Meghan Markle’s Brand Faces Make-or-Break Situation Ahead of Reported UK Move
Meghan Markle’s return to the UK could bring major changes to her life, and it will certainly be more than just her family dynamics.
Meghan Markle shocked everyone with an unexpected move, and she could soon face the consequences of that decision. Prince Harry and Markle’s return to the UK could bring major changes to her life, and it will certainly be more than just her family dynamics. As the Duchess of Sussex prepares to spend more time in Britain, questions are emerging about what this relocation might mean for her growing business empire.
Addressing the move, celebrity chef and entrepreneur Jameson Stocks, in a conversation with the Daily Express, said, “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.” Later in the interview, Stocks made a particularly harsh prediction about Markle’s lifestyle brand, As Ever, questioning whether British shoppers will actually buy into it.
With the Sussexes now expected to spend more time in the UK, Markle's brand reportedly could also be given a more British feel. Elaborating on it, Stocks continued, “I have no doubt that she will pivot her brand and launch something in the UK. The question is, are there enough mugs in the UK to buy it?” The entrepreneur also countered that the scope of Markle’s royal connection does not automatically translate into commercial success.
He argued that returning to Britain could bring the Sussexes closer to the Royal Family but warned that rebuilding those relationships would take time. “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 opined. Stocks added, “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."
Stocks also aimed at Markle’s previous commercial opportunities, claiming that her celebrity status had not translated into the success she might have expected. He highlighted, “Her celebrity status was clearly not as influential in America as she believed, which is why she failed—British people are not stupid; they see through people like her.”
Over the years, As Ever has become a central pillar of Markle’s post-royal identity, offering products such as fruit preserves, honey, teas, and flower sprinkles. While Stocks’ comments are undoubtedly harsh, returning to the UK could also open up a new audience and a fresh commercial direction for the brand. Whether British shoppers will embrace it, however, remains to be seen.
