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The Worshipful Company of World Traders, its Court and members wish to congratulate Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli on his admission as the Lord Mayor of the City of London.

As the Mother Company to the Lord Mayor, we are deeply honoured to support him and the Lady Mayoress, Elisabeth throughout their time in this historic office.

The Mayoral theme for 2023/24, Connect to Prosper, is a demonstration of the Lord Mayor’s commitment to cultivating a network of knowledge in the City for its residents, businesses and leaders, and highlighting London’s key role in global trade as the world’s ‘coffeehouse’.

These principles closely align with our own. Since our beginnings, World Traders have provided wonderful opportunities to members and partners to expand their network, and exchange thoughts and ideas about the future of international trade. Importantly, we have remained committed to supporting the education and training of young people as our future success depends upon them.

The Company’s Float

A representation of the City of London’s intrinsic role in global trade and economy, our float for the 2023 show depicted monuments from the iconic cityscape, including Tower Bridge, the Gherkin, and the Cheesegrater.

Designed and developed by Company member, Wil White, the float demonstrates the World Traders’ commitment to a diverse range of businesses and professionals in the UK and further afield. And importantly, our duty to unify the historic significance of the City, with its current influence, and future potential.

The Historic Procession

Each year, the order of the procession is different, designed to reflect the interests of the current Lord Mayor, the changing patterns of City life, and the creativity of the Show’s participants.

As the Mother Company, the World Traders’ float processed fifth in line in the 2023 Show, directly behind Gog and Magog, the traditional guardians of the City of London. The float was joined by a number of World Traders, showing their support for the day, and this historic time for the Company.

Discover more photos from the day…

A modern, vibrant and active Livery Company working within a fine tradition.

First formed in 1985, the Worshipful Company of World Traders exists as a body of members in all fields of trading in goods and services, including international financial services.

We have nearly 300 members from diverse professions and backgrounds who come together for social and business events, and to focus on our charitable and educational efforts.

The Company is a membership organisation affiliated with a charitable trust. We proudly provide funding and other support to the education of young people, as well as a range of non-profit organisations.

The Company received its Letters Patent in a ceremony at Mansion House, from the Lord Mayor, Alderman Clive Martin on 25th January 2000 – making it the first Livery Company appointed in the new millennium. Our Royal Charter was granted by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2013.

With deepest thanks to our sponsors for supporting the Lord Mayor’s Show 2023:

Discover more

Click here to find out more about the new Lord Mayor’s election.

Click here to find out more about the Lord Mayor Michael Mainelli’s theme, Connect to Prosper. 

Click here to find out more about becoming a member of the Worshipful Company of World Traders. (The image shows the Lord Mayor performing his duties when Master of the Company.)