Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard is struggling to get off the ground as she’s having an issue finding a CEO, according to a report.
The Duchess of Sussex, 43, unveiled her new business venture in March teasing its impending launch. But six months later, there’s still no release date or information about the products customers can expect to be up for sale.
A source has suggested that the delay has been a direct result of Markle’s struggle to hire a CEO.
Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard is struggling to get off the ground as she’s having an issue finding a CEO, according to a report. ZUMAPRESS.com
“The numbers don’t lie and to have almost 20 members of staff quitting on them tells its own story,” a source told Closer of Markle’s setback. “It’s unprecedented, even for a startup.”
“The brutal reality is Harry and Meghan are the toughest of taskmasters, they’re very demanding and difficult to work for and that puts a lot of people’s backs up,” the insider added.
While products from her brand are not available to buy yet, Markle sent out jars of strawberry jam to an exclusive group of celebs in April, prompting a “strong start” to the company’s rollout.
Since then, the mom of two sent dog biscuits to her celeb pals, and has teased a future rosé wine range.
The Duchess of Sussex, 43, unveiled her new business venture in March teasing its impending launch. American Riviera Orchard
Earlier this year, reports claiming that the “Suits” alum was seeking out investors began to circulate.
“I imagine the pop-ups and the seeding, and a series of dinners will continue until some kind of official launch,” Branding strategist Lucie Greene told the Sun in July.
“It could be that she’s still courting investment,” she continued. “If the brand is direct to consumer, versus wholesale, there will need to be a substantial marketing budget for consumer acquisition.”
“It’s unclear what leadership she has in place at this point, too,” she went on. “It could be that the jams were the precursor and example to show proof of concept to talent and investors.”
The Post has reached out to Markle’s reps for comment.
While products from her brand are not available to buy yet, Markle sent out jars of strawberry jam to an exclusive group of celebs in April. Delfina Blaquier / Instagram
According to those close to the former actress, the brand’s name is a sweet nod to Santa Barbara, Calif., as it has been nicknamed the “American Riviera” for over a century.
The location is also where she and Prince Harry reside with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Additionally, a trademark application revealed the brand plans to sell tableware, drinkware, decanters, kitchen linens and edible treats such as jellies, jams, marmalade and spreads.
Start your day with all you need to know
Morning Report delivers the latest news, videos, photos and more.
Thanks for signing up! Enter your email address
Please provide a valid email address.
By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Never miss a story.
Check out more newsletters
Earlier this year, it was reported that Markle could be looking to make a whopping 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, quit after just three months on the job.
Earlier this month, the couple’s chief of staff, Josh Kettler, quit after just three months on the job, making him the 18th staffer to hand in his resignation. Getty Images for W+P
The reason for Kettler’s departure was revealed earlier this month — just one day before he was due to accompany the Sussexes on their trip to Colombia.
He was the 18th member of staff working for the couple to hand in his resignation.
