Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, recently launched a new website named American Riviera Orchard.
However, there seems to be a twist in the tale as the UK domain name for her latest venture has been acquired by an unknown individual.
While the original US-based website is functioning smoothly, visitors clicking on the UK link are being directed to a donation page for a charity unrelated to Markle.
The mysterious UK website leads users to the Trussell Trust’s donation page, featuring a fundraiser with a message aimed at the Princess of Wales.
The JustGiving fundraiser, labeled NotMeghan, expresses hopes that Meghan would not mind and extends thoughts to Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge.
The funds raised through this page will support the Trussell Trust, an organization dedicated to combating hunger and poverty in the UK.
Interestingly, the purchase of the AmericanRivieraOrchard.co.uk domain and the associated fundraising page mark the entirety of this charitable initiative.
The individual behind this move is separate from those selling merchandise related to Markle’s brand.
The donations received have surpassed £11,000, indicating a significant response from the public following the redirection of the UK domain.
Speculation arises regarding the identity of the domain purchaser, with doubts cast on Meghan’s involvement or that of her representatives.
Donors suggest a benevolent citizen may have acquired the domain out of goodwill.
The Trussell Trust clarified that they were not behind the webpage and were unaware of the donation platform’s existence.
Sophie Carr, the Director of Public Engagement at the Trussell Trust, expressed gratitude towards those supporting their cause.
However, the charity disclaims any association with the website domain and remains unaware of its origin.
Lady C was previously rumored to have secured domain names for Meghan’s ARO venture in the UK, prompting speculation about her potential involvement in this incident.
The episode has garnered attention for its unintended charitable impact, contrasting sharply with criticisms aimed at Meghan and Prince Harry for their financial decisions.
Despite the controversy, Meghan’s lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, is yet to debut any products for sale.
The brand’s strawberry jam, sent to influencers for tasting, awaits public release, with initial poll results indicating limited interest from consumers.
An online survey conducted by Express.co.uk revealed that a vast majority of respondents, 98%, expressed disinterest in purchasing Meghan’s jam.
Only a small fraction, comprising 1% of voters, indicated a willingness to buy the product, while another 1% remained undecided.
The lukewarm reception underscores the challenges faced by the Duchess in translating her brand concept into commercial success, amidst ongoing scrutiny and public skepticism.