No idea on the merchandise, but we saw it this weekend as well, and I think it's brilliant. I will not be surprised if it is nominated not just for best animated film but best picture.
Having said that, I will be (pleasantly) surprised if the merchandising for the movie has a huge impact. The complex story seems to be best suited for about age 6-7 and up, there is no "villain", and it's not a musical.
I admire Pixar for producing this amazing film, and I am sure it will do well at the box office, both because it is Pixar and as a result of the universally glowing critical acclaim. I hope that people who would not normally go to a "kids' movie" will see it. And I hope I am wrong about the merchandising impact.