The COMPANY of MERCHANTS
of the STAPLE of ENGLAND

The Right Worshipful Company of the Merchants of the Staple of England
is one of the oldest mercantile corporations in England.

As early as the end of the 13th century, the merchants who became the Company, were dealing in the export of wool and other raw materials to the continent. It was incorporated by a Royal Charter in 1319 and controlled the export of wool and other goods to the continent. The Company was the significant force in Calais under the English rule until 1558. In 1617 a new Charter was granted by King James I and the company continued to operate in London where it had the Leadenhall building.

Today, with the Charter still existing, the Company runs a charitable trust with projects in the wool, textiles and agricultural sectors, as well as scholarships and bursaries.