Meghan Markle is reportedly preparing to launch a rosé under her lifestyle label, American Riviera Orchard. This strategic move could potentially bring in substantial revenue, given the high marketability and financial rewards associated with wines, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Choosing wine as her inaugural product makes perfect commercial sense, positioning Meghan for significant success in this sector. Earlier hints about various products under her brand now seem to center on this pink wine, which insiders reveal she has been gifting to celebrity friends like Mindy Kaling and Kris Jenner. However, it's Meghan's personal favorite rosé that is expected to generate the most buzz and profit.
Meghan's preference for rosé is well-documented, dating back to her first date with Prince Harry in 2016. She's known to enjoy frosé, a trendy drink made by blending frozen rosé wine with strawberries and icing sugar. This affinity for rosé aligns perfectly with her brand's image and marketing strategy.
The launch of this rosé could just be the beginning for American Riviera Orchard. Meghan is anticipated to introduce a range of related products, including elegant drinkware, bar essentials, and hosting items. These additions are designed not only to complement the rosé but also to enhance the overall lifestyle experience that her brand aims to offer.
The Daily Mail suggests that these products will feature a classic yet luxurious style, appealing primarily to an upscale market. Meghan's venture into the wine industry follows a trend set by other celebrities like Cameron Diaz, Kylie Minogue, Brad Pitt, and Francis Ford Coppola, who have successfully launched their own wines.
However, the market is highly competitive, with numerous celebrity-branded alcoholic beverages already available. To stand out, Meghan will need more than just a product; she will require a fresh and innovative approach.
If American Riviera Orchard's wine does indeed come to fruition, will it be modeled after the wines and barware offered by Royal Family Wines, which are known for their successful product launches, finalized products, signed contracts, and clear strategies?
Meghan has often utilized media exposure to generate interest and secure deals, although this approach has yielded mixed results. For instance, a rumored partnership with Dior never materialized, prompting Dior to publicly deny any such collaboration with American Riviera Orchard.
Industry insiders suggest that Meghan needs to demonstrate her ability to attract a following before securing major brand partnerships. Her work ethic and reputation are seen as high risk, hindering her ability to close deals. This negative perception extends to any product she might launch, be it dog biscuits or wine.
Meghan's royal connections further complicate her brand strategy. While her duchess title once added prestige, her strained relationship with the royal family has polarized potential consumers. Supporters and critics of Meghan are unlikely to engage with products associated with her, limiting her target audience.
Moreover, Meghan's efforts to use media pressure to reconcile with the royal family are viewed as risky. While she appears to be trying to craft a narrative of making every effort to mend ties, this strategy is unlikely to attract business partners who seek stability and profitability rather than controversy and high risk.
In the competitive wine industry, Meghan will face stiff competition from established celebrity brands. To succeed, she needs a clear and innovative strategy that goes beyond leveraging her name and past royal connections. Focusing on quality, authenticity, and unique branding could help her carve out a niche in this crowded market.