Meghan Markle’s New Brand Logo Sparks Plagiarism Controversy

MONTECITO, Calif. — Meghan Markle‘s lifestyle brand, As Ever, is facing significant scrutiny after accusations that its logo resembles the historic coat of arms from the Spanish town of Porreres. The controversy arises just weeks before the brand’s official launch, anticipated for March 4, coinciding with the release of her Netflix series, “With Love, Meghan.”

Xisca Mora, the mayor of Porreres, stated to local media that the similarity between Markle’s logo, which features a black and white palm tree flanked by two hummingbirds, and the town’s coat of arms, dating back to 1370, is “undeniable.” The arm’s emblem depicts a vibrant palm tree with two birds on either side, and Mora expressed concern over the potential cultural appropriation.

“We really want them to change the logo because our coat of arms is very special to our culture,” Mora told Fox News Digital. “It is a symbol of our town’s identity.” Although Mora indicated that the town would likely not pursue legal action, she emphasized the importance of respecting Porreres’ historical heritage.

Branding expert Doug Eldridge commented on the issue, describing it as a “comedy of errors” for the Duchess of Sussex. He noted that Markle’s team should have performed comprehensive research to avoid such a situation. “They are self-inflicted, unforced errors,” Eldridge said. “Even an AI algorithm would likely have discovered the overlap.”

Despite the backlash, Markle’s brand represents a personal connection to her life in California, as the palm tree and hummingbirds symbolize her home environment in Montecito, where she raises her two children, Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3. Hummingbirds are particularly significant to Prince Harry, who referenced his attachment to them in his memoir, “Spare.”

On social media, several users compared the logos and expressed their opinions. British broadcaster Helena Chard acknowledged the resemblance but pointed out that palm trees and two birds are common motifs. “There must be loads of similar-looking logos out there that haven’t been trademarked,” she noted.

Mora initially thought the controversy was “fake news” until the media attention proved otherwise. “I hope many people around the world will become aware that in Mallorca, there is an inland town that has this coat of arms,” she said.

Meghan Markle’s brand, which had originally been named American Riviera Orchard, underwent a rebranding to As Ever, purportedly to reflect a broader range of products that align with her interests, such as food, gardening, and homeware. The brand’s planned offerings include fruit preserves, textiles, and home decor.

A New York-based clothing line of the same name has also tried to clarify its independence from Markle’s brand amid rising confusion about the names. Founder Mark Kolski stated on social media, “We are not affiliated,” as online discussions surged regarding the similarities in branding.

As the Duchess prepares for her brand launch, the juxtaposition of her lifestyle endeavors with the historical significance of Porreres has sparked a cultural conversation about appropriation and recognition of local identity. The situation remains fluid, with speculation about whether Markle’s logo will undergo further changes to resolve the controversy.

Fox News Digital reached out to representatives for Markle but did not receive an immediate response to the allegations.