In an historic move, King Charles has bestowed the authority to issue royal warrants to Prince William and Kate Middleton, making it the first time in 116 years a Princess of Wales has been given this power. This deviation from royal convention signifies the king’s growing trust in his eldest son and daughter-in-law as they gear up for greater responsibilities.
The grant comes into effect in the spring of 2026, which will see William and Kate join King Charles and Queen Camilla in issuing Royal Warrants of Appointment. The last Princess of Wales who had the power to issue royal warrants was Queen Mary, between 1901 and 1910, before her ascension as Queen Consort.
Ian Wright, Kate’s private secretary, confirmed the news and expressed enthusiasm for the new responsibility. Their Royal Highnesses are excited to celebrate and recognize British industry, creativity, and skills by granting warrants.
A royal warrant is a mark of recognition for companies and individuals who have supplied goods or services to the royal household. The honor allows brands to display the royal crest on their products and marketing materials, offering considerable prestige and business advantage. Current warrant holders include luxury retailer Fortnum & Mason, fashion house Burberry, and food manufacturer Heinz, showcasing the broad spectrum of businesses acknowledged by the royal family.
To be considered for a royal warrant, businesses have to meet rigorous criteria. They must have provided the royal household with goods or services for at least five of the past seven years and maintain an ongoing trading relationship. This requirement ensures that only businesses with a proven history of quality and dependability receive the accolade.
Applications for royal warrants from Prince William and Kate will begin in May 2026. Application forms and comprehensive instructions will be provided to interested companies that do not currently hold warrants.
This announcement comes at a time when the royal family is dealing with significant health issues. King Charles made his cancer diagnosis public in February 2024, and has recently shared positive updates about his treatment progress.
Kate, too, has had her own health struggle, with her cancer now in remission after treatment. The 43-year-old Princess of Wales has gradually returned to public duties, while prioritizing her recovery and family life with Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7.
The family recently celebrated Christmas at Sandringham, attending church services at St Mary Magdalene with other members of the royal family. This traditional gathering displayed the family’s unity during a challenging period marked by health issues and an increase in public responsibilities.
Given Kate’s influence on fashion, her warrant selections are expected to be particularly significant. The Princess of Wales is well-known for her impact on British fashion, with items she wears often selling out within hours. Fashion designer Emilia Wickstead could be among the brands receiving recognition.
Former royal butler, Grant Harrold, noted that the king’s decision to extend warrant-granting powers to William and Kate reflects his intention to gradually transfer responsibilities to the next generation while he focuses on his health and streamlined duties.
The royal warrant system has traditionally been reserved for the reigning monarch and their consort, making this expansion notable. With the inclusion of the Prince and Princess of Wales, King Charles is setting a precedent that recognizes the growing role William and Kate have in representing the monarchy and supporting British businesses.
Furthermore, this move positions Kate as a key figure in promoting British commerce and craftsmanship. Her selections will likely spotlight businesses that align with her known interests in early childhood development, mental health, and sustainable fashion, potentially drawing attention to companies operating in these sectors.
As applications open in May 2026, businesses across the United Kingdom will have the opportunity to seek recognition from multiple members of the royal family for the first time in over a century, marking a new chapter in the relationship between the monarchy and British industry.
