The so-called guild of tenders and retailers of Barcelona (18th century), under the patronage of Archangel Saint Michael, was born as a brotherhood in 1447 and evolved into the current non-profit association. Throughout all this time, there have been two clear objectives. From the beginning until the extinction as a guild, like all guilds, the work of market regulation was essential, but so was the charitable aspect. Assisting members in times of need. This work, adapted to each period, has been extensively detailed in
numerous statutes and regulations developed over the years.

With the “Law of Associations” of February 29, 1839, the regulatory aspect came to an end, and the few remaining guilds disappeared. The guild of tenders and retailers of Barcelona transformed into an “association,” where they transferred their assets. From that moment on, the members could pursue other professions; they no longer had to be retailers, and they were no longer required to pay dues. Also from this point on, entry into the organization would only be through primogeniture, a rule that remains in force. Since then, the organization, despite the various legal forms it has had to adopt to survive under different administrations, has fulfilled its role with its members, who are direct descendants of the former confreres and later guild members.