Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand As Ever is off to a strong start, with her £20.68 orange blossom honey selling out within minutes of its launch.
The brand, marketed as a premium wellness and lifestyle collection, has seen rising demand—but not without criticism.
While Meghan’s products are flying off the shelves, questions are being raised about affordability, particularly for the very people expected to promote them. Staff at Netflix’s upcoming retail stores—Netflix House locations in Philadelphia and Dallas—are reportedly set to earn around £15 per hour. That means some of Meghan’s As Ever items cost more than their hourly wages.
For example, the brand’s wine collection is sold in bundles of three for £72, six for £127, and twelve for a steep £240—plus £14 in shipping and taxes. Even everyday items like crepe mix (£10.34) and herbal teas (£11.08 per pack) are considered pricey when compared to hourly earnings.
Netflix, whose deal with Meghan and Prince Harry is set to conclude in September, remains confident in the brand’s potential. CEO Ted Sarandos recently stated that Meghan’s cultural impact is “underestimated” and cited it as a key reason for their original partnership.
Since stepping away from royal duties, Meghan has redefined her public image as a lifestyle entrepreneur. Her Netflix docuseries With Love, Meghan has drawn both praise and critique. A second season is expected to debut this autumn, keeping Meghan in the spotlight.