I think what needs to be taken away from all this is with future merchandise, it may be wise to post up the design and options for the members to vote on or give their opinions on prior to being sent off to be made. And put a time limit on gathering opinions, cos I've seen good committee ideas not come to fruition because too many pundits had varying opinions on how something should be done.
The whole secrecy behind the design might be what has startled a few members. You can't really say "I don't like the big GTR logo on the hoodie", after the hoodies have been made, especially given the time and effort that goes into getting them organised. That sentiment might have been better received before the hoodies were made, but as no one knew what they were gonna look like other than the committee, then the only time you're gonna hear that sentiment is after they're made.