Meghan Markle is said to be “panicking to try and make money back” amid her and Prince Harry’s professional separation, according to a PR and branding expert.

Meghan’s lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, was soft launched in March with a short promotional period on the company’s new Instagram page.

However, fans are still waiting for the official launch of the business.

The couple has changed tactics and gradually separated their professional projects with Prince Harry undertaking many solo public engagements.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry
Meghan Markle is said to be ‘panicking to try and make money back’ on her latest solo business venture

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Matt Yanofsky, PR and branding expert, is doubtful that Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand will succeed.

He said: “I have been wrong before, but I would say as of right now it is difficult.

“Maybe one of the products will be a hit, or maybe she will team up with the right manufacturer or right company.

“But outside looking in right now, it looks like people who are panicking to try and make money back.

“I’d be surprised if it succeeded, but all power to them. I hope it does.

Meghan Markle

He added: “It all comes down to this – is the base of fans for Meghan big enough to support this?

“Can it catch up with what it should be by the time the money runs out?

“Anything is possible, but as of right now, if I were an investor, I would be worried about how I would get my money out.

“They are pretending they have a brand. Maybe it becomes one through the back door, but right now it is ominous if you are trying to make money.”

American Riviera Orchard

Meghan launched an Instagram page for American Riviera Orchard earlier this yearInstagram

An existing firm which owns the Royal Riviera trademark has lodged a protest with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, according to the Daily Mail.

The current trademark owner, Harry & David, is a large American institution founded 90 years ago, with annual sales of £1.7billion and 3,300 staff.

It reportedly plans to sell products that Meghan believes align with her personality, including lifestyle products, home decor, food, and kitchen items.

The Sussexes are also working on separate projects for Netflix despite signing a lucrative deal as a couple after leaving the Royal Family.

A source told the Mail: “They will still carry out some charitable engagements together and embark on foreign visits, but their work projects will be separate.”