Kate Middleton's parents 'shed half of their staff' from family business

Kate Middleton's parents have reportedly let go for half of their staff from their family business, Party Pieces.

Owned by Carole Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge once worked at the popular party supply shop which sells decorations, costumes and cakes, but the future of the business is currently unknown, according to The Sun.

The publication reports three members of staff were laid off this week, with a fourth employee being told their future at the company was uncertain.

"There is a terrible air of doom and gloom about the place," an insider said of the business, which was launched by Carole in 1987.

However, Prince William has been "nothing but supportive" of his in-laws amidst the alleged business woes, Page Six reports.

"He’s always admired that they were self-made," a source told the outlet.

Carole and husband Michael are also reportedly keen to grow the company, and are even said to be in discussions with potential investors.

On the Party Pieces website, Carole states all three of children — Kate, Pippa and James — were involved in the development of the business at different stages.

“It’s always been a family business and all the children have played a part," she says.

"James established our personalised photo cakes, Catherine started the 1st birthday side of the business, and Pippa developed the Party Pieces blog.”

Here's to hoping they can keep the business in the family.