Senior royals join monarch to honour UK business leaders at King’s Award reception
Princess Anne and Duchess Sophie made a rare joint appearance to support King Charles at a special royal reception held at Windsor Castle, as the monarch continues his public duties while undergoing cancer treatment.
The event celebrated the recipients of the King’s Award for Enterprise 2025 — the UK’s most prestigious honour for business excellence. King Charles was joined by senior royals including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal, and the Duke of Gloucester.
The reception highlighted British industry success stories, with awardees sharing how the honour has helped elevate their businesses globally. One guest told the King it had provided a “shot in the arm,” especially in competitive markets like the United States.
Royal correspondent Rebecca English reported that the King enjoyed lighthearted exchanges with attendees, including designer Lisa Kay, known for her footwear brand worn by Queen Camilla. “She likes a heel that is not too narrow,” the King remarked, to which Kay responded, “Yes, a block heel.” The monarch nodded in agreement, adding, “It gets a bit harder to walk in heels as you get older.”
In a video shared by English, both Princess Anne and Duchess Sophie were seen smiling warmly as they engaged with guests, reflecting their steady presence within the royal fold.
Originally established by Queen Elizabeth II in 1965, the King’s Award for Enterprise continues to recognise outstanding achievements in innovation, international trade, and sustainable development.
