British chocolate maker Cadbury loses status as main supplier, as does Unilever

For the first time in 170 years, the British chocolate manufacturer Cadbury can no longer call itself a purveyor. The name disappeared at the same time as those of a hundred other people, brands and companies from the list that are allowed to use the coat of arms of the British king and state.

It is not known why the decision was made: Buckingham Palace does not explain the decisions. Cadbury and the others are given a year to remove the coat of arms from all their packaging.

The Birmingham company is the UK’s best-known chocolate manufacturer and has been so for a long time. Queen Victoria (1819-1901) was probably also a fan. In 1854 she granted the company the right to settle royal warrant holder or purveyor to the court.

That was thirty years after founder John Cadbury had opened a greengrocer in the same city where he also sold cocoa and a chocolate drink.

The privilege to bear the coat of arms can be granted to companies that supply the court and strive for the highest level of service, quality and craftsmanship, according to the website of the Royal Warrant Holders Association. The list is regularly updated. The award is valid for five years.

Cadbury’s American owner, Mondolez International, reacts resignedly. “Although disappointed, we are proud to have been the main supplier and we fully respect the decision,” the company said.

About a hundred other names also disappeared from the list, including the former British-Dutch multinational Unilever. That of Queen Camilla’s hairdresser was added, as was that of the jeweler who supplied the rings for the wedding to King Charles.