Meghan Markle’s American Riviera Orchard Continues to Thrive Despite Trademark Controversy

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15 September 2023, North Rhine-Westphalia, Duesseldorf: Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, at the 6th Invictus Games next to the Merkur Games Arena for the cycling medal ceremony. Prince Harry celebrates his 39th birthday today. The Paralympic competition for war-disabled athletes is hosted in Germany for the first time. Photo: Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa (Photo by Rolf Vennenbernd/picture alliance via Getty Images)
Meghan Markle's American Riviera Orchard has hit a few bumps in the road. The US Patent and Trademarks Office got into a tiff with the brand's progress, although it came as part and parcel of being a royal entrepreneur. Having succeeded in a temporary setback, the US government office failed to deter the brand's image. Moreover, Markle's A-list endorsements and her own determination have kept the brand thriving. Hence, American Riviera Orchard is still growing strong despite the trademark drama.
Reports suggest the setback from the US office has not only held them back but also made the duo aware and careful of the probable obstacles.
Meghan Markle's American Riviera Orchard is up and running
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According to Vanity Fair, which cited a source close to the Duchess, the trademark process for American Riviera Orchard is still ongoing. The source stated that the brand has received several office actions, which are “routine and expected” when filing for trademarks. The source further added that this status indicates the application is being reviewed and refined to meet the requirements.

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DUESSELDORF, GERMANY – SEPTEMBER 15: Meghan, Duchess of Sussex attends the True Patriot Love Reception at The Hilton during day six of the Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 on September 15, 2023 in Duesseldorf, Germany. Prince Harry celebrates his 39th birthday today. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images for the Invictus Games Foundation)
A trademark filing revealed that the US Patent and Trademarks Office has objected to certain aspects of the name and logo description. However, this does not necessarily represent a setback for the brand. American Riviera Orchard is reportedly preparing for a wider launch later this year, implying that the trademark issues are being addressed and the brand is moving forward with its plans.
Despite the relief, why is there a bump in the brand's road regarding its logo and name?
What exactly was the set back for American Riviera Orchard?
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Meghan Markle's jam brand, American Riviera Orchard, was dealt a blow by the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The government agency denied her latest application due to issues with the brand's logo, specifically the letter "O" in the insignia. The USPTO claimed that the description of the logo was inconsistent with the actual design.

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Credits: Imago
The USPTO's "non-final action" document stated that descriptions must accurately identify the literal and design elements appearing in the mark. This setback put Meghan Markle's brand in a challenging position, potentially delaying its launch and expansion plans. The US government's scrutiny of the logo's design elements effectively put American Riviera Orchard's trademark application in a chokehold. Nonetheless, it has hauled its way out of it.
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What are your thoughts on Meghan Markle's brand comeback in such a short span? Let us know how you like American Riviera Orchard in the comments below.
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Edited By: Itti Mahajan
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