Meghan Markles American Riviera Orchard suffers fresh blow as rival brand files trademark protest

Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard has hit another major bump in the road, The Post can confirm.The Duchess of Sussex, 43, has faced ongoing trademark troubles since announcing the brand’s impending launch in March.On Thursday, the company was slapped with yet another trademark snafu — only this time, rival lifestyle brand Harry & David had filed a protest against American Riviera Orchard, claiming the name is far too similar to its “Royal Riviera” product line.In documents obtained by The Post, the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) received a protest filing on Oct.31 from US-based premium food and gift retailer Harry & David.The company’s “Royal Riviera” trademark is currently registered to the brand’s pear gift baskets, which are grown in Oregon.The letter of protest, seen by The Post, says there is a “likelihood of confusion” for the trademark.

The case has now been escalated to Marco Wright, the Trademark Office’s examining attorney.The Post has reached out to Markle’s reps for comment.In September, Markle’s trademark application was refused by the USPTO, who warned that businesses cannot trademark geographical locations.American Riviera is a sweet nod to Santa Barbara, Calif., where Markle resides with her husband, Prince Harry, and their two children.Furthermore, the USPTO said the addition of the word Orchard “does not diminish the primarily geographical descriptiveness of the applied for mark.”It added that since there is a location mentioned in the brand’s name, “a public association of the goods and services with the place is presumed.”The government agency also warned that the “Suits” alum’s product descriptions could fit into multiple trademark categories.At the time, her team said the pushback was “routine and expected.” Sources told The Post that her camp was gearing up to respond in due course.The former actress was given three months to address the response made by ...