The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have filed international trademark applications for their 'Sussex Royal' brand, covering a range of items and activities including clothing, stationery, and emotional support groups, according to filings with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
The applications, lodged in December in the name of their new foundation, cover Australia, Canada, the European Union, and the United States. A separate filing was made for 'Sussex Royal the Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex'.
Six classes of goods and services are listed, including printed matter such as magazines and greeting cards, clothing from footwear to pyjamas, charitable fundraising and management, and social care services such as organising emotional support groups. These follow earlier UK trademark applications filed in June 2019.
However, the couple may face a potential conflict after an application was lodged with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) by a third party, believed to be based in Italy, for goods including beer and jewellery under the same 'Sussex Royal' name.
Experts have suggested Harry and Meghan could earn up to £500,000 in their first year after stepping back as senior royals, particularly by tapping into the North American market. The couple has announced plans to transition to a new working model that combines royal duties with financial independence.
