In a twist that could rival any Hollywood plot, the high-profile executives at AirVenture Partners have decided to cut ties with CleverBlends, and it’s all thanks to Meghan Markle‘s recent foray into the world of advertising.
The fallout from her attempt to reinvent herself as an influencer has turned into a PR disaster, leaving many wondering how it all went so wrong.
Markle, who once harbored dreams of stardom in Tinseltown, found herself struggling to land roles after her acting career fizzled out.
With her agency seemingly unable to secure her any gigs, she took matters into her own hands, aiming to build her brand through CleverBlends, a coffee company in which she holds a stake.
However, her ambitions didn’t translate into success.
In a bold move, Meghan starred in an Instagram video promoting CleverBlends, clearly believing that her celebrity status would drive sales through the roof.
Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case.
Despite the initial excitement surrounding her appearance, the anticipated sales spike never materialized.
While CleverBlends did manage to secure a spot on Target’s shelves nationwide, the reality is far less glamorous than it sounds.
The price tag for their products at Target stands at a hefty $18, which many shoppers might find a bit steep for a typical Target purchase.
To add insult to injury, their online prices soar to an eye-watering $28.
But the real shocker?
Insiders revealed that CleverBlends is actually selling its products at a loss through Target.
This drastic measure was taken after Meghan’s promotional efforts resulted in a staggering 45% drop in revenue.
It’s a classic case of a marketing strategy gone awry, leading to a swift retreat by the executives at AirVenture Partners.
The decision to part ways with CleverBlends highlights a broader lesson about celebrity endorsements and the risks involved.
For those contemplating partnerships with the Markles, this situation serves as a stark warning.
The allure of celebrity can quickly turn sour when the financials don’t align with expectations.
Let’s break it down further.
Meghan’s involvement with CleverBlends has not only failed to elevate the brand but has also cast a shadow over its reputation.
Instead of being showcased in high-end retail spaces, the brand found itself in a discount department store, which isn’t exactly where one would expect a celebrity-backed product to thrive.
Moreover, this attempt at boosting her public image through a personal stake in a coffee brand has backfired spectacularly.