Meghan Markle has hit a major roadblock as her husband Prince Harry connects with loved ones in the UK. The Duchess of Sussex appears to be under increasing pressure as recent events unfold rapidly, including challenges surrounding her US brand Riviera Orchard.
Meghan’s latest venture hit a major stumbling block when the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) rejected his trademark application. According informationthe former Suits Star has been given three months to respond to the “non-final official action” issued by the USPTO. If it does not address the concerns raised, the application could be abandoned.
The setback follows delays in product launches for the brand, which has yet to unveil any items to the public despite a high-profile launch on Instagram five months ago. The USPTO outlined several reasons for rejecting the application, detailed in a 48-page document. These include the need for clearer product descriptions, compliance with multiple class application rules and the removal of descriptive terms related to “Riviera.”
Officials found descriptions of items such as “cocktail napkins,” “frying pans” and “kitchen utensils” to be too vague. In addition, the brand name was flagged for being geographically descriptive, which could create problems for others who want to use similar terms to describe their products, according to reports. The express.
A Insider information explained The challenges Markle faces, stating, “The process for acquiring a trademark is extremely rigorous. It would be a surprise if Meghan had not received one earlier when trying to get her application approved.” However, the source stressed that Meghan remains committed to her brand and is expected to respond within the three-month timeframe. “There is no way this will lead to abandonment,” they added.
Meanwhile, the brand marketing expert Matt Yanofsky expressed Concerns about the future of Meghan’s brand, warning that investors would likely push for a clearer business plan. “If I were an investor, I would say, ‘You need to find a CEO with a straightforward business plan that shows profitability or at least a revenue plan within the next 60 to 90 days,’” Yanofsky said.
Adding to the pressure, Prince Harry is reportedly reconnecting with friends and allies in the UK, signalling a possible desire to rekindle the life he left behind when he and Meghan moved to the US. The timing of Harry restarting his relationships in the UK could further complicate matters for Meghan as she faces challenges to her brand.