The Worshipful Company of Fruiterers is one of the Livery Companies of the City of London. It ranks 45th in the order of precedence among the City Livery Companies.
History The Company's origins date back to the 13th century, with the first recorded ordinances appearing in 1363. It received a Royal Charter from King Charles II in 1677, formally incorporating the "Master, Wardens, and Commonalty of the Art or Mystery of Fruiterers of the City of London." Historically, the Company regulated the fruit trade within the City, ensuring quality standards, fair weights and measures, and the proper training of apprentices.
Function and Governance Like other Livery Companies, the Fruiterers transitioned from a trade regulatory body to a charitable and ceremonial institution. It is governed by the Master, two Wardens (Upper and Renter), and a Court of Assistants. The Company's administrative headquarters is located at Fruiterers' Hall, situated in the ward of Dowgate. The current hall, opened in 2003, replaces previous halls destroyed in the Great Fire of London (1666) and the Blitz (1941).
Charitable Activities The Company operates the Fruiterers' Company Charitable Fund, which supports educational initiatives related to horticulture, agriculture, and the fruit industry. It provides scholarships, bursaries, and awards to students at institutions such as the Royal Agricultural University, Writtle University College, and Pershore College. The Company also supports the City of London's broader charitable ecosystem, including the Lord Mayor's Appeal.
Membership Membership comprises Freemen and Liverymen. Admission is typically by patrimony (heritage), servitude (apprenticeship), or redemption (general application). The Company maintains strong links with the modern fresh produce industry, including importers, wholesalers, retailers, and horticulturalists.
Symbols and Traditions The Company's coat of arms features a shield with three pomegranates slipped and leaved, a reference to the fruit historically associated with the guild. The motto is "Deus Dat Incrementum" (God gives the increase). The Company participates in the annual United Guilds Service at St Paul's Cathedral and the Lord Mayor's Show.
