Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is facing criticism from the CEO of Clever Blends, the coffee company she invested in and promoted last year.
Hannah Mendoza, the female entrepreneur who founded Clever Blends, received Meghan Markle’s endorsement in December 2020.
However, according to Mendoza, the Duchess’s involvement has caused a significant drop in sales and a negative backlash.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, Mendoza revealed that Meghan Markle’s investment and promotion had backfired, alienating and offending many customers.
They saw her involvement as hypocritical and opportunistic.
Customers boycotted and returned the products upon discovering Meghan Markle’s stake in the company.
They accused her of using the company for personal gain and pushing her own agenda.
Moreover, retailers faced pressure from customers and activists who criticized Meghan Markle for her actions, including her explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey, her feud with the royal family, and her lawsuit against British tabloids.
As a result, many retailers refused to stock or sell Clever Blends products.
Mendoza also expressed disappointment with Meghan Markle’s lack of support and fulfillment of promises as an investor and partner.
The Duchess did not provide expertise or guidance, nor did she participate in meetings or events.
Mendoza claimed that Meghan Markle’s only contribution was a cringe-worthy ad in which she played a barista making a latte with a frother.
Furthermore, Mendoza accused Meghan Markle of disloyalty and inconsistency.
She stated that the Duchess did not regularly use or consume the products and was seen drinking other coffee brands like Starbucks and Pete’s.
Mendoza concluded that Meghan Markle’s involvement had disastrous consequences, causing a significant decline in sales and damaging Clever Blends’ reputation and credibility.
Mendoza expressed regret for accepting Meghan Markle’s investment and promotion, stating that she wished she had never worked with the Duchess.
She is now considering cutting ties with Meghan Markle and seeking new investors and partners who are more reliable and trustworthy.
The public and media have been divided over who to support in this controversy.
Some sympathize with Mendoza, agreeing with her claims and expressing disappointment in Meghan Markle.
Others accuse Mendoza of being ungrateful and spiteful, suggesting she is attempting to sabotage the Sussexes’ career and life.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have not directly responded to Mendoza’s interview.
However, a source close to them told People that the interview was a fabrication and a malicious attack.
The source emphasized that the couple is focused on their humanitarian work and family life in California.
As the fallout from this controversy continues, Clever Blends faces the challenge of rebuilding its brand and reputation while Meghan Markle navigates the ongoing scrutiny surrounding her public image.