Duchess risks royal backlash over title use amid reports of hotels and restaurants plan
Meghan Markle’s ambitious expansion of her lifestyle brand As Ever may be facing royal pushback, as insiders claim King Charles is prepared to act if her next business move crosses the line.
According to The Sun, Meghan is now trademarking As Ever for “hospitality services,” sparking speculation that the Duchess of Sussex is preparing to launch a chain of hotels, restaurants, or wellness retreats. This move comes alongside her growing media portfolio, including her upcoming Netflix shows and the podcast Confessions of a Female Founder.
But as Meghan steps deeper into the business world, her continued use of royal titles is raising eyebrows at the Palace. Former royal butler Grant Harrold told Showbiz Cheat Sheet that King Charles won’t remain silent if her branding starts to exploit her duchess status.
“If Meghan was using her title for something commercial, it’s possible the Palace could step in,” Harrold explained. “Not directly from the King—but likely through Harry.”
Harrold also cast doubt on the practicality of Meghan’s reported hotel ambitions, calling the venture risky and expensive. “Running a hotel is a huge commitment—and if it fails, it’ll be a very costly one,” he said. While he acknowledged Meghan’s interest in wellness might align more naturally with a retreat-style business, he questioned whether a full-scale hospitality brand fits her image.
With As Ever already under scrutiny over pricing, supply, and product quality, this potential expansion into a new industry could either elevate Meghan’s brand—or expose it to greater risk and renewed royal tension.
