Gundam is great! I have seen MSG, MS 08th team, Millers Report, 0080, 0083, Z, X, Chars' CC, Wing, EW, F91, G Savior and SEED. I have and waiting to watch ZZ, and V. Well that is problem #1 with Macross, not enough sequels in a timely fashion and expanded global release.
Gundam releases: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/index.htm
Notice the Variations and side stories that far exceed the TV shows. Those get merchandising as well.
Macross releases: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/macross/macross.htm
As you see very few. The bad part is that most only like SDF Macross.
Bandai mainly is a toy company. The Gundam shows sells models and toys. They can take a Gundam and remake it 50 times and still sell it with or with out a TV show. Mobile Suit Variations for example. Even thought X got cut short they release the models this year with out the show being reshow. They can take the same Gundam and market them in different styles and they sell like hot cakes. Look at HLJ Gundam section http://www.hlj.com/scripts/category.cgi?manufacture=gundam Many choices to suit your tastes. Now look at the Macross Section http://www.hlj.com/scripts/hljlist.cgi?Ser...ry=SciOth&Dis=2. One section and no categories.
Main problem is how many VF-1's do you really want.
Bandai owns Gundam license. Big west and Harmony Gold are fighting over theirs. Gundam has no hindrance as to getting shows and merchandise to its fans. That is a big factor in its lead over Macross. Me personally am not a show person. I like buying merchandise so Gundam has become my fix. I even started getting Gundams for shows I have never watch and that is powerful. After watching Macross I still mainly get most VF-1's. With me the more powerful the Gundam the better. Example Wing Zero and Freedom.