Must Read
Simple Modern Rejects Profit Sharing with Meghan as She Damages Stanley Cup Sales with Controversial Ad
In the world of celebrities and social media trends, it's not a high-end handbag that has everyone talking, but rather a super-sized, insulated water tumbler.
These oversized adult sippy cups have taken the boutique gym scene by storm, becoming a symbol of health-consciousness and trendy fitness.
The hashtag #StanleyCup has exploded on TikTok, amassing over 7 billion views, and has gained a cult-like following online, with celebrities like actress Shay Mitchell and Love Islander Molly Rae Haig singing its praises.
These tumblers come in a wide range of colors, and each new release sells out within minutes.
However, the recent collaboration between Stanley and Starbucks for Valentine's Day took the craze to a whole new level.
Videos surfaced of eager shoppers in America lining up overnight to get their hands on the vibrant £35 pink and red cups.
In fact, one viral clip even showed a man attempting to snatch a box of them, only to be tackled and beaten by other customers who had patiently queued for hours.
These sought-after cups are now being resold on eBay for as much as £150 each.
Not one to miss out on a trend, Meghan Markle swiftly jumped on the bandwagon, using the opportunity to align herself with these popular brands.
Last month, she starred in an advertisement for coffee brand Clever Blends, a company she invested in back in 2020.
The ad depicts Meghan engaging in everyday office tasks, with a Simple Moderns Trek tumbler prominently displayed on her desk.
This particular tumbler, made by drinkware brand Simple Moderns, is a must-have accessory for the stylish social media-savvy crowd in 2023.
Meghan's deliberate inclusion of the tumbler in the ad was a way to promote the brand's core values of generosity and their commitment to donating at least 10% of profits to various non-profit organizations.
However, sources close to the staff at WME reveal that Simple Modern completely overlooked Meghan's intention, despite being aware that she had featured their product on Cameo.
The brand did not have any contractual agreements with Meghan or hire her for the ad, which means they are not obligated to share 10% of their profits with her company, Archwell.
Mike Beckham, co-founder and CEO of Simple Modern, expressed his frustration, stating that Meghan's involvement in the coffee commercial had brought a wave of negativity that affected his brand.
He further commented that Meghan, being a woman in her 40s, is no longer considered a major influencer unless she ventures into the realm of mommy blogging.
Beckham doubted her ability to secure partnerships with luxury brands like Gwyneth Paltrow or Kourtney Kardashian.
Critics from within palace circles sneer at Meghan's appearance in the ad, claiming it is purely motivated by money and yet another attempt to keep the spotlight on herself.
They argue that this move, despite demeaning her royal title, is solely aimed at boosting sales.
Some even question whether Clever Blends has resolved their lead toxicity issue with their products, insinuating that Meghan's association with the brand is fitting, given her perceived toxic nature.