Britain’s King Charles III has withdrawn royal warrants from Unilever and Cadbury, ending their recognition as suppliers to the Royal Family after criticism that both still conduct business in Russia. The decision, described by Cadbury as “disappointing,” was reported last week following the release of the second set of warrants during King Charles’ reign.
Royal warrants are given to companies that regularly provide goods or services to the royal household and allow these companies to display the Royal Arms on their products. Unilever, which owns brands like Dove, Ben & Jerry’s, Hellmann’s, and Mondelez, Cadbury’s parent company, received no specific explanation for the removals. According to the Royal Family’s website, warrants may not be renewed if the quality or supply of products or services is found lacking.
However, this change comes amid ongoing criticism from Ukraine’s government over these companies’ business activities in Russia. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, both Unilever and Mondelez have continued operations in Russia.
In June, the activist group B4Ukraine addressed an open letter to King Charles, urging him to withdraw royal warrants from companies including Mondelez and Unilever, alleging their presence in Russia is prolonging the conflict in Ukraine.
In response to the warrant cancellations, Mondelez expressed disappointment but respect for the decision, emphasizing pride in its long history of holding the royal warrant. Unilever similarly highlighted its longstanding service to the royal household and previous recognition by Queen Elizabeth II.
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