Meghan Markle ‘struggling’ to find American Riviera Orchard CEO after 18 staff quit: report

Meghan Markle’s American Riviera Orchard brand is having a hard time getting off the ground as the American actress struggles to find a CEO, according to a report.

The Duchess of Sussex, 43, unveiled her new business venture in March, saying it was coming soon. But six months later, there’s still no word on when it will launch or what products customers can expect to see.

A source said the delay was a direct result of the difficulty in appointing Markle as chief executive.

“The numbers don’t lie, and having nearly 20 staff members resign tells its own story,” said a source. Closer said “From Markle’s setback, it’s unprecedented, even for a startup.”

“The harsh truth is that Harry and Meghan are the toughest managers, they are very demanding and difficult to work with and that puts a lot of people in an awkward position,” the insider added.

Although her brand’s products aren’t yet available to buy, Markle sent jars of strawberry jam to an exclusive group of celebrities in April, sparking a “strong start” to the company’s launch.

Since then, the mom of two has been sending dog biscuits to her celebrity friends, and has also talked about her future rosé wine collection.

Earlier this year, reports began claiming that the “Suits” alum was looking for investors.

“I imagine the pop-ups, the launch and the dinner series will continue until there is some kind of official launch,” says brand strategist Lucy Green. He said to the sun In July.

“The company may still be looking to attract investment,” she continued. “If the brand is direct-to-consumer, not wholesale, it will require a large marketing budget to attract consumers.”

“It’s also not clear what leadership she has at this point,” she added. “Perhaps the jam was a precursor and example to show the proof of concept to talent and investors.”

The newspaper has reached out to Markle’s representatives for comment.

According to those close to the former actress, the brand name is a nice nod to the city of Santa Barbara, California, which has been called the “American Riviera” for more than a century.

This location is also where she and Prince Harry live with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

Additionally, a trademark application revealed the brand’s plans to sell tableware, drinkware, bottles, kitchen linens, and edible treats such as jellies, jams, marmalades, and dried fruits.

Earlier this year, it was reported that Markle could be looking to make a whopping seven-figure sum within the brand’s first year.

The rumours of business trouble come just weeks after the couple’s chief of staff, Josh Kettler, resigned after just three months on the job.

The reason for Ketler’s departure was revealed earlier this month – just a day before he was due to accompany the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on their trip to Colombia.

This was the 18th member of the couple’s staff to resign.