For the majority of those who answered our year-end readers’ poll, 2025 was a disappointing year. From tariffs to the economy, stores are looking forward to what a new year might bring.
Were your store’s sales up or down in 2025?
Up: 20% | Down: 60% | Same: 13% | Other: 7%
If your sales were the same or down, what would you attribute this to?
When asked why their sales were down, many store owners/buyers referenced tariffs and the economy (almost everyone said tariffs were the reason for a loss in sales in 2025).
Other answers:
“A variety of headwinds causing a general downturn in sales, generally across the industry. Major factors include the imposition of tariffs, cost increased for manufacturing goods, increased competition from online sellers willing to sell for pennies of profit, and consumer attitude toward products that are not ‘necessities.’”
“ICE terrorizing our city, month-long government shutdown and f***ing Amazon.”
“This is a store of wants, not needs. With a bad economy, no one is buying anything other than the essentials.”
Which product category sold best in 2025?
Vibes/Dildos: 40% | Anal Toys (For Men & Women): 15% | Lubes: 7%
| Lingerie/Soft Goods: 7% | BDSM: 7% | Other: 24%
What is the single biggest issue your store faced in 2025?
For the majority of store owners/buyers who answered this question, they noted that the cost of products from the manufacturers/distributors was the biggest issue their store faced in 2025.
Other answers:
“Keeping sales up, attracting more younger customers and couples.”
“Snow birds not coming as much or leaving for good because of everything going on.”
Which product category was your worst seller in 2025?
Lingerie/soft goods: 45% | BDSM: 45% | Other: 10%
If you could wave a magic wand (no pun intended!) and change something within this industry to positively impact your store in 2026, what would it be?
In addition to referencing the tariffs and economy, when asked this question store owners/buyers referenced the following:
“Diversifying our selling channels.”
“Make all products in America.”
“Lower-end lines from manufacturers. Maybe cheaper that does less, or more generic packaging. People are looking for deals; some only look in clearance lately.”
“Getting rid of Trump. Seriously. This craziness is killing us!”
“Make wholesalers not retail their own goods.”
“Making sure the MAPS are respected and barring folks from selling on Amazon and eBay.”
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