Meghan Markle has reportedly ruffled royal feathers by investing in a vegan latte brand and recruiting Oprah Winfrey to promote it. Insiders say there were “more than a few raised eyebrows” following the news that Meghan invested in Clevr Brands, a startup using vegan oat-milk for coffee lattes. She is reportedly building “a portfolio of startup investments” in a bid to remain financially independent from the Royal Family.
She and husband Prince Harry stepped down from their senior royal duties in January and have since embarked on a number of ventures, including a multi-million production deal with Netflix.
On Monday, Oprah Winfrey shared a post on IG Story with her 19.2 million followers, about a a gift from “my neighbor M,” along with a crown emoji. Oprah and Meghan are neighbors in Montecito.
Oprah's post read: “On the first day of Christmas my neighbor “M” sent to me…a basket of deliciousness! (Yes that M) My new drink of choice for the morning and night. Wish I had @clevrblends sooner cause I would’ve added it to my Favorite Things list. #HappyHolidays
A royal source told The Mirror: “It is hard to see how emojis apparently trading on royal connections is respecting the values of the royal family.”
The latte kit bag is $28.
In a statement given to Page Six, Markle said of her investment in the brand, which is led by co-founder and CEO Hannah Mendoza, “This investment is in support of a passionate female entrepreneur who prioritizes building community alongside her business.”
She added, “I’m proud to invest in Hannah’s commitment to sourcing ethical ingredients and creating a product that I personally love and has a holistic approach to wellness. I believe in her and I believe in her company.”