Another Mistake: Meghan Markle Falls Foul of US Patent Rules

Meghan Markle’s entrepreneurial journey has encountered another obstacle as her latest lifestyle brand, “As Ever,” faces legal challenges due to U.S. patent regulations. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) issued a partial rejection of her trademark application, primarily because of potential consumer confusion with an existing Chinese clothing retailer.

In October 2022, Meghan’s legal team filed for trademark protection under the “As Ever” name, intending to market products such as aprons, jams, and pet treats. However, the USPTO’s decision highlighted concerns over similarities with pre-existing trademarks, necessitating a reevaluation of her branding strategy.

This isn’t the first time Meghan has faced trademark hurdles. Her previous venture, “American Riviera Orchard,” encountered opposition from premium food retailer Harry & David, who argued that the name closely resembled their “Royal Riviera” trademark. Such challenges underscore the complexities of navigating trademark laws, especially when brand names overlap with established entities.

Despite these setbacks, Meghan remains undeterred in her business pursuits. Her resilience in the face of legal challenges reflects a commitment to establishing a successful lifestyle brand. As the situation develops, it will be interesting to see how she adapts her branding to align with regulatory requirements and market expectations.