Meghan Markle has been facing challenges in realizing her ambitions both within and outside the royal family. Her latest endeavor, the establishment of the cooking and lifestyle venture called American Riviera Orchard, has encountered obstacles in securing a chief executive officer (CEO). Despite conducting interviews with multiple candidates over the past five weeks, the position remains unfilled. A source based in California revealed that the initial CEO search has not yielded successful results thus far.
Amidst these challenges, Meghan has initiated discussions with Netflix regarding a potential commercial collaboration between the streaming giant and American Riviera Orchard. This marks a new direction for Netflix, as the source suggests that they would run the lifestyle business with Meghan developing products as spin-offs from a show. If a partnership is agreed upon, it is likely that Netflix would appoint its own CEO to oversee operations.
Speculations suggest that this potential collaboration follows a similar model to the arrangement between American television personalities Chip and Joanna Gaines and networks such as HGTV and Warner Brothers for their Magnolia Network. The Gaines couple, known for their home renovation show "Fixer Upper," also market lifestyle products, including bedding inspired by their program.
Meghan, unlike the Gaines, has expressed aspirations of ascending to the highest echelons without prior experience. She and Prince Harry aimed to emulate the Obamas, envisioning themselves effortlessly assuming political roles such as senators. However, it may be time for them to focus on diligent effort rather than making grand announcements, as building a successful lifestyle brand requires showcasing one's lifestyle to the public.
Critics argue that Meghan's privacy-focused approach, which is evident in the lack of interviews or shows filmed at their residence, contrasts with successful brand builders like Joanna Gaines, who presented herself as the creator of an aesthetic and openly showcased her work. Some view Meghan's recent actions as an attempt to cover up the fact that she is struggling to find individuals willing to work for her brand, and her reputation may have caused her to be blacklisted in the business world.
While Meghan is trying to persuade Netflix of the value of her brand, critics question the substance of American Riviera Orchard, noting the absence of tangible products and limited promotion by Z-list personalities on social media. Establishing a brand requires significant investment in product development, logistics, e-commerce infrastructure, administration, and sales. It remains uncertain why Netflix would undertake the development of Meghan's brand on her behalf.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about Meghan's ability to secure investors and cover the costs associated with brand development. Some view her efforts as lacking diligence and suggest that she is relying solely on her duchess title to manifest a brand. The notion of a streaming company headhunting for a jam company raises questions about Netflix's interest in diluting its brand.
As the situation unfolds, the absence of a CEO appears to be a crucial factor in the successful launch of American Riviera Orchard. Critics argue that Meghan's decisions and approach may not demonstrate astuteness, raising doubts about the viability of her brand in the business world.
