Amid Meghan Markle and Prince Harry‘s plans to return to the UK, a celebrity chef has predicted a harsh future for her lifestyle brand, As Ever. The former actress may be planning to bring the venture with her. However, whether or not the British audience will accept it remains uncertain.
Expert thinks Meghan Markle’s As Ever brand has less chance of succeeding in the UK amid return reports
Meghan Markle launched the lifestyle and wellness brand, American Riviera Orchard, in 2024. She rebranded it as “As Ever” a year later. Its offerings include fruit spreads, honey, herbal teas, hand-poured candles, flower sprinkles, and seasonal gift sets. So far, the brand has only had consumers in America. With the Sussexes’ return to the UK, rumors have been swirling that the brand will try to establish its foothold there.
While speaking to the Daily Express, celebrity chef Jameson Stocks delivered a brutal prediction for As Ever. “I wouldn’t be surprised if a couple of department stores in London have already signed a deal to sell her below-average overpriced tat.”
He believes Markle will reinvent her brand for the British market, but remains unsure that it will work. “I have no doubt that she will pivot her brand and launch something in the UK. The question is there enough mugs in the UK to buy it?”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s relationship with the British royal family could improve upon their return. This could recenter the attention on Markle and her brand. Reflecting on the difficulties of rebuilding the relationship with the royal family, Stocks said, “When you’re backed into a corner with very few options left – having exhausted every possible avenue, you often find yourself turning back to your family.”
He continued, “If you’re liable for tens of millions of pounds without a reliable income stream, returning may make financial sense. However, I believe rebuilding bridges with the Royal Family will take considerable time. If their return was motivated solely by commercial value, I find that despicable.”
