Michael and Carole Middleton have been branded “tasteless and vulgar” for allegedly “cashing in” on their daughter’s unborn baby.
Before Kate was even out of her first trimester, her parents’ party supplies company Party Pieces was selling royal baby-themed merchandise.
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Their decision to sell miniature castles, plates for ‘A New Little Princess’ and ‘A New Little Prince’ has outraged commentators, who have accused the Middletons of “exploiting” their grandchild.
“It is tacky, tasteless and vulgar and from what I know of William and Kate, I would expect them to be highly embarrassed,” Michael Thornton, royal correspondent at the UK’s Daily Mail, wrote.
“It would appear the arrival of their first grandchild has been seen by Kate’s parents as a marvellous business opportunity.
“Let me be frank: this money-making ploy on the part of the already wealthy Middletons brings a shudder of distaste and unease to all those who admire their royal daughter.”
It’s not the first time the Middletons have been accused of profiting from their daughter’s royal connections.
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The Party Pieces site sold an extensive collection of royal wedding merchandise in 2011 and last year offered a range of Diamond Jubilee-themed products.
Former flight attendant Carole started Party Pieces in 1987. Michael later quit his job as a pilot to help run the business which is now extremely successful.
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