Among the brands are Heinz, Twinings, Schweppes and Tabasco pepper.
The death of Queen Elizabeth II on the 8th, in addition to all the worldwide commotion, brings a curious fact. About 875 brands must stop using the coat of arms of the British crown on their labels, an attribute that is achieved when they prove that their products are consumed by royalty. Among the brands are Heinz, Twinings, Schweppes and Tabasco pepper.
In order to use the royal symbols, companies have to obtain “Royal Warrants”, a document that is now annulled with the death of the monarch. According to the Royal Warrant Holders Association, companies can use the elements of the monarchy for up to two years, as long as there is no significant change in the company in question. “The Royal House reviews the granting of warrants after a change in the reigning sovereign”, he explains.
In the reign of Elizabeth II, the arms of the crown were represented by the lion of England, the unicorn of Scotland and a shield divided into four quarters, accompanied by the words “by appointment to Her Majesty the Queen”. With the accession of a new one, Charles III, son of the Queen of Elizabeth, the British monarchy will have new symbols, which have yet to be defined.
Until then, the decision on whether or not to give the “Royal Warrants” to the company rested with the queen and then prince. Now, the expectation is that, in addition to the monarch, the queen consort Camilla Parker Bowles will also sign the titles to the brands. It is also speculated that the king will also grant Prince William the ability to issue his own titles.
The Royal Warrant is granted for up to five years and may be reviewed for renewal one year prior to expiration. According to the association, between 20 and 40 warrants are granted – a similar number canceled each year.
