Preserve, a lifestyle company by Blake Lively, which was launched in 2014, quietly disappeared after less than a year in operation. Despite its initial buzz, the company struggled behind the scenes with management issues and a toxic work environment. Now, amid Lively’s legal battle with her It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni, many are curious to know what exactly happened.
So, here’s everything fans need to know about Lively’s former brand and the reasons behind its closure.
Why did Blake Lively’s Preserve company shutdown?
The Another Simple Favor actress’ lifestyle brand, Preserve, was launched in 2014 as a high-end online shop for artisanal goods.
However, the company quickly fell apart within a year amid reports of a toxic and unprofessional work environment. Many such claims were made by former employees who spoke to the Daily Mail. Preserve operated out of a Manhattan studio apartment owned by Lively’s brother, Eric, who managed the day-to-day business.
Staff described the workplace as disorganized and unprofessional. There were claims that Eric frequently drank alcohol and used marijuana. Furthermore, he often overslept, leaving employees stranded outside waiting to get in. For months, workers allegedly had no desks. Furthermore, they had to sit on the floor in the cramped space, which combined living and office areas.
Some employees further alleged that Eric Lively had an affair with one of the staff members during his time running the company. Paychecks were reportedly delayed often, causing financial strain for some workers. A few even threatened legal action, which resulted in settlements reportedly reaching up to $300,000.
Additionally, all those involved were required to sign non-disclosure agreements, keeping the company’s issues out of public view. Meanwhile, neighbors allegedly complained about the apartment being used illegally as a commercial space, adding further problems for Preserve.
Preserve officially shut down in 2015, amid criticism for its pretentious marketing and flawed business model. Former staff expressed disbelief at Blake Lively’s current accusations of sexual harassment and a toxic set environment against director Justin Baldoni. They called it “ironic,” given their own experiences with her family’s mismanagement.
Moreover, the former employees said that during the failure of her lifestyle company, Preserve, Blake Lively seemed indifferent toward their struggles and the problems caused by her brother’s leadership. Meanwhile, the actress has yet to comment on these claims.
