Meghan Markle’s American Riviera Orchard lifestyle brand is struggling to get off the ground as it struggles to find a CEO, according to a report.
The Duchess of Sussex, 43, revealed her new business venture in March, teasing the upcoming launch. But six months later, there’s still no release date or information about what products customers can expect to see on sale.
A source suggested the delay was a direct result of Markle’s struggle to hire a CEO.
“Those numbers don’t add up and if there are almost 20 staff members quitting, it tells its own story,” said a source closer to Markle’s situation. “It’s unprecedented, even for a startup.”
“The harsh reality is that Harry and Meghan are the toughest taskmasters, they are very demanding and difficult to work for and that takes a lot of people’s support,” the insider said.
Although products from her brand are not yet available for purchase, Markle sent jars of strawberry jam to an exclusive group of celebrities in April, sparking a “strong start” to the company’s rollout.
Since then, the mother-of-two has sent dog biscuits to her celebrity pals, and has been teasing a future rosé wine range.
Earlier this year, reports claiming the “Suits” alum was looking for investors began circulating.
“I envisioned the pop-ups and seeding, and a series of dinners will continue until some sort of official launch,” branding strategist Lucie Greene told The Sun in July.
“She may still be flirting with investment,” she continued. “If the brand is direct to consumer, as opposed to wholesale, a substantial marketing budget will be required to acquire consumers.”
“It’s not clear what kind of leadership she has in place at this point either,” she continued. “The jams could have been a precursor and example to show proof of concept to talent and investors.”
The Post has reached out to Markle’s representatives for comment.
According to those close to the former actress, the brand’s name is a sweet nod to Santa Barbara, California, as it has been nicknamed the “American Riviera” for over a century.
It is also the location where she and Prince Harry live with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
In addition, a trademark application revealed that the brand plans to sell tableware, drinkware, decorators, kitchen linens and edibles such as jellies, jams, marmalade and spreads.
Earlier this year, it was reported that Markle could be looking to make an impressive seven-figure sum within the first year of launching the brand.
Rumors of business woes come just weeks after the couple’s chief of staff, Josh Kettler, resigned after three months in the job.
The reason for Kettler’s departure was revealed earlier this month – one day before he was due to join the Sussexes on their trip to Colombia.
He was the 18th member of staff working for the couple to quit.
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