Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand sparks controversy: Royal experts weigh in
Meghan Markle's latest venture into the world of lifestyle brands, American Riviera Orchard, has stirred up quite a storm, especially among royal experts who are questioning its controversial name and the broader implications it carries.
The Duchess of Sussex made the announcement of her brand through a video shared on Instagram, garnering a whopping 500,000 followers in no time.
With plans to produce and sell an array of products, including jams, aligning with her upcoming cookery show for Netflix, the brand seems poised for success on the surface.
However, it's the choice of name that's causing a stir in the royal circles.
Kinsey Schofield, speaking on The Rita Panahi Show on Sky News Australia, likened "American Riviera Orchard" to "a senior living facility."
This comparison underscores the skepticism surrounding Meghan's branding decisions and raises questions about the brand's identity and market positioning.
Critics question Meghan Markle's branding strategy
Furthermore, Schofield highlighted Meghan's attempt to integrate herself into the Santa Barbara community, despite having resided there for only four years.
Schofield's observation about Meghan's relatively short tenure in Santa Barbara juxtaposed with her continued association with her duchess title for nearly 90 months brings attention to the perceived incongruity of Meghan's identity positioning.
In a world where brand names carry significant weight and symbolism, Meghan's choice of "American Riviera Orchard" appears to be a strategic move aimed at solidifying her presence in the affluent Santa Barbara community.
However, the swift backlash from royal observers underscores the challenges Meghan faces in balancing her royal past with her present endeavors.
As Meghan navigates the complexities of her post-royal life, the reception to her lifestyle brand serves as a poignant reminder of the scrutiny she continues to face, even in her entrepreneurial pursuits.
Only time will tell how American Riviera Orchard fares amidst the ongoing debates and controversies surrounding Meghan's public image and her aspirations beyond the royal sphere.