MEMBERSHIP

Unlike some other livery companies, all members must be associated in some way with the UK furnishing industry, making the Company a ‘closed’ livery� An ‘open’ livery is one that anyone can join irrespective of their trade

In order to become a member all applicants must be interviewed by the admissions committee� New members are often invited to join by an existing member Once the formalities are completed, applicants are admitted to the Company as a freeman�

Freeman

The admission ceremony for new freemen takes place at Furniture Makers’ Hall� Every incoming freeman will be asked to sign a declaration and will receive a certificate and badge from the Master New freemen can apply straightaway to join one of the committees that manage the charitable and corporate activities of the Company�

Liveryman

The status of freeman is the first stage on the way to becoming a liveryman - a full member - and this can readily be achieved within one or two years� Following a successful interview with the membership chairman, the clerk will then arrange for the applicant to receive the Freedom of the City of London which is presented at a ceremony at Guildhall and needs to take place before becoming a liveryman� The admission ceremony for new liverymen is held at the end of one of the four annual Court meetings� A new liveryman signs a declaration and receives a certificate and badge from the Master The new liverymen will be invited to join the Court for lunch or dinner after the ceremony�

Admission as a liveryman carries with it the entitlement to attend Common Hall for the elections of the Lord Mayor and the Sheriffs of the City of London�

Corporate Member

This tier of membership allows a large business to join as a corporate member, with three individuals from within that organisation joining as corporate liverymen� Corporate membership offers companies the opportunity to make a positive impact on the industry and to fulfill corporate social responsibility objectives, by supporting the Company’s charitable activities It allows these individuals to begin their own personal journey towards full livery membership which is strongly encouraged, should they so desire�

Corporate Supporter

Corporate supporter is a tier of membership for small and medium sized companies that wish to join the Company, with one individual from the business joining as a corporate freeman

Honorary Membership

An honorary member is appointed by the Court and by invitation only�

Membership Fees

The annual membership subscription is made up of two parts:

1 a membership fee

2 a donation to the charitable fund�