On March 14, 2024, Meghan Markle announced her project, American Riviera Orchard, a brand that promises to be a reflection of her personal passions, encompassing everything from cuisine to home décor.
This project aspires to become a benchmark within the lifestyle realm, offering a holistic experience that celebrates family, culinary art, entertaining, and interior design.
However, despite the initial excitement surrounding the brand’s announcement, information about its progress has been scarce over the past five months.
Rumors are circulating suggesting that American Riviera Orchard may be facing unanticipated challenges, which has led to speculation about the current status of the project and its official market launch.
American Riviera Orchard’s Problems
According to press reports, the Duchess of Sussex has begun the international registration process for her “American Riviera Orchard” service, with a view to a major launch next year.
However, MailOnline reveals that “irregularities” were found in the registrations in July, some four months after the initial application, which require correction.
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has notified the Sussexes’ attorneys of several problems, including misclassification of products.
To top it off, fees totaling $11,382 must be paid to various international entities to complete the trademark registration.
On the other hand, a celebrity PR expert has commented to GBNews that Meghan’s brand’s social media strategy, characterized by its minimalism, could alienate potential customers, affecting the popularity and success of the business.
According to the expert, Prince Harry’s wife seeks to promote a particular lifestyle through a variety of projects and products in development, but her communication approach is almost cryptic, failing to establish a direct connection with the audience.