Quoted from evileye:Merch is a common term in the concert/music scene, and I’m sure elsewhere as well. Stern positions itself as a boutique for pinball and pop culture. Even though most of the younger generation can’t afford to buy their games, they’re still trying to appeal to them. Look at the models wearing their clothes.
This. I have had guys work for us that became confused when the term “merchandise” was used. Nowadays using the full word makes you sound like a Hollywood mobster. Not a recent development.