Kentucky fan merchandise store suddenly announces closure of brick-and-mortar stores
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Kentucky Branded announced on July 15 it will be closing its brick-and-mortar locations.
- Customers were encouraged to visit Fayette Plaza and 4600 Shelbyville Rd. before closing.
- Kentucky Branded will continue online sales and offer in‑store discounts up to 70% off.
Kentucky Branded, which sells University of Kentucky and University of Louisville merchandise to fans, announced suddenly on social media that its stores will be closing permanently.
The news comes as the owners are facing at least two ongoing lawsuits. The owners did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
“After many incredible years, we’re deeply saddened to announce that we’ll be closing our brick and mortar locations. Every customer, every purchase, and all of your support has meant the world to us,” the store announced on July 15.
The post encouraged customers to visit the stores at Fayette Plaza at 3801 Mall Road and in Louisville at 4600 Shelbyville Road before they close. It did not mention the store at 2300 Sir Barton Way, so the fate of that location is unclear. The phone numbers at both Lexington locations appeared to be disconnected on Wednesday afternoon.
Kentucky Branded said items in the stores would be up to 70% off. It did not give a closing date for the stores.
It’s also unclear if online sales will be continuing.
Kentucky Branded appears to be owned by Christopher and Erin Ring; Christopher Ring and Kentucky Branded were sued in September 2023 by a company that makes branded athletic apparel.
According to the lawsuit, which is ongoing, Chris Ring worked for a competitor and supplier, Ad-Venture Promotions, as a sales representative. Ad-Venture alleges he left and took proprietary customer information that was used at Kentucky Branded.
The Rings purchased Kentucky Branded from founders Joseph Kawaja and Brian Sykes, who started the shop in 2014.
On June 17, 2026, a complaint was filed in New York Supreme Court against Ring and the parent company of Kentucky Branded by a cash-advance merchant lender, alleging that the company owes more than $158,000 after failing repeatedly to make payments on an advance.
