Shop Talk

Two decades ago, an adult store owned by a woman with an all-female staff — one that also caters to women, couples and the LGBTQ communities — was practically unheard of. But today, stores like Dee Bertino’s three Fantasy Gifts locations in New Jersey are more the norm than ever. Here, Bertino explains why she gravitated to this industry,...

How is your store promoting Anal August this year? If the answer is "I don't know" or "My store isn't promoting it," then you're missing out on some optimal marketing opportunities. Anal August is the perfect time to advertise products designed for the rear, and it's not too late to get started! Perhaps you need some inspiration? Here are some...

Some adult store owners are seeing this as a sign to bring back their DVD sections. After PornHub's decision to ban Idaho residents went into effect last month, a Boise staple that rents X-rated videos has seen an upsurge in foot traffic. Founded in 1975, the Over 19 Adult Shop also provides customers with private video booths where they can...

SE Focus Cover by Claire Sass Retail buyer for the Knock First store in Maryland, Claire Sass, shares her perspective on stocking smoke products in an adult store, as well as advice for those who may have some reservations about the cross-merchandising. (Note: This story appears in the April 2024 issue of SE Magazine)  R ecent trends in our industry have owners wondering...

SE Store Chain Profile by Larry Kaplan Adam Hedrick and Loretta Goodling of the Excitement Superstores explain how they’ve successfully integrated smoke products into their inventory, and why they believe these products have been a valuable addition. (Note: This story appears in the February 2024 issue of SE Magazine)  As more adult retail locations begin to add smoke products to their inventory,...

SE Store Chain Profile by Larry Kaplan There’s a world of difference between banking and erotic retail, but the transition from one to the other has transformed the life of Loretta Goodling of the Excitement store chain. (Note: This story appears in the February 2024 issue of SE Magazine)  Fifteen years ago, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania native Loretta Goodling had achieved the title of...

SE Store Chain Profile by Larry Kaplan Adam Hedrick, District Manager for Excitement Superstores, is as committed to the success of their seven current locations as one might imagine any manager being. Here, Hedrick explain exactly what drives him and what provides the Excitement stores with their unique identity. (Note: This story appears in the February 2024 issue of SE Magazine)  Adam...

SE Store Chain Profile by Larry Kaplan (Note: This story appears in the February 2024 issue of SE Magazine)  It started with vinyl records. It evolved to smoke products. And eventually, David Betesh moved into adult products and became one of the most successful store owners in the Keystone State. Betesh grew up in the retail industry; his parents owned a Philadelphia...

The humble Red Garter storefront shares its glittering 60-year history, which has served patrons of great fame including one Elvis Aaron Presley. (Note: This story appears in the December 2023 issue of SE Magazine)  Red Garter is a family-run adult store with a lot of history, according to Brett Westley, who co-owns the store with his mother, Roz Westley. Back in...