Missouri Western State University has set a new record. The school now says sales of officially licensed merchandise featuring Missouri Western have risen about 35% in the last two years, to more than $350,000, setting a record for retail sales and royalties for the fiscal year that ended June 30.

“It’s exciting that the popularity of Griffon clothing and merchandise continues to grow, and we want to thank our students, faculty, staff, alumni and community for visibly demonstrating their pride in Missouri Western,” said Mallory Murray, director of public relations and marketing.

“I believe the momentum will continue as we prepare to celebrate our centennial in 2015.”

The Rally House locations in St. Joseph, north Kansas City and Independence are the biggest reason for the increase, Murray said. In addition, Apple Market of St. Joseph has recently added Missouri Western merchandise.

“Together with our longtime merchandising partners, these new additions to the marketplace have made this growth in sales possible,” Murray said.

Recent athletic successes, including the school’s first football conference championship in 2012, have contributed to the growing merchandise sales, Murray said. She also credits the “Paint it Gold” community support campaign, which provided local businesses with free tools to display their pride in Missouri Western, including flags, buttons and window clings. More than 100 businesses are participating, and more are signing up all the time.

Students, faculty, staff and community members are encouraged to “Paint it Gold” each Friday, and the Office of Public Relations and Marketing gives prizes to random people spotted wearing Missouri Western clothing. Businesses interested in participating at no charge can call Murray at 816-271-5649.

Retail sales of licensed merchandise totaled $365,000 in fiscal year 2014, compared to $305,750 in 2013 and $271,250 in 2012.