Meghan Markle’s Jam and Tea Products Spark Controversy Over Pricing

Meghan Markle's jam, which retails for £6.50, is produced in a factory located in Illinois, even though the parent company, The Republic of Tea, is based in California. In a recent Instagram post, Markle showcased the jam as it cooked, with her daughter Lilibet complimenting it in the background. This same company is also responsible for other products associated with Markle, including her expensive £9 herbal tea packs and a sold-out jar of orange blossom honey priced at £20.

The Republic of Tea, located in Larkspur, California, is over 350 miles from where Meghan and Prince Harry reside in Montecito. The distance between their home and the factory is more than 2,000 miles, raising questions about the sourcing of her products. The company has also launched teas featuring popular series like Downton Abbey and Bridgerton, which adds another layer to its celebrity tie-ins. Royal expert Margaret Holder criticized Markle for imposing what she referred to as a "Meghan Mark-up," asserting that the high prices are a result of her celebrity branding rather than the actual value of the products.

Reports suggest that the pricing strategy of Markle's items, such as her £11 flower sprinkles, may include marked-up costs due to her involvement. The latest updates indicated changes in branding on the retailer's website, transitioning from "republic-of-tea" to "As Ever store," even as it remains ambiguous if Markle sourced her products directly or if they were produced under her label. The FAQ section on As Ever's website hints at their collaboration with top vendors to create these offerings, further complicating the relationship between Markle and the production process.