Packers jerseys could be scarce soon

BROWN COUNTY - For the crowds shopping at the Packers Pro Shop and other local stores, one big item is on their minds.

"I would really like a jersey, especially a Rodgers or Woodson jersey. It was on my Christmas list," said Jacob Sindberg, who was visiting Lambeau Field’s pro shop from Waterford, Wisconsin.

But that item might not be left on the racks soon.

"The current provider, Reebok, is ending their contract with the NFL on March 31, so they brought in fewer goods late in the year than they normally would have, and Nike's contract begins April 1, and they can't bring in that until April 1," said Kate Hogan, director of retail operations for the Packers Pro Shop.

And with jerseys from Aaron Rodgers to Jordy Nelson flying off the shelves as soon as they come in, stores say they aren't sure if they can hold out until April.

"A little less than a week ago we had 200 of him, and now we are down to just this four-way rack of him," The Jersey Store manager Mike Walters said about Aaron Rodgers jerseys. “We got 80 Jordy Nelsons on Thursday and they were I believe, gone by Monday."

Retailers say there's certainly an increase demand heading into the postseason. But they also want to let fans know there will be an increase in price when the new jerseys hit the stores on April 1st.

“The authentic, on-field jersey will be going up to $250, which right now it's about $190 at the Packers Pro Shop. And the replica will be $100 versus $85 right now," said Hogan.

Fans we spoke with say after finding out about the price hike, they're snapping up gear sooner rather than later.

"I just knew that they were kind of changing the brand and everything, so I didn't know it was going to go up,” said Kalie DeGeorge, visiting Lambeau from Waukesha. “But I probably plan on buying one now before the prices go up."

Die-hards and retailers alike say no matter the price, fans will never stop wanting to support their team by dressing just like them.

Nike has yet to unveil its designs for the new Packers jersey.

An announcement is expected around the NFL draft time.

The current Reebok jerseys in stock can be sold until the supply runs out, even after April 1st.