Meghan Markle is facing a wave of criticism after the King's jams flew off the shelves following accusations that she imitated High Grove Gardens' product.
Markle's inaugural product launch, a jar of strawberry jam, seemed to be gaining traction for King Charles. Her promotional tactic involved sending jars of her American Riviera Orchard product to 50 acquaintances and influencers. Ironically, this move inadvertently bolstered sales for the king's jam, resulting in a depletion of High Grove's organic strawberry preserve, as reported on the retailer's website yesterday.
Despite the fact that each jar costs $6.95, with profits earmarked for Royal Charities, Markle's detractors question her business acumen, expressing disbelief at her attempt to turn a profit. They argue that with a price tag of £7 per jar, the math doesn't add up, especially if Markle intends to gift 50 jars as alleged, hinting at potential logistical nightmares for her.
Sharp-eyed observers noticed a striking resemblance between Markle's exclusive jam and High Grove Gardens' strawberry jam. However, consumers have shown a clear preference for the King's product over Markle's purported knockoffs. Some interpret this as karmic retribution for Markle's perceived habit of appropriating others' ideas.
Critics accuse her of lacking self-awareness and originality, asserting that her persistence stems from a pattern of behavior evident since the 1990s. Conversely, Prince Charles's venture into product sales from the Duchy of Cornwall estate, including jam since 2010, received accolades. Prince William's stewardship of the estate post-Queen Elizabeth II's demise in 2022 led to the sale of Duchy organic strawberry jam at Waitrose stores for £2.80 per jar. This jam, described as "sweet and juicy," eschews artificial chemicals and fertilizers in favor of hand-stirred batches for a rich texture and flavor.
Waitrose, the exclusive distributor, notes that the jam, boasting an average rating of 4.5 stars from 127 reviews, serves as an ideal ingredient for baking or spreading generously on toast. Moreover, a portion of sales contributes to the Prince of Wales's charitable fund, amounting to over £4 million since 2009. In contrast to Markle's perceived shortcomings, the King's jam garners praise for its affordability, transparency in sourcing, and ethical production practices. Consumers appreciate the carefully curated brand, which underscores a commitment to quality, integrity, and community support.
Critics lambast Markle's jam not only for its alleged lack of originality but also for its perceived inferior packaging and marketing. They contrast it unfavorably with the regal presentation of the King's jam, complete with proper labels and lids, evoking a sense of elegance and sophistication. Furthermore, they question the rationale behind purchasing Markle's product when alternatives from established brands like Duchy and High Grove Gardens, endorsed by royalty, offer superior quality and authenticity.
Amidst the controversy, rumors circulate about Catherine's involvement in beekeeping and honey production, further fueling speculation about a rivalry between the two Duchesses. Some interpret Catherine's foray into honey-making as a strategic move to ensure the continuity of the High Grove brand under King Charles's reign, hinting at a potential rivalry between the two duchesses. Ultimately, the saga underscores the intricacies of royal branding and the significance of legacy in shaping consumer perceptions and charitable endeavors.
