Meghan Markle’s American Riviera Orchard Brand Faces Delay and Concerns Post-Launch
Meghan Markle's lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, remains product-less five months post-launch, raising alarms among experts. With plans to sell kitchenware and jams, its social media and website lack purchasing options. Trademark complications have emerged, and hiring a CEO has proven challenging due to the turnover at Archewell. Despite concerns, insiders affirm Meghan is eager for a successful launch.
Despite a lavish Instagram debut five months ago, Meghan Markle's lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard has yet to launch any products, raising concerns among industry experts about its viability moving forward.
The Delay in Product Launch
American Riviera Orchard was introduced to the public through an elaborate Instagram announcement, intending to offer kitchenware, jams, and jellies. However, the brand has only showcased a handful of products primarily to celebrity acquaintances. Both the brand's social media and website lack e-commerce functionality, presenting only a logo against a subdued backdrop instead of a shopping option.
Investor Concerns Highlighted
Industry expert Matt Yanofsky expressed serious reservations regarding the brand's direction, noting that investors would likely demand a clear business plan aimed at profitability or a revenue strategy within the next 60 to 90 days. Without these assurances, he suggested that investors might opt to withdraw their financing.
Trademark and Management Challenges
Compounding these concerns, the Duchess of Sussex recently faced legal hurdles regarding the trademark application for her lifestyle brand. Although she aimed to secure international trademark status for a broad range of products, irregularities were identified in the classification, necessitating corrections. The US Patents and Trademarks Office pointed out issues such as misclassification of items and outstanding fees totaling approximately $11,382 to facilitate the trademark registration process. Additionally, reports indicate difficulties in appointing a permanent CEO for American Riviera Orchard, with potential candidates deterred by the high staff turnover at Archewell, the organisation founded by Meghan and Prince Harry in 2020.
Supportive Sources Address Rumours
Despite speculation surrounding the brand's future, sources close to Meghan have downplayed these concerns. People Magazine reported that the Duchess is enthusiastic about launching her lifestyle brand, describing it as a project she has passionately pursued for some time. Videos showcasing her preparing floral arrangements and cooking in her kitchen were released in conjunction with the brand launch, prompting initial expectations of significant sales shortly thereafter.
Future Product Offerings and Brand Vision
An insider shared that American Riviera Orchard aims to resonate with the Duchess's personal interests, portraying it as a natural extension of her previous lifestyle blog, The Tig. Upcoming offerings are expected to include a variety of gourmet products such as spices, nut butters, jams, and unique spreads, aiming to captivate a diverse consumer market.
