Meghan Markle has encountered further setbacks in establishing her anticipated lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. Earlier this year, the Duchess of Sussex introduced the brand with a website and Instagram account, generating excitement. However, since then, her products have only been shared among celebrity affiliates who showcased her jam this past April, with no items available for public sale.
Complicating matters, her trademark application was recently rejected, requiring her to respond to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) within three months to avoid abandoning the application. Additionally, a protest against the trademark has been filed by the owners of the existing Royal Riviera trademark, associated with Harry & David, which markets its Royal Riviera Pears from Oregon. The case has been referred to the USPTO’s examining attorney, Marco Wright.
The American Riviera Orchard trademark application, submitted on February 2, detailed plans to sell kitchenware, drinkware, and jams, yet seven months have passed without any product launch. Meanwhile, recent reports indicate that Meghan and Prince Harry are adopting a more independent approach to their careers. Sources suggest they are evolving toward individual entrepreneurial paths while maintaining joint efforts in their charitable endeavors.