Is it common for bands to be so frugal with merchandise?

[bluecalmsea]

I don't follow any other artists very closely- so maybe you guys can help me out.

Why does FM continue to use old photos for promotion? Shouldn't we get new photos with each tour?

Why are so many of their t-shirts so bland and ugly? (Don't get me started on Stevie's ugly merchandise- ugh)

Are we going to get a fresh batch of new designs this tour, or more recycled left overs?

What is up with this contest?:

http://creativeallies.com/contests/7...od-mac/entries

I would think it was cool if the prize was tickets or VIP passes, or something really special. But this reeks of we only want to pay $500 for something that will be used to promote a tour that will generate MILLIONS OF DOLLARS- and it really bothers me!

Anyway, just wondering, is this typical of bands these days? (Does the band even make these decisions?)

I would just love to have awesome memorabilia and I feel like we don't get it anymore!

Oh- and for a positive spin- anyone want to share what their favorite memorabilia is? Got any photos?