As Ever founder Meghan Markle has launched a luxurious advent calendar of 24 chocolates, priced at about $148 (£112). Buckingham Palace's version costs $15.85 (£12).
The launch has raised eyebrows over thematic similarities to royal properties. Critics call it the latest in a line of projects competing with the British monarchy.
Sources said, "From the King's jam to the Princess of Wales Christmas special - even ousting William and Kate from the 2026 Aussie tour list, this is just the latest in what seems like a long line of 'steal their thunder' projects." Insiders added, "The Royals don't understand why she doesn't have ideas of her own - and why she would line herself up so obviously against their already established centuries-old brand."
A source said, "There's no way Meghan's calendar is worth three times the amount - she's only going to humiliate herself, not only with sales, but by taking on the Royals on their own turf," pointing to growing friction.