King Charles and the Meghan Markle were once so close, he deputised for her father Thomas Markle at the 2018 royal wedding and walked her down the aisle. But in the years since, their bond has evaporated – to the point where Meghan, 42, now believes her father-in-law is trying to sabotage her latest business ventures.
A source tells New Idea that, “as far as Meghan is concerned”, it’s “no coincidence” that Charles authorised the release of his $50 Highgrove Royal Estate Honey at the same time her American Riviera Orchard jam was unveiled.
“She is trying to establish herself as a lifestyle mogul, but now she’s competing with a royal rival,” says the source.
The fact that Charles’ label has also just launched Highgrove Splash, a men’s aftershave retailing for $250, has further perplexed Meghan, as it’s thought she also has long-term plans to develop her own men’s grooming range.
“She had no idea [about this] and now suddenly, as she sees it, there’s a glut of his products on the market,” our source explains.
“She’s one step away from calling Charles about the clash, but Prince Harry is holding her back.”
However, our insider adds that, had Meghan done more research on her competitors – particularly within her own family – she would realise that Charles, 75, has long sold products, under both the Highgrove and Duchy Organic labels. All profits from his ranges are directed to his favoured charities too.
“Even so, Meghan feels that with Charles heavily promoting his new launches, nothing will convince her that this is not a deliberate attempt to curb her success,” says our source.
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