Jim Harbaugh has stimulated khaki economy in Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan is hoping Jim Harbaugh will help turn its football program back into a national championship contender, thus bringing more revenue to the school. But Harbaugh doesn’t even need to coach a game to stimulate the local economy.

According to the New York Times, retailers in the Ann Arbor area have noticed a spike in khaki sales since Harbaugh was announced as the Wolverines’ new head coach. Michigan students already planned a “khaki out” at the basketball game where Harbaugh was officially introduced. The pants came from somewhere.

Scott Hirth, an owner of M-Den, the university’s official merchandise retailer, said it saw increased sales of all khakis in its Ann Arbor stores this week (it sells both pleated and flat-front versions, as well as Dockers with a block M stitched into the back pocket for $70). “Let’s just say we sold way more khakis than your normal Monday,” Mr. Hirth said just before leaving to deliver boxes of khakis to its concession stand at Crisler Arena, where the basketball game was soon to begin.

A manager of a local Walmart has even moved khaki pants into the section of the store where Michigan gear is sold. Van Boven Clothing, a men’s store that sells high-end clothing, has been selling a pair of khakis that feature a block “M” for $135. Yep, people have been buying them.

Remember what Harbaugh’s wife Sarah had to say about Jim’s wardrobe selection? Seeing thousands of fans dressed like him certainly isn’t going to inspire Harbaugh to change.

H/T Dr. Saturday