Last Updated on 11/02/2026
The term livery originally referred to the distinctive clothing issued to the retainers of a noble household. Over time, the concept evolved into a form of special dress denoting membership and status within a particular trade or craft. From these traditions, the City of London’s livery companies emerged.
These companies developed out of medieval Guilds, many of which became formal Corporations under Royal Charter. They were responsible not only for training within their trades and crafts but also for regulating wages, labour conditions and industry standards. Early guilds frequently grew out of parish‑based fraternal organisations, where members of the same trade lived close to one another and used the parish church, the only place large enough as their main gathering point.
While Liverymen no longer hold any wider local authority franchise within the City of London, they retain a unique and historic privilege:
they alone are entitled to vote in the elections of:
- The Lord Mayor at Michaelmas Common Hall (29 September)
- The two Sheriffs at Midsummer Common Hall (24 June)
Both elections take place at Guildhall and remain significant ceremonial occasions.
Liverymen (a term applicable to all genders), are expected to support their Company through active participation, attendance at events and charitable engagement. In return, they enjoy fellowship with fellow members, the opportunity to contribute to their trade, craft or profession, and a continued connection to the culture and heritage of the City of London.
