Merchology + UNRL Partnership

Merchology + UNRL: A Merch Match Made in Minnesota

Did you know Minnesota is the best place to start (and grow) a business, thanks to its skilled workforce, innovative tech, robust infrastructure, and quality of life? It’s no wonder so many well-known companies got their humble start in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Medtronic began in a garage in northeast Minneapolis, Polaris Industries in a metalworking shop in Roseau, and Best Buy Co. in a modest stereo component store in St. Paul.

Merchology is proud to walk the same path. What started as a small family business in Minnesota 10 years ago has grown to 275 employees across three states, providing more than 100,000 companies with high-quality custom-branded merchandise from over 300 top brands people know and love. 

As we celebrate this milestone, it’s incredible to reflect on the employees, customers, and suppliers who shared the journey with us. We're grateful for every bit of support and look forward to a future filled with more growth and innovation. 

And that includes our partnership with UNRL, another small, Minnesota-founded company celebrating a decade in business after starting with $300 and a vision. We’re excited to offer a homegrown solution for trendy, high-quality, custom-decorated athleisure apparel for corporate events and gifts.

 

 

 

 

Teaming Up to Challenge the Status Quo

In 2022, UNRL sought to expand its business into corporate merchandise. They wanted a trusted partner with top-notch decoration capabilities and superior customer service to complement their high-quality products. Merchology was the perfect fit, and it’s a seamless partnership with shared goals, values, and passion for premium apparel. 

UNRL’s athleisurewear combines comfort, function, and fashion, transitioning smoothly from workouts to casual social settings without sacrificing style. It’s corporate-branded apparel that employees want to wear instead of what they have to wear, a game-changing difference. 

UNRL has quickly become one of the hottest brands in the country, featuring partnerships with the Minnesota Wild, Minnesota Vikings, and Barstool Sports. Their presence was unmissable in a 2024 Super Commercial, and fans of Netflix’s Full Swing series might have recognized the Ryder Cup Crossover Crewneck. It’s also a favorite of Merchology employees (shout out to the ever-popular Crossover Hoodie)!

 

"We see things a little differently at UNRL. We aren't here to make promotional apparel, we're here to make premium apparel.

We’re here to raise the standards when it comes to co-branding.

Partnering with Merchology provides us the platform to connect with likeminded companies who see the value in aligning their brand with quality products. We trust Merchology to work hand in hand with our corporate clients from start to finish - providing tailored solutions to fit their needs." – Michael E. Jordan, CEO of UNRL

 

 

UNRL complements Merchology’s goal of offering the highest-quality products from world-class brands. We give companies awesome customized merchandise that makes people proud to represent their brand, elevating corporate swag to an all-new level. Merchology + UNRL is a winning combination!

 

"Working with Michael and the entire UNRL team to build our partnership has been an absolute blast! Ally and I have a special appreciation for UNRL’s entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to trailblaze when it comes to product launches, design, and decoration capabilities. Reception from our customers on custom UNRL projects is always unreal! We are lucky to work with their team and be their trusted partner in the corporate channel." - Andrew Ward, President of Merchology

Athleisure Apparel is IN for Corporate Events and Gifts

The trend toward athleisurewear (everywhere) accelerated because of the pandemic, resetting the dress code in offices across the country, whether in person or at home. From the workplace to the gym, airport, or a business dinner, people want to show up in style and comfort wherever they go. 

Does your organization have a summer golf tournament coming up? Merchology’s custom UNRL polos and hats make everyone feel like a pro. 

What about a 5k fun run, a give-back event, or a company outing? Our UNRL hoodies, tees, pants, and ¼ zips customized with your logo give teams stylish and comfortable gear they’ll love, standing out from traditional corporate merch. Instead of being stuffed in a drawer or thrown out, your employees will wear these pieces again and again for a lasting impression with quality that lasts. 

The best news of all? The wait is over for custom UNRL women’s athleisure apparel, expanding Merchology’s fantastic selection for your employees.

 

 

 

Stitched Together with Shared Values

In addition to sharing a common goal of creating the highest-quality merchandise, Merchology and UNRL embrace similar corporate values: empowering employees, creating a positive culture, and improving our communities by giving back.

UNRL donates 10% of its profits to support organizations and causes that matter, significantly impacting the community. In a similar spirit, Merchology donates to environmental causes with our membership in the 1% for the Planet program. 

Merchology and UNRL team members are committed to supporting those in need closer to home, such as co-sponsoring local events through the University of Minnesota Foundation, which supports the Masonic Children's Hospital. Our legacy is not just about what we create but the impact we make.

 

 

 

Rooted in Gratitude

In business, the currency of success isn't just money—it's relationships. We're grateful for our partnership with the UNRL brand and its employees. Relationships like these are the backbone of our business—they’re like family to our family. We want to share our gratitude for UNRL's brand by sharing them with you!

Want to give your team a stylish and comfortable upgrade with custom-decorated UNRL athleisure apparel? Contact our Merchologists today to explore products, colors, sizes, and more. 

Looking for a simple, streamlined process for ordering custom UNRL for your whole team? Ask us about creating a MerchStore! With this unique tool, your employees and fans can shop branded merch selected by you, including your favorite custom UNRL styles. Let's make your next corporate event or gift unforgettable!