Becoming a Hofleverancier (Purveyor to the Royal Court)

  • Edited 22 January 2025
  • 1 min
  • Managing and growing

Nearly 600 companies in the Netherlands have been designated Hofleverancier. Or Purveyor to the Royal Court. But what exactly does that mean? And what does such a title add?

In the past, Hofleveranciers were literally businesses that supplied the Royal Court. Those days are behind us, but it is still quite challenging to become a Hofleverancier. It is a royal appreciation for the significance of your business to society. And for your way of doing business.

Requirements

To receive the honorary title of purveyor to the royal house, you have to meet a number of conditions.

  • You have a small or medium-sized business that plays an important role in your region.
  • Your business must have a faultless reputation. This means, among other things, that your business has always paid all its bills properly and has not been involved in any legal problems.
  • Your business has been in existence for at least 100 years. Preferably all this time under the same name.
  • You can only apply for this title for a special anniversary, such as a 100th or 125th anniversary of your company.

For the exact requirements and the application procedure, visit the website of the Royal Court. 

Marketing tool

In addition to serving as a badge of honour, being a Hofleverancier can also be a valuable marketing tool that represents your company’s values and shows its importance to the region. And you get to use the Royal Coat of Arms on your building, letterhead, and website. 

Applying for the Hofleverancier title

You can apply for Hofleverancier status to the mayor of your company’s place of business. The King's Commissioner then thoroughly investigates you and your company and forwards your application with his advice to the King. The King ultimately decides whether you are awarded Hofleverancier status, and he may reject your application without stating reasons. The process from application to granting the status takes approximately one year, so make sure to apply well before your anniversary. 

Validity

Hofleverancier status remains valid for up to 25 years. After this period, you can apply for an extension, for which you have to go through the application procedure a second time. There are no annual checks or tests to prove that you still meet the requirements, but you are obliged to protect your good reputation. If you fail to do so, the King may decide to revoke your Hofleverancier status. 

Royal company

Large companies, associations, and foundations with national significance are given a different designation. Namely ‘Koninklijke' or 'Royal'. These companies can include these titles in their company name and can use the royal crown in their logo.

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