Meghan Markle has encountered significant challenges while launching her new lifestyle brand, **American Riviera Orchard**. The brand, which she teased through a whimsical Instagram video featuring her picking flowers and cooking, aims to focus on home, garden, food, and lifestyle products. Despite an initial surge in popularity, garnering over half a million followers, the venture faces several hurdles that could impede its success.
One major issue is the presence of fake followers on the brand’s Instagram account, with estimates suggesting around 13.77% of followers could be fake. This problem undermines the authenticity and trustworthiness of her online presence, which is crucial in today’s influencer-driven market. Such fake engagement can distort metrics and harm the brand’s credibility, making it harder to foster genuine connections with the target audience.
Moreover, Meghan’s leadership style has come under scrutiny. Royal expert Tom Quinn pointed out that her “tough outlook” and “absolute self-belief” make it challenging for her to delegate effectively and accept advice. This has reportedly made it difficult for her to recruit the right staff, as she desires employees who are both innovative and strictly compliant with her vision.
Additionally, the timing of her Instagram comeback sparked controversy. Just a week after expressing her desire to stay off social media due to its negative impact on her well-being, Meghan launched the brand’s Instagram account. This sudden return was criticized for potentially conflicting with her previous statements, raising questions about her motives, especially since it coincided with Prince William’s speech on Princess Diana.
Despite these challenges, Meghan’s venture represents a significant shift from her previous royal role to a more domestic and entrepreneurial focus. The American Riviera Orchard aims to echo the success of her former lifestyle blog, The Tig, and potentially includes products like jams, marmalades, and other lifestyle items. As she navigates these challenges, the success of her brand will likely depend on balancing personal principles with the demands of digital brand management.
