College Apparel Store abruptly closes three locations in Michigan

Finding Go Blue branded clothing and accessories is about to get a little more difficult as three M Den stores in Michigan have suddenly closed their doors.

Heritage Collegiate Apparel Inc., the owner of six M Den locations, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Friday (August 16).

The company made the announcement on Monday on X, stating:

“As part of our ongoing reorganization efforts and in anticipation of the sale of our company, we have made the difficult decision to close two more of our locations,” the post said. “This decision was not made lightly and we deeply appreciate the support and loyalty you have shown us at these locations over the years.”

Which M Den stores are closed?

According to Crain’s Business Detroit, the company has closed its stores in downtown Detroit as well as locations at Briarwood Mall in Ann Arbor and Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi.

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The Briarwood Mall location was the company’s oldest store, opening in 1982.

Heritage Collegiate says all laid-off employees will be offered jobs at the chain’s three remaining Ann Arbor locations.

Parent company prepares for sale

According to Crain’s, the University of Michigan athletic department wants to end its 30-year relationship with the company that owns M Den, but is pushing to keep the brand name. Mlive points out that Heritage Collegiate indicated in its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing on Friday that it would no longer use the M Den name.

In the future, the U of M hopes to partner with Indianapolis-based Legends Global Merchandise to sell its UM-licensed merchandise.