Bears Merchandise Sales Surge 41% Amid Exciting Playoff Push

UPDATE: Chicago sports retailers are experiencing a shopping frenzy as the Bears gear up for the playoffs, igniting a 41% surge in merchandise sales compared to last year. With the team’s thrilling comeback victory against the Green Bay Packers last week, excitement is palpable across the city, marking the Bears’ first playoff appearance since January 2021.

At Clark Street Sports, co-owner Jason Caref reported a substantial increase in sales, stating, “Christmas came early for our company this year.” The buzz is so intense that finding a parking spot at their busiest location in Albany Park has become a challenge. Store manager Fatima Reynoso described this past week as the busiest she has seen in her four years at the store.

Customers are rushing in for Bears gear, with many eager to snag items ahead of the playoffs. Camilo Cumpian, who visited the store to buy a Bears hat for his son, expressed hope for a return to the glory days of Super Bowl XX. “If we’re lucky, history will repeat itself,” he said, reflecting the nostalgia and excitement shared by many fans.

Wrigleyville Sports, located at 959 W. Addison St., is also seeing record demand. General manager Devin Carlstrom reported, “Sales have been crazy. Bears gear was on everyone’s Christmas list.” Customers are flocking to the store, both for last-minute gifts and game day essentials. Popular items include the “Good, Better, Best” T-shirts inspired by Coach Ben Johnson’s post-game slogan.

As Bears victories boost local businesses, retailers are reveling in the change of fortune after a challenging year marked by inflation and dwindling sales from struggling teams. Caref noted, “It’s a challenge to buy merch for teams that are not performing well,” highlighting the impact of the Bears’ success on small businesses.

Fans like Addam Haynes are capitalizing on the team’s winning streak, buying even more Bears apparel despite receiving merchandise for Christmas. “Now that the team is winning, it’s exciting to wear their clothes,” he said, capturing the city’s collective enthusiasm.

At Clark Street Sports, jerseys of star rookies such as running back Kyle Monangai and tight end Colston Loveland have been flying off the shelves, selling out within 48 hours at prices between $130 and $175. With a cold snap in Chicago, winter gear branded with the Bears logo—such as hats, gloves, and scarves—has also seen heightened interest.

While Clark Street Sports is poised to launch new merchandise declaring the Bears division champions, Caref remains optimistic yet cautious. “As soon as they win, we can sell it,” he stated, reflecting the anticipation among fans and retailers alike.

With the city rallying around the Bears, the atmosphere around local sports bars has transformed. Associate Wes Nunez at Clark Street Sports noted, “The atmosphere was electric. Everyone was grinning from ear to ear.” Football, he emphasized, is more than just a game; it unites the community and instills pride in being a Chicagoan.

As the Bears continue their playoff journey, all eyes are on the team, and local retailers are ready to capitalize on this surge of enthusiasm. Expect more updates as fans gear up for what could be a historic playoff run.