University of Michigan

Immersive Pop-Up

Summary

Michigan’s alumni community is one of the largest—and most passionate—in the country. For one weekend in Chicago, The M Den helped them reconnect with the spirit of their alma mater by bringing a beloved piece of Ann Arbor to the heart of the city.

Their Ask

Create a temporary retail experience in Chicago that would bring The University of Michigan’s official merchandise store, The M Den, closer to alumni and fans during football season.

Our Solutions

Turnkey transformed a 7,300-square-foot storefront in Chicago’s Lincoln Park into The M Den, an immersive retail destination for Michigan fans. Creating opportunities to shop, gather, and celebrate Michigan pride, the pop-up gave alumni a place to reconnect with both their school and each other. 

Through The M Den, Turnkey helped Michigan transform alumni engagement into an in-person brand experience. By creating a destination that reflected the university’s identity, the activation strengthened school pride and extended the reach of the Michigan brand beyond Ann Arbor.

By The Numbers

7,300 sq. ft.

retail destination

$165,000+ event specific 

product sales 

6 retail partners 

featured under one roof