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    Placeholder image of people gathered at a Distillers’ Company occasion
    The Worshipful Company of Distillers

    At the heart of the world of spirits

    The Worshipful Company of Distillers brings together experience, expertise and generosity from across the spirits world. We develop talent, share knowledge, strengthen connections and create charitable impact.

    The Distillers’ CompanyNearly four centuries of tradition. A very modern purpose

    Since receiving our Royal Charter in 1638, The Worshipful Company of Distillers has been connected with the world of spirits.

    Today, we bring together people, knowledge and resources from across that world. We develop talent, share expertise, strengthen fellowship and create lasting charitable impact.

    Discover the Company

    Our workWhat we do

    The Company brings together knowledge, connections and resources to develop talent, create charitable impact and strengthen the world of spirits.

    • A speaker presenting to an audience at a Business of Spirits seminar

      Knowledge

      Sharing expertise Through education, mentoring, industry events and initiatives, we share knowledge and experience, support professional development and contribute to the future of the spirits industry.

      Education & mentoring
    • Thomas Loidet receiving the Worshipful Company of Distillers EMEA prize at a WSET awards ceremony.

      Charity

      Giving support Through The Distillers’ Charity, we create opportunities for young people, support those working in the drinks industry and contribute to City and Livery causes.

      Our charitable work
    • Liverymen in ceremonial gowns visiting a working distillery beside copper pot stills.

      Fellowship

      Making connections We bring together people from across the world of spirits, creating opportunities to meet, exchange ideas and build relationships across businesses, disciplines and generations.

      Our industry community

    Impact in numbersThe Distillers’ difference

    Members and partners give time, knowledge and funds. The Company puts that support to work.

    Reporting period: April 2025 to April 26

    • 3

      Education Partners

    • 47

      Mentors

    • 3

      Education Seminars

    • 29

      Bursaries

    See our work and impact
    A young woman laughing while seated on a cask in the warehouse at Ellers Farm Distillery.

    Work in actionOpening doors to a career in spirits

    Sophie Pashley, a distiller at Ellers Farm Distillery, received a bursary to study for the General Certificate in Distilling. The Company also helps through mentoring, introductions and hands-on experience.

    Read the story

    EventsComing together

    Industry briefings, educational talks, civic traditions and informal gatherings give members a chance to learn, meet and take part in Company life.

    • Silver vessels and a decanter from the Company’s collection.

      Ceremonies and City events

      Silent Ceremony: admission of the Lord Mayor

      Guildhall, London

      The Silent Ceremony marks the admission of the Lord Mayor at Guildhall.

    • The Distillers’ float and accompanying marchers in the Lord Mayor’s Show.

      Ceremonies and City events

      Lord Mayor’s Show

      The Lord Mayor’s Show takes place on 14 November.

    • Silver vessels and a decanter from the Company’s collection.

      Talks and education

      New members’ briefing

      Online

      An online briefing for new members takes place on 16 November.

    MembershipBring your experience to the Company

    People sit at the centre of The Worshipful Company of Distillers. Members contribute knowledge, ideas and connections, support the next generation, and take part in the civic and social life of the City of London.

    For people who want to contribute to the world of spirits, not simply work in it, membership offers lasting relationships, shared knowledge, fellowship, service and a distinctive connection to the City of London.

    History and heritageFour centuries of connection

    The Worshipful Company of Distillers received its Royal Charter from King Charles I in 1638 and was granted Livery status in 1672.

    Our traditions connect us to the history and civic life of the City of London. Today, that heritage gives us a platform to support people, share knowledge and contribute to the future of spirits.

    Discover our history and heritage

    NewsletterStay connected

    Occasional news, event announcements and stories from across The Distillers’ Company.