In a historic move, King Charles has granted Prince William and Kate Middleton the ability to issue royal warrants, a first for a Princess of Wales in 116 years. This decision, deviating from traditional royal protocol, signifies the king’s growing trust in his eldest son and daughter-in-law as they brace for increased obligations.
With this decision, Prince William and Princess Kate will join King Charles and Queen Camilla in bestowing Royal Warrants of Appointment from spring 2026 onwards. The last Princess of Wales to exercise this power was Queen Mary, who issued royal warrants from 1901 to 1910 when she served as princess before becoming queen consort.
The news was confirmed by Ian Patrick, Private Secretary to the Prince of Wales, who expressed excitement about this new responsibility. He said that Their Royal Highnesses are thrilled to acknowledge and celebrate British industry, creativity, and skills through the issuance of warrants.
A royal warrant is a mark of recognition for those who have supplied goods or services to the royal household. It allows companies to display the royal crest on their products and marketing materials, offering substantial prestige and commercial benefit. Current warrant holders include upscale retailer Fortnum & Mason, fashion brand Burberry, and food manufacturer Heinz, reflecting the diverse range of businesses acknowledged by the royal family.
Applications for royal warrants from William and Kate will be accepted starting May 2026. Detailed instructions and application forms will be provided to interested companies that do not currently hold warrants during this period.
The announcement comes at a time when the royal family is dealing with significant health issues. King Charles publicly disclosed his cancer diagnosis in February 2024 and shared optimistic updates about his treatment progress in 2025.
Kate, too, has had her own health struggles, with her cancer now in remission after completing treatment. The 44-year-old Princess of Wales has progressively returned to public duties, while prioritizing her recovery and family life with Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7.
The Wales family recently spent Christmas at Sandringham, attending church services at St Mary Magdalene with other royal family members. This traditional gathering showcased the family’s unity during a difficult time marked by health issues and increased public duties.
Kate’s influence on fashion is expected to make her selections particularly impactful. Recognized for her significant contributions to British fashion, items she wears often sell out within hours. Designer Emilia Wickstead could be among the brands receiving recognition.
Grant Harrold, a former royal butler, noted that King Charles’s decision to extend warrant-issuing powers to William and Kate reflects his intent to gradually pass on duties to the next generation as he focuses on his health and adjusts his responsibilities.
While preparing for their expanded role, the couple has been settling into their new home, Forest Lodge in Windsor Great Park, where they moved in November 2025. The property is intended to serve as a permanent residence for the family, even after William ascends to the throne.
By including the Prince and Princess of Wales, King Charles is setting a precedent that recognizes the increasing role William and Kate play in representing the monarchy and supporting British businesses.
Her selections are likely to spotlight businesses that align with her 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 royal family members for the first time in over a century. This marks a new phase in the relationship between the monarchy and British industry.