In a significant move, Kate, the Princess of Wales, is poised to become the first in over 115 years to issue her own royal warrants. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the royal family's history, as the last Princess of Wales to grant such warrants was Queen Mary of Teck, prior to her husband, George V's ascension to the throne in 1910. This initiative aligns with Kate's expanding responsibilities as she prepares for her future role as Queen.
The Princess has been part of the royal family for 13 years, during which her duties have steadily increased. Recently, she, along with Prince William and their three children, took a February school break on the Caribbean island of Mustique. As she embarks on this new endeavor, potential candidates for her royal warrants include renowned fashion labels such as Alexander McQueen, Jenny Packham, Catherine Walker, and Mulberry.
A royal warrant grants a company the privilege to display the royal arms on its products for up to five years. This honor is typically reserved for companies that have consistently provided goods or services to the royal family. The Queen has previously appointed several new holders, including notable personalities like hairdresser Jo Hansford and milliner Philip Treacy. The King has also made his mark by granting warrants to companies like John Lewis and Nestle while withdrawing them from Unilever and Cadbury.
At 43, the Princess of Wales is gradually returning to public duties after recovering from cancer. She is reportedly keen on acknowledging British skills and industry through her selection of favorite brands for the royal warrants. Sources close to Kate have indicated to The Times that she hopes to announce these royal warrants soon.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are set to make their next joint appearance in Pontypridd, south Wales, on Wednesday, ahead of St David's Day. This visit continues their tradition of public engagement and support for regional communities.