Royal Warrant Holders

Suttons Royal Warrant is a prestigious mark of recognition for supplying Flower and Vegetable seeds to the Household of HM The King.

The Royal Warrant is the actual document that appoints Suttons in its trading capacity as 'Seedsmen' and gives permission and responsibility to us to display the Royal Arms in connection with our business.

History of the Royal Warrant and Suttons

Suttons has had the privilege of supplying flower seeds and vegetable seeds to the Royal Family since the 1850s, beginning with Her Majesty Queen Victoria. The honour of holding a Royal Warrant has been graciously bestowed upon us since 1871. Since then, we have been both delighted and immensely proud to bear this esteemed mark of distinction.

The origins of the Royal Warrant can be traced back to the medieval era, when securing Royal favour was fiercely contested and the Sovereign enjoyed their choice of the nations premier craftspeople. By the 15th century, the Lord Chamberlain, as head of the Royal Household, formally recognised these trusted suppliers by bestowing upon them a Royal Warrant of Appointment  a distinguished tradition that continues to flourish today.

By the 18th century, those honoured with this privilege began proudly displaying the Royal Arms on their premises and stationery. In 1840, these esteemed holders united to form the Royal Warrant Holders Association. There are currently only 538 companies world-wide which hold a Royal Warrant.

Committed to Sustainability

Sustainability continues to be a guiding principle for the Royal Household and will remain a key consideration for all who hold a Royal Warrant. As we face the urgent, intertwined crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, the opportunity for meaningful action grows ever more limited. Yet, through determined individual efforts and collaborative partnerships, both the Royal Household and its warrant holders can help forge a more sustainable future for the United Kingdom and the wider world.

Suttons is wholeheartedly committed to sustainability, reducing its carbon footprint, and addressing climate change. In line with these values, the company became a Planet Mark Certified organisation in 2024. Key initiatives include the introduction of eco-friendly packaging and the adoption of sustainable sourcing throughout the supply chain. Suttons continues to work closely with its partners, with the aim to grow all plants in peat-free compost. Indeed, those cultivated at Suttons own nurseries are already 100% peat free, and by 2025, every plant available in retail outlets will also be entirely pesticide free.

Learn more about Suttons sustainability journey here.