Prince William and Kate Middleton just given major new royal roles by King Charles, palace confirms
Kate Middleton has just made history — and it could give a powerful boost to many British brands.
For the first time since 1910, the title of Princess of Wales now carries with it the power to grant Royal Warrants — an official stamp of approval from the monarchy that’s long been considered one of the most prestigious endorsements in the UK.
Kensington Palace confirmed this week that both Prince William and Princess Kate have been authorised by King Charles to begin issuing Royal Warrants from 2025 onwards. The announcement marks a significant milestone, as Kate becomes the first Princess of Wales since Queen Mary (then Princess Mary of Teck) to receive this privilege.
Ian Patrick, Private Secretary to the Prince of Wales, described the couple as “delighted to be able to recognise and celebrate British industry, creativity and skills through the granting of Warrants.”
Royal Warrants, awarded to businesses that supply goods or services to the royal household, are valid for five years and allow the chosen companies to display the royal coat of arms on their products and marketing. It’s a mark that often translates into huge commercial value — and immediate public trust.
Among the latest companies to receive a warrant are Camel Valley, a Cornish sparkling wine producer; Welsh knitwear manufacturer Corgi Hosiery; and even Queen Camilla’s longtime hairdresser, Jo Hansford. Many of these brands have reported a significant uptick in demand following the recognition.
What this could mean for the fashion brands Kate supports
As the Princess of Wales, Kate has long had an outsized influence on consumer trends. Items she wears routinely sell out within hours — from the iconic Issa wrap dress she wore during her engagement announcement to the Ghost floral number seen during the BBC’s “Big Night In.”
With her new authority to grant Royal Warrants, industry watchers expect Kate’s favourite labels will now be even more sought after by both fashion insiders and the public. Designers like Catherine Walker, Jenny Packham and Erdem — already staples in her wardrobe — are seen as likely candidates. So too are jewellers like Kiki McDonough and Robinson Pelham, whose elegant designs have often accompanied the Princess at major royal events.
For many brands, a royal warrant from Kate would be more than symbolic — it would represent a game-changing boost to reputation, sales, and global visibility.
While the public and press continue to speculate on who may receive the first warrants from the royal couple, one thing is certain: with Kate now holding one of the monarchy’s oldest commercial privileges, her influence over British industry just became even more powerful.
