Meghan Markle urged to 'seek help' as new business hits major stumbling block

The brand, which plans to sell jams, dog biscuits, homewares, cooking utensils, and makeup, is already embroiled in a trademark dispute.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (UPSTO) has raised concerns about the logo design and the use of a geographical location in the brand name.

Hillary Fordwich, a business expert and former head of global business development at KPMG, warns that Meghan may need to change her product line or abandon the business altogether if it fails to generate satisfactory returns for investors.

Fordwich criticised Meghan's business acumen, stating: "Obviously, as an actress, Meghan lacks the business acumen in arenas such as securing a patent for the name American Riviera Orchard."

The expert emphasised the importance of seeking professional advice, adding: "Most business professionals don't have expertise in everything, but they are savvy enough to retain those who do."

Fordwich also highlighted the lack of unique products in Meghan's venture, suggesting a missed opportunity for differentiation.

"My suggestion would have been to come up with a really healthy brand of jam to maybe assist with dieting, that may have been a possible niche," she told The Express.

The expert believes Meghan's attractiveness and healthy image could have been leveraged to create a more credible market position.

The trademark dispute with UPSTO has raised significant concerns for American Riviera Orchard. The office questioned the design of a letter in the logo and warned that businesses cannot trademark geographical locations.

Fordwich emphasised the importance of hiring experts in unfamiliar business areas. She stated: "A basic piece of business advice is always turn to an expert or stay within your expertise."

The expert believes Meghan has not surrounded herself with enough business and legal expertise, leading to these issues.

"It is a recipe for disaster for anyone to be narcissistic enough to think they know all aspects of business," Fordwich added.

This lack of expert guidance could potentially hinder the brand's progress and success in an already competitive market.

Investor satisfaction remains a key concern for American Riviera Orchard. Fordwich warned: "If the sales don't satisfy investors if they cannot get a return on investment, they will be running at a loss."

The expert expressed doubt about Meghan's ability to maintain long-term commitment to her business ventures. "Thus far, none of their projects have had stickiness. I doubt from her track record she will stick with these products," Fordwich continued.

In a lighthearted comment, she suggested: "Perhaps it would be best to donate the jams to charity."

These remarks highlight the challenges facing Meghan's new brand, from financial viability to product sustainability.

As the official launch date remains uncertain, questions linger about the future of American Riviera Orchard and its ability to carve out a niche in the competitive lifestyle market.