A Family Connection Spanning Generations
As PEOPLE reports, the royal family’s bond with Launer dates back to the 1950s when the Queen Mother purchased her first handbag from the brand. She later passed pieces from her collection to her daughter, who used them for essentials like makeup, sweeteners, and a coin purse.
Founded in the 1940s by Sam Launer, a Czech immigrant who fled wartime Europe with his family, Launer London became a favorite of Queen Elizabeth. Her loyalty to the brand endured until her final days — she was seen carrying one of their handbags during her last official engagement, meeting Prime Minister Liz Truss at Balmoral Castle on September 6, 2022. Just two days later, she passed away peacefully at her beloved Scottish home.
Remembering the Queen’s Loyalty
Launer London’s CEO, Gerald Bodmer, reflected on how deeply honored the company felt by the Queen’s devotion to the brand. Speaking to PEOPLE, he recalled: “I’m amazed how she carried on carrying her bag with a walking stick. She [once] said to me, ‘I don’t feel dressed without a handbag.’”
He also offered a glimpse into the late monarch’s private demeanor: “She was absolutely charming, delightful, and ordinary — she was just like the lady next door. She was aware of everything, very smart.”
The Future of Royal Warrants
According to GB News, a company must supply goods or services to the royal household for a minimum of five to seven years to qualify for a royal warrant. Currently, only senior working royals can issue them, with authority traditionally vested in the monarch. King Charles, who has held this power since 1980, recently extended the privilege to Prince William and Princess Kate, who will begin granting royal warrants themselves from 2026.
