Meghan Markle’s Brand Name Sparks Controversy as Existing Business Owners Speak Out

Meghan Markle’s latest business venture has found itself at the center of controversy after the Duchess of Sussex announced her new brand, As Ever. 

The rebranding, which comes ahead of the launch of her upcoming Netflix series With Love, 

Meghan, has drawn criticism from business owners who claim to have been using the same or similar names for years.

The backlash erupted on social media as business owners expressed frustration over the high-profile launch, with some fearing it could overshadow their long-established brands. 

The controversy has only fueled further debate over Meghan Markle’s commercial endeavors, which continue to generate widespread attention.

Small Business Owner Calls Out Meghan Markle

One of the loudest voices speaking out against the rebranding is Jez, an Arizona-based photographer who has operated under the name As Ever Photography for more than 12 years. Taking to Instagram, Jez addressed Meghan Markle directly, writing:

“When one of the most famous people in the world starts using your biz name of 12+ years (that you named in honour of your grandmother), seems like they could throw me a lil bone? @meghan @netflix.”

Jez went on to explain the deeply personal significance behind her brand’s name, revealing that As Ever Photography was inspired by her grandmother, Evelyn. She shared that her grandmother’s letters were always signed off with the phrase “As Ever, Evelyn,” which ultimately became the inspiration for her business. The heartfelt story resonated with many online, leading to increased support for her small business as she navigates the unexpected competition from Meghan’s new brand.

New York Clothing Brand Sees Unexpected Boost

While Jez voiced her frustration, another business with a nearly identical name has found itself benefiting from the publicity surrounding Meghan’s rebrand. As Ever NYC, a family-run clothing company based in New York, has seen a surge in online engagement and sales following the media frenzy. The sudden attention has led to an increase in social media followers, with shoppers showing curiosity about the company’s products.

Despite the unexpected boost in sales, the owners of As Ever NYC have yet to publicly comment on the situation. However, their increased visibility highlights the unpredictable ways in which high-profile controversies can impact smaller brands.

Accusations of Plagiarism from a Spanish Town

Adding to the controversy, Meghan Markle has also faced allegations of plagiarism regarding her brand’s logo. A town in Mallorca, Spain, has claimed that the Duchess’s new branding closely resembles their official Coat of Arms. The accusations have led to further scrutiny, with critics questioning the originality of her brand’s aesthetic.

While there has been no official response from Meghan Markle’s team regarding these allegations, the claims have added another layer to the already heated debate surrounding her latest business move.

Meghan Markle’s Brand Announcement

The Duchess of Sussex officially unveiled As Ever earlier this week through her Instagram account @meghan. She also launched a new website, asever.com, which features a soft-toned, minimalist homepage showcasing a touching photograph of Meghan holding hands with her three-year-old daughter, Princess Lilibet.

The launch comes just weeks before Meghan’s new Netflix show With Love, Meghan, which is set to premiere on March 4. The series is expected to highlight Meghan’s journey in lifestyle and branding, covering topics such as motherhood, wellness, and personal growth.

Social Media Reactions and Public Opinion

The controversy surrounding As Ever has sparked a wave of reactions online. While some social media users sympathize with the small business owners affected by the name clash, others argue that common phrases such as As Ever cannot be exclusively claimed.

Critics have accused Meghan of failing to do proper research before launching her brand, suggesting that a high-profile entrepreneur should take extra precautions to avoid potential conflicts. Others have defended her, arguing that trademark disputes over common words are inevitable in the business world.

What Happens Next?

As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Meghan Markle or her team will address the backlash. Business owners like Jez may consider legal options, but trademark disputes can be complicated, especially when common phrases are involved.

For now, As Ever is moving forward with its launch, and all eyes will be on Meghan Markle as she prepares for the release of her Netflix series. Whether this controversy will affect her brand’s success remains uncertain, but it has undoubtedly generated significant buzz—both positive and negative—surrounding the Duchess’s latest venture.

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