How did guild hold freemen down?

Guilds held freemen down by imposing strict regulations on trade practices and restricting membership to a select group, thereby limiting competition and controlling market access. They often established apprenticeship systems that required lengthy training periods, effectively barring many from entering skilled trades. Additionally, guilds could enforce price controls and set standards that disadvantaged non-members, reinforcing their power and influence over the economy. This created an environment where only those within the guilds could thrive, while outsiders faced significant barriers to success.