Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, is understood to be expressing significant concern about his wife Meghan Markle's ambitious strategy to expand her As Ever lifestyle brand on an international scale. The 41-year-old royal is reportedly "very wary" of the substantial financial risks involved, particularly regarding the costs of overseas distribution and marketing campaigns.
Financial Fears and International Ambitions
According to sources close to the couple, Harry fears that Meghan's plans to target markets including the United Kingdom could prove financially unsustainable for the brand, which she launched in 2024. This caution comes despite the initial success of As Ever products, which reportedly sold out quickly following their summer release.
The Duke's concerns have been amplified by a recent website glitch that inadvertently revealed substantial inventory levels. The exposed records showed approximately 220,000 jars of jam, 30,000 jars of honey, 90,000 candles, 80,000 flower sprinkles tins, and around 70,000 bottles of wine in stock.
Tension Over Business Strategy
Insiders suggest that Harry's cautious approach has served to "rile" Meghan, who remains defiantly committed to her expansion vision. "He isn't saying that she ought to throw in the towel," revealed one source. "He just wants her to take it at a more sensible pace as the cash isn't flowing the way it used to."
The source added: "If Harry wants to stay on her good side, he'd do well to stop trying to be the voice of reason. She's not going to take his advice anyway, and all he's doing is riling her up."
Meghan's Determined Vision
Despite the concerns, Meghan appears more determined than ever to pursue her global ambitions. The Duchess reportedly believes she can "dominate the UK jam market" as part of a wider rollout across Europe and Asia. "It will give her a lot of satisfaction to dominate the UK jam market," shared an insider, "which is something she really believes will be possible once her brand is exposed to a wider audience in Britain."
Sources have praised the mother of two's resilience and determination, particularly following the website inventory revelation earlier this year. "She's been gearing up for this next phase for a long time," stated one associate. "That's why there's been so much stock produced, and she's ready to pull the trigger."
Broader Business Context
The couple's business discussions occur against the backdrop of their continued media ventures through Archewell Productions. Harry and Meghan recently attended the Sundance Film Festival for the premiere of "Cookie Queens," a Girl Scouts documentary they executive produced through their media company.
This business tension represents another chapter in the Sussexes' transition to commercial ventures following their step back from royal duties. While Meghan focuses on building her lifestyle brand, Harry's apparent caution reflects the financial realities facing their independent ventures in California and beyond.
