more than five years without interruption, you can apply for the royal seal of approval.

This undated photo issued on Tuesday May 14, 2024 by Buckingham Palace shows artist Jonathan Yeo's oil on canvas portrait of Britain's King Charles III. The portrait was commissioned in 2020 to celebrate the then Prince of Wales's 50 years as a member of The Drapers' Company in 2022. The artwork depicts the King wearing the uniform of the Welsh Guards, of which he was made Regimental Colonel in 1975.

Buckingham Palace recently released an undated photo of a portrait painted by artist Jonathan Yeo. The portrait features Britain's King Charles III and was commissioned in 2020. The painting commemorates the King's 50 years as a member of The Drapers' Company in 2022. In the artwork, King Charles is depicted wearing the uniform of the Welsh Guards, a position he has held since 1975.

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Tom Athron, CEO of Fortnum & Mason, the luxury London-based food and drinks store, highlighted a strong emphasis on working towards a sustainable future this year. The store was honored with one of Camilla’s first royal warrants.

Haigh also acknowledged the increasing importance of environmental responsibility. He mentioned that companies with Environmental, Social and Governance issues are unlikely to receive a royal warrant.

When a member of the royal family uses and approves of your product, it brings a double benefit to your company. Not only does it show that they enjoy your product, but it also signifies that you uphold high ESG standards. In today's world, this kind of endorsement is incredibly valuable.

Editor's P/S:

Queen Camilla's recent granting of royal warrants to seven esteemed companies reflects the enduring tradition of royal patronage in British society. These companies, including Shane Connolly and Fortnum & Mason, have earned recognition for their exceptional products and services, which have graced royal events and the personal lives of the royal family. The award of royal warrants not only signifies the approval of the monarchy but also boosts the reputation and marketability of these businesses.

Furthermore, the article highlights the evolving nature of royal patronage, emphasizing the increasing importance of environmental responsibility and ethical practices. Companies that prioritize sustainability and social consciousness are more likely to receive the royal seal of approval, demonstrating the monarchy's commitment to promoting responsible business practices. This shift underscores the growing recognition of the role that businesses can play in shaping a better future.