Retro Piggly Wiggly pig merch sparks collector craze across the Midwest

Piggly Wiggly’s retro pig mascot has become a hot commodity, prompting collectors to travel significant distances for merchandise. Nicola Miller, based in Suffolk, England, will detour up to 50 miles to a U.S. store to acquire another Mr. Pig T-shirt after first spotting the character in a 1978 film. Terry F. Goins, the chain’s Midwest marketing and advertising director, explains that the logo’s unchanged, hand-drawn style resonates with shoppers of all ages, offering a sense of regional pride rather than mere nostalgia.

Founded in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1916, the grocery chain grew from a single store to over 500 locations across 18 states. While the company sells branded items online and in stores, individual franchisees also create unique designs reflecting local schools and events. Seasonal drops, limited-edition pieces and even temporary tattoos at the Wisconsin State Fair have driven steady demand, with thousands of reusable bags handed out in minutes.