Ever since Linda McMahon pioneered WWF merchandising back in the 1980's, it has been a big part of how money is made in the pro wrestling industry. That's truer than ever right now, with WWE Shop orders booming online. As for merchandise purchased at the arenas, sales were up in 2015, with $10.54 spent per head. WWE are always working towards improving these numbers, with regular new lines of merchandise for the likes of Roman Reigns and John Cena. In some ways, shows like Raw are just a great big advertisement for the merchandise. Subliminal messaging to buy the t-shirts is a constant on the broadcasts, with wrestlers regularly wearing their merchandise in order to influence fans to purchase it. This is what being a 'mark' is all about; falling for WWE's manipulation and buying into the wider product range.
