Meghan Markle has hit another snag in launching her much-anticipated lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard.
The Duchess of Sussex proudly unveiled her new venture this year through a dedicated website and an Instagram page that received substantial attention.
However, despite the reveal, only Meghan's celebrity pals have had a taste of her products, having shared images of the brand's jam on social media back in April.
To the disappointment of eager consumers, the products remain unavailable for purchase via the website.
Adding to the setback, last month it was disclosed that Meghan's request for trademarking the brand was initially denied, prompting a three-month deadline to address the "nonfinal officer action" from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), or face the chance of her application being dropped.
The latest challenge comes as her attempts to secure the trademark are contested by the owners of the 'Royal Riviera' label. 'Royal Riviera', which belongs to Harry and David, the well-known American retailer specialising in fine foods and gifts, includes their celebrated 'Royal Riviera Pears' grown in Oregon.
A protest letter submitted to the USPTO argues there's a 'likelihood of confusion'. Now, the matter is in the hands of Marco Wright, the Trademark Office's examining attorney, for further consideration, reports the Mirror.
A trademark application for American Riveria Orchard was first lodged on February 2, detailing ambitions to market kitchenware, drinkware, and jams with the name. American Riviera Orchard has yet to debut any products, despite launching its Instagram presence seven months ago.
The application, submitted to USPTO by Mama Knows Best, LLC, reveals further connections, as two more applications related to American Riviera Orchard have been filed by the company to date. Registered at the same Beverly Hills address as Harry and Meghan's Archewell Organisation is Mama Knows Best, LLC.
A source from the US remarked to the Mirror recently: "The process for acquiring a trademark is extremely rigorous. It would be a surprise if Meghan had not received one before in trying to get her application through. She is still very much committed to her brand and has three months to respond. There is no way this will lead to abandonment."
This emerges amidst reports of Prince Harry and Meghan experiencing a significant transition, underscored by their recent independent public appearances. Just a few years back, Meghan likened herself and Harry to "salt and pepper", citing their habitual coordination in movement.
However, with such instances seemingly less frequent following their Colombia tour in August, speculation abounds regarding the reasons behind the change.
A source close to the couple revealed that their recent separate public engagements are due to a change in their individual projects. Speaking to People magazine, a friend explained: "It's clear that a twin-track approach is evolving."
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Another close contact remarked: "The Duke and Duchess have now hit their stride as individuals – not just as a couple. The Duke appears focused on his patronage work, and the Duchess focused on her entrepreneurial track."
They elaborated further saying: "An entrepreneurial and enterprise focus is going to be more the Duchess's priority and the Duke will continue to champion his not-for-profit patronages. But there will be joint efforts around those cause-driven areas of work."
Amidst speculation about Meghan’s recent low profile, the insider advocated it shows no signs of trouble but reflects their commitment as parents stating that it's common for one of them to stay behind with the children.
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