INTRODUCTION
By becoming a member of the World Traders, you will find yourself amongst a body of people all similarly qualified and motivated, who support the ethos and the good works of traditional City life. From the outset the World Traders were determined to be a working Guild, with members, from a wide range of professional backgrounds, that are connected with world trade and with the aim of raising awareness and understanding of, and standards of practice in, world trade.
Becoming a Liveryman offers a unique opportunity to participate in City life, both modern day business, voting for the City’s leaders and participating in traditions going back many centuries. Many members use the Company’s dinners as an unrivalled form of corporate hospitality!
With membership comes responsibilities. Members are encouraged to become involved with Company initiatives, such as our education and charitable efforts, our events, and our other committees wherever possible.
MEET the WORLD TRADERS:
We encourage those thinking about membership to join us at one of our informal monthly open day gatherings. Always attended by a cross section of World Traders and those wanting to find out more about us, it’s a relaxed sociable evening so stay for 10 minutes or for the evening, it’s entirely up to you, just let our Clerk know that you will be attending (see below).
Our informal gathering at Tower Suites, 100 Minories, London, EC3N 1JY at 6pm on the first Tuesday of each month. See below or Contact us to check the date of the next gathering, and feel free to turn up – no need to pre-book.
You can also book to attend other Company events before becoming a member by contacting the Clerk (below).
Our next Open Days will take place on the first Tuesday of the month throughout 2025. If you wish to attend (or if you just want a conversation with one of the membership team) to learn more about becoming a member, contact our Clerk, via clerk@world-traders.org
JOINING AND FURTHER INFORMATION
We have prepared a series of ‘frequently asked questions’ about joining the World Traders including the costs involved and the commitment expected. Please see the FAQ section below.
If you wish to start applying for membership please see links to our application forms below. You will also be asked to provide a CV and headshot photograph.
FAQ
Are there different types of membership?
Yes – most people join a Livery Company as a ‘Freeman’. However, if you are aged between 18 and 25, you can apply to join the World Traders as a ‘Journeyman’ at a reduced rate and remain as a journeyman through the age of 27. Both membership types allow you to attend events, get to know the other members, and become involved in most activities of the Company.
In due course, and with the support of the Company, you will be encouraged to apply for the Freedom of the City of London, an honour which has been granted since 1237. You will thereby become a ‘Citizen and World Trader of London’. Subsequent to achieving this, you could be considered for admission as a ‘Liveryman’ – a full member. This is dependent on your contribution to the work of the Company and your attendance at events over time.
As a Liveryman you will not only be able to take the fullest part in the activities of the Company but will in addition be eligible to vote in the annual elections for the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs and certain other City Officers.
How much does it cost?
Membership costs consist of two distinct elements – a one-off joining fee (known as ‘The Fine’) depending on your age, and an ongoing annual fee (known as ‘Quarterage’) again, depending on your age.
These are as follows:
Journeyman (aged 27 and under) – No fine then Quarterage of £70 and reduced to £68 if paid by Direct Debit or BACS.
Young Freeman (aged 35 and under) – Fine of £250 then Quarterage of £247.50, reduced to £237.50 if paid by Direct Debit or BACS.
Freemen aged over 35 and Liverymen – Fine of £500 then Quarterage of £495, reduced to £475 if paid by Direct Debit or BACS.
Additionally, all members are encouraged to set up a regular charitable donation to the Company’s charitable trust.
Why should I join the Worshipful Company of World Traders?
Many older established livery companies have diminished links with their trade (usually because that trade has itself diminished). This Company, however, is particularly keen that its members do have strong links with World Trade, so that we can play an active role in the promotion and encouragement of international trade. So membership of the Company is open to anyone with a connection to or interest in world trade in all its variety. To join us you will need someone to sponsor you and to have attended at least one Company event. This is why we encourage all those interested in being a member to join us at our monthly informal open house gatherings.
Do I need to know someone in the World Traders before I attend the monthly open house gathering?
No, you don’t need to know a member before considering joining us.
What are the benefits of membership?
Being a member provides you with countless opportunities and benefits within the City of London and globally. Experience the pageantry and understand the history and ancient traditions of the City of London. Attend stimulating events – business lunches, formal dinners, informal social events, industry visits, lectures and more. Give back to society – with your time, talent and money. Enjoy the fellowship of like-minded people. Increase your understanding of world trade and its impact. As a democratic Company, you could also have the opportunity to help shape the World Traders for future members.
What does ‘Commerce and honest friendship for all’ mean?
The Company motto ‘commerce and honest friendship with all’ was taken from Thomas Jefferson’s inaugural Presidential speech. Additionally, the Arms of the Company were designed by the late Sir Colin Cole, the then Garter King of Arms.