The livery company – or guild – tradition stretches back hundreds of years. Some of the older UK livery companies include the Mercers (1394), the Merchant Taylors (1327) and the Grocers (1428); newer arrivals include the Insurers (1979), the Marketors (1977) and, of course, the Information Technologists (1992).

The origins of livery companies

Livery companies began when people involved in the same craft or trade started making informal arrangements amongst themselves to regulate competition, maintain standards and protect each other in times of sickness or hardship. The companies also helped to preserve knowledge and skills for future generations.

Formal structures

Over the years, livery companies developed formal structures. Each company was led by an elected master and had its own headquarters or livery hall. Royal charters gave them control over their own craft and the right to acquire property. Companies usually had four types of member:

• Apprentices – the usual entry to a trade or craft was through a seven-year apprenticeship.
• Journeymen – craftsmen who had served their apprenticeship.
• Freemen – craftsmen granted the freedom of the City of London.
• Liverymen – freemen with their own businesses were admitted as full members of the company.

What does ‘livery’ mean?

The term 'livery' refers to the distinctive badges or clothes worn by company members. Ceremonial dress is still worn on official occasions.

Livery companies today

The livery tradition – with its emphasis on shared values, high standards, innovation and integrity – remains as relevant today as ever. All livery companies have close links with the Corporation of London.