Old Main Mercado
Old Main Mercado is a University of Arizona-driven collective of Tucson community landmark partners. Each licensee of the Old Main Mercado label has a distinct story and Bear Down spirit that connects them to the university, and their products and services unite generations of Tucsonans, visitors, Arizona Wildcats, and fans.
Vendor Spotlight:
Si Charro Wild Sauce
Crafted in collaboration between the iconic Si Charro restaurants and the University of Arizona, this limited-edition hot sauce is packed with bold, flavorful punch that’s perfect for heat seekers and food lovers alike.
Made with a blend of fiery chiles and a hint of tangy citrus, Wild Sauce elevates any dish—from tacos to burgers and beyond—with a perfect balance of heat and flavor. Whether you’re cheering on the Wildcats or spicing up your everyday meals, this is the ultimate sauce for U of A fans and hot sauce enthusiasts.
Heliotrope
Cicada Candles
Experience luxury with Cicada Goods' clean-burning, hand-poured candles—elevate your space!
TimberTote
Preorder TimberTote’s official University of Arizona designs now! Exclusive items to show your Wildcat pride!
Tannas Botannas
Coming Spring 2025
Interested in applying for an Old Main Mercado license?
The university invites members into the collective who have a rich local heritage that helps make Tucson unique. Being a part of Old Main Mercado allows members to leverage the university’s brand equity through licensed marks displayed on certain products sold through specified distribution channels without the more extensive costs and stipulations that are part of a more traditional licensing agreement.
Items offered serve a niche audience that values this class of specialty items and the compelling stories behind them, which the university promotes through focused marketing efforts.
If you are interested in applying to join the Old Main Mercado program, please submit a request. The University of Arizona Trademarks & Licensing department will be in contact with you within 72 hours of receiving your submission.
Vendor FAQ
Companies interested in becoming an Old Main Mercado licensee are required to be based in Southern Arizona and align with the University's goals and mission. Companies will need to submit an application for review and enter into a minimum of a two-year contract with the University of Arizona.
Old Main Mercado is an open boutique license type that is tailored to highlight Tucson and Southern Arizona’s local businesses. Products must be shelf-stable and align with the University of Arizona’s mission and values.
The program is unable to accept proposals for coffee and tea products, drug and/or vape paraphernalia, nicotine/cigarette categories, adult entertainment, weapons, or from businesses outside of Southern Arizona.
Yes. The University owns the likeness of it’s intellectual property. There is a flat fee for the first year a licensee is a part of Old Main Mercado. Following years will shift from a flat fee to a % of sales back to the University. There is a two (2) year minimum commitment to joining Old Main Mercado.
The University will rely on the licensee to drive the product innovation and development, however is more than happy to assist on design work and marketing materials to help make your Old Main Mercado product successful!
No. Old Main Mercado is reserved for local companies, retailers, markets, and Direct to Consumer sales. Your company may be a good candidate to become a licensee for the University of Arizona through the university’s licensing agent. Please see more information on becoming a standard licensee here.
You may be a good candidate for the university’s Small Crafter’s Program. The Crafter License is intended for individuals who handcraft items bearing the University of Arizona logos. Individuals who hold this license are not allowed to generate more than $2,500 in sales or sell more than 500 units in a calendar year. For more information on becoming a U of A Crafter, please email licensing@arizona.edu.