Charles Grants Kate Middleton a Unique Authority
King Charles III has bestowed a significant expansion of royal responsibilities upon Prince William and Kate Middleton, granting them the authority to issue Royal Warrants from 2026[1][2][3][4]. These prestigious marks of recognition are given to brands, companies, or individuals that regularly supply goods or services to the Royal Household.
The process for new applications for warrants under Prince William and Kate's authority will begin in early 2026. Eligible entities must have supplied goods or services to the Royal Household for at least five of the previous seven years and demonstrate excellent standards, service, and environmental responsibility[2].
Currently, about 800 warrant holders represent a wide range of business categories, including restaurants, manufacturers, hotels, tailors, and more. The brands that Prince William and Kate will endorse through Royal Warrants are likely to be British businesses renowned for quality and creativity, but the exact recipients will only be confirmed once the new warrants are issued starting next year[1][2][3].
Princess Diana, the last person to officially hold the title before Catherine, never granted any royal warrants. In contrast, Kate Middleton will be the first Princess of Wales to have the power to grant Royal Warrants in 115 years[5]. Mary of Teck, the grandmother to Queen Elizabeth II, was the last person to grant a royal warrant as Princess of Wales in 1910.
The positive impact on brands when associated with the Princess of Wales is often referred to as 'The Kate Effect'. Brands such as Catherine Walker, Jenny Packham, and Alexander McQueen, who designed Kate Middleton's wedding dress, are among those often associated with the Princess. Monica Vinader, a jewelry brand, is one of the businesses that might see a boost from a Royal Warrant granted by Kate Middleton.
The Royal Household Warrants Committee reviews all warrants in the year before they are due to expire. Only the monarch decides who may grant Royal Warrants. The Prince and Princess are delighted to be able to recognise and celebrate British industry, creativity, and skills through the granting of Warrants.
In the past, the granting of Royal Warrants has not always been without controversy. For instance, in 2000, Harrods lost their royal warrant during a period of turmoil between Prince Philip and Harrods's owner at the time, Mohamed Al Fayed.
As we await the announcement of the first brands to receive Royal Warrants from Prince William and Kate Middleton, it's clear that this new chapter in their royal duties will further highlight their support for British industry and craftsmanship.
[1] BBC News, "What is a Royal Warrant of Appointment?", 2021,
- The Prince and Princess's selection of brands to endorse through Royal Warrants will likely highlight their support for family-run businesses renowned for both beauty and health, such as organic skincare brands or sustainable wellness studios.
- As the first Princess of Wales to grant Royal Warrants in 115 years, Kate Middleton might influence the home decor and entertainment sectors, promoting British creativity through partnerships with iconic furniture makers or innovative film production companies.
- Celebrities who advocate for family values and healthier lifestyles may find collaboration with Prince William and Kate Middleton through Royal Warrants, further emphasizing their joint commitment to wellness and raising awareness on these issues.
