What is The Guild of Master Craftsmen?
The Guild of Master Craftsmen Ltd is a family owned business, established in 1976. Members work in over 400 different crafts and trades including a sector dedicated to Retail and Service.
The Guild of Master Craftsmen is the UKs leading trade association with members in many different trades, crafts and professions. Most members, but by no means all, are involved in traditional craft occupations often associated with the building trade.

How to apply?
To apply you can telephone the Guild or submit your details online. A representative who covers your area will then telephone you to discuss membership without obligation, answer any questions you may have and arrange to meet you to complete an application form.
Phone number: 01273 478449
Online registration:
http://www.guildmc.com/trade/how-to-apply.asp

What are the minimum requirements?
Applicants should have been practising their trade for at least 2 years, Details of five recent customers are required and The Guild will send each a confidential questionnaire to obtain opinions about the standard of craftsmanship and service provided by the Applicant. The Guild seeks confirmation of high standards and a professional business manner.

How much does membership cost?
The annual membership fee is calculated based on the size of the business and number of employees as assessed by one of our representatives. However, the cost of membership is easily outweighed by the benefits, cost savings and the business help and advice that The Guild can offer the individual member. Costs vary depending on size of business and membership type but membership can start from as little as from £6 a week.

How long will it take before the applicant is accepted?
The Guild advices that applicants allow at least 4 weeks. The amount of time can vary as acceptance is dependent on us receiving satisfactory references for the applicant’s work, and clearance of payment.

What are the benefits of membership?
In order to operate profitably, every business needs to have expert advice readily available. Guild membership allows you access to a range of professional services, which include advice on insurance, financial services, health and safety issues, legal matters, sales and marketing, and business consultancy.
In addition The Guild operates credit vetting procedures, a debt collection service to ensure you get paid for the work you do, and, in the event of a customer complaint, a conciliation service to help settle disputes.

Can The Guild help me promote my business?
The Guild’s logo is the best advertising tool on the market. The Guild has an enviable reputation earned over many years for representing, craftsmanship and customer service. Members benefit by displaying The Guild’s instantly recognisable and distinctive emblems which represents a badge of trust and quality.
The Guild’s website, http://www.findacraftsman.com/  is a unique and exclusive search engine for our members, it allows the public to find a member for any trade or craft close to where they live.
The Guild also organises advertising features throughout the year in local press and directories across the country which helps promote its members regularly at low discounted rates.
The Guild’s website offers a free member-to-member advertising section where you can promote your business within the membership. For those members with websites we also have a weblink exchange section so other members can find out more information about your products and services.

What else you should know about The Guild?
The Guild is part of the GMC group which also publishes 10 consumer magazines, and countless craft and hobby books.
Harrods, The Ritz, and Rolls Royce are among the Guild’s members.

Website: http://www.guildmc.com/ 
Phone number: 01273 478449

Address:
The Guild of Master Craftsmen
166 High Street,
Lewes,
East Sussex
BN7 1XU

Special thanks to Richard Walsh from The Guild for his help

Artur Wielgus