Cadbury chocolate is no longer a royal favourite as King Charles III withdraws the royal seal of approval.
Cadbury, the beloved British chocolate brand, has lost its royal warrant for the first time in 170 years.
The decision follows King Charles III's initial review of the list since ascending the throne in September 2022 after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
Royal warrants, regarded as a hallmark of quality, allow companies to display royal arms on their products, packaging, and premises, influencing consumer choices.
Cadbury first received this honour in 1854 from Queen Victoria and was known to be a favourite of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Campaign group B4Ukraine earlier this year called for the removal of warrants from companies operating in Russia after its invasion of Ukraine.
Mondelez International, Cadbury’s parent company, was among those highlighted, alongside Bacardi, Nestlé, and Unilever, which produces the iconic Marmite.
While Bacardi and Nestlé retained their warrants, Cadbury was one of over 100 firms absent from the updated list of 386 royal warrant holders.
Mondelez’s spokesperson expressed disappointment, noting Cadbury’s enduring place in British culture and its position as the "nation’s favourite chocolate".
They emphasised respect for the royal decision, despite not being awarded a new warrant. Similarly, Unilever acknowledged the royal household’s authority over such decisions, highlighting its brands' long-standing royal connections.
Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on the reasons behind these decisions. The review marks a significant moment under King Charles III’s reign, reshaping the prestigious royal warrant list for the modern era.
IOL Lifestyle