College Apparel Store Abruptly Closes Three Michigan Locations

Finding 'Go Blue' clothing and accessories will be a little more challenging, as three M Den stores in Michigan have abruptly closed their doors.

Heritage Collegiate Apparel Inc., the owner of six M Den locations filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Friday (8/16).

The company made the announcement Monday on X, saying:

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

What M Den Stores Are Closed?

According to Crain's Business Detroit, the company shuttered its stores in Downtown Detroit as well as locations in the Briarwood Mall in Ann Arbor and Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi.

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

Heritage Collegiate says all displaced staff members are being offered positions at the chain's three remaining locations in Ann Arbor.

Parent Company Prepares for Sale

According to Crain's, the University of Michigan athletics department is looking to end its 30-year relationship with the company that owns M Den, but is pushing to keep the brand's name. Mlive notes that Heritage Collegiate's chapter 11 bankruptcy filing on Friday indicated that it would no longer be using the M Den name.

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