Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have launched their new website Sussex.com amidst controversy. Some are questioning if it breaks a promise made to the late Queen not to use their Royal titles for profit.
The new site, which has replaced their previous one, Archewell, is now the go-to place for updates on Harry and Meghan’s charity work.
Despite its stylish look, some experts have raised eyebrows at the couple’s decision to prominently feature their royal titles and Meghan’s official coat of arms on the project.
One source told the Daily Mail, “It’s staggering they cannot see how gauche it is,” but a person close to Harry and Meghan defended their right to use their titles on the new site.
This back-and-forth has sparked rumours that the couple might be planning a significant rebrand. Oliver Sissons, SEO Director at Reboot Online, has given his thoughts to OK! on why the Duke and Duchess have decided to launch a new website and the timing of these changes.
Autonomy and Independence
Oliver shared: “One possible reason could be a desire for greater autonomy and independence from the traditional royal structures. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have both expressed their intention to step back from their roles as senior members of the Royal Family, seeking financial independence and the ability to pursue their own projects and initiatives.”
“Creating their own website could be seen as a step towards establishing their independent brand and platform.
“From a project management standpoint, a website rebrand suggests the Sussexes are taking the first steps in preparation for an announcement or launch of new projects or ventures.”
Control over Narrative
“By launching their own website, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex could have more control over their public image and narrative. They may feel that mainstream media outlets have not always accurately represented themselves or their views, or have sensationalised their previous actions and statements. Having their own platform allows them to communicate directly with the public and present their perspectives without filtering through intermediaries.”
Engagement with Supporters
“A new website could serve as a hub for engaging with their supporters and fans. It could provide a space for sharing updates, insights, and initiatives directly with their audience, fostering a sense of community and connection. The Duchess of Sussex previously retired her lifestyle space The Tig which shared wellness tips, recipes and musings, but it highlights that Markle has a flair (or even a preference) for blogging and connecting with her audience directly.”
Commercial Ventures
“The Sussexes’ online rebranding comes amid speculation that they may be seeking new production companies to work with or other commercial considerations. Their ‘About’ page reads: ‘The Office of Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex is shaping the future through business and philanthropy.”
“However, their £18 million deal with Spotify recently came to an end, and there have been rumours that streaming giant Netflix may not renew its £80 million contract. Meghan Markle has just announced a new podcast deal with Lemonada Media, highlighting how the dedicated website will serve as a central hub for finding, promoting and managing new ventures.”
Digital Presence
“In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for public figures to reach and connect with their audience. Launching a new website could be part of a broader strategy to enhance their digital footprint or to stay relevant in an increasingly competitive media landscape. On the new website, The Duchess of Sussex is hailed as a ‘feminist and champion of human rights and gender equity’ which could mark a return to Markle’s philanthropic endeavours.”
“The website launch is an interesting development in the widening effort of the Sussex’s to solidify their personal brand and continue to build their relevance outside of the royal family. From a website development and SEO perspective, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle using their official titles-despite the controversy it has caused-is particularly effective by way of personal branding, as it leverages their established recognition and association with the royal family to garner attention and visibility in online searches.”
“Moreover, integrating their titles into the website’s metadata and content can enhance its search engine optimization visibility, ensuring greater discoverability and engagement among their target audience. This strategic use of their titles, whilst considered ‘gauche’ by critics, maximises the digital footprint and influence of the Sussex’s in the competitive landscape of online media and branding.”
