Revenue generated by the sales of licensed products is deposited in the University's general fund. Before companies are granted licensing privileges, they must first send all designs, and the actual merchandise that incorporates the registered marks, to Parsegian's office for approval. Once an item is approved, the company involved must sign a contract and pay an advance royalty at the time of licensing. After the product appears on the market, companies must then pay a royalty and report sales and royalties on a quarterly basis. The distribution makes the items accessible to a wide audience of football fans with varying budgets.
Several factors make North-western related products appealing to buyers.
In addition to being well made, and in good taste, they are done in two popular colors purple and black. The University's marks are also very attractive, making the fashion items flattering and fun to wear while showing support for Northwestern University. Another appealing factor is that New Year's Day 1996 marked the 82nd Rose Bowl Game and the 50th anniversary of the longest standing tradition of any collegiate conference and bowl association. Among the most popular items with local Northwestern fans are the small Northwest-ern flags that clip to the top of a car window and flutter in the breeze as one drives. School or team pennants, banners and cellophane sacks of NU-shaped pasta are also in demand.