Fashion brands in the UK are growing increasingly concerned about potential changes to the royal warrants under the reign of King Charles.
The new king is looking to promote a more eco-conscious Britain, which has led to fears of a cull of royal warrants.
These warrants, held by around 800 firms that supply the royal household, allow companies to use the royal arms in their branding.
Notable holders of these warrants include Burberry and Barber, along with several other exclusive garment makers.
In the past, the power to grant royal warrants rested with both Prince Philip and Charles when he held the title of Prince of Wales, alongside Queen Elizabeth II.
However, currently, only King Charles possesses this power.
There is speculation that he may grant similar roles to Queen Camilla and Prince William, following the example set by Prince Philip and himself under the late Queen.
Paul Algar, the Director of International Affairs at the UK Fashion and Textile Association, expressed concerns about the future of these warrants.
He questioned how many grantors there would be and whether Queen Camilla and the Prince of Wales would take on this responsibility.
The industry is worried about what will happen to the royal warrants if there are fewer people to grant them.
Algar further stated that they believe King Charles will scrutinize the sustainable and ethical practices of businesses before granting warrants.
The King is known for his passion for the built environment, agriculture, animal husbandry, and farming.
Helen Brocklebank, CEO of Walpole, an organization representing Britain’s luxury goods sector, expects King Charles to uphold the rigorous sustainability process that was in place during the Prince of Wales’ household warrants.
The current holders of royal warrants are nervous about the potential implications of losing them in a shake-up.
They understand the power and prestige associated with these warrants and are keen to maintain them.
Losing a royal warrant could have a negative impact on their brand and product messaging.
As the industry awaits King Charles’ decision on the future of royal warrants, fashion brands are bracing themselves for potential changes that align with the monarch’s eco-conscious vision.
The UK’s luxury goods sector hopes that the values and sustainability processes held dear by the Prince of Wales will continue to be upheld under the new reign.