(Note: This press release first appeared on the Storerotica website on Jan. 4, 2023. This is a reprinted version alongside quotes from industry peers remembering Nick Orlandino featured in the February issue of SE Magazine)

The industry veteran, who spent more than three decades in the business, was an integral member of the founding of the ANME show.

Nick Orlandino, former CEO and chairman of Diamond Products (aka Pipedream Products), passed away at the beginning of the year. Orlandino retired in 2018 after more than 35 years in the business, and over that time he became one of the pleasure product industry’s key figures.

In 1996, Orlandino founded the Adult Novelty Manufacturers Expo (ANME), the industry’s first and largest business- to-business tradeshow. In 1999, he was appointed to the Board of Directors for the Free Speech Coalition, where he served as Treasurer for four years. In recognition of an outstanding career as CEO of Pipedream Products, Orlandino was included in the 2008/2009 Princeton Premier Registry, where he is listed among the most accomplished business leaders and professionals.

In January 2014, Orlandino received his eighth leadership award when he was named Free Speech Coalition’s 2014 Man of the Year. The award recognized Orlandino’s lifelong contributions to the adult industry and honored him for his 30 years of service.

As the news of his sudden passing reverberated throughout social media, industry friends began sharing their condolences in recognition of a man who was intimidated by some but respected by many more.

Bestowed with countless industry awards and recognition from trade publications across the globe, Orlandino never shied away from controversy, nor the limelight. During his tenure, he consistently added to his larger-than-life personality, one that could be felt if he liked you or — heaven forbid — he did not.

Nick Orlandino is survived by son, Cole.

“This industry wasn’t built on the backs of shrinking violets, but when Nick walked in a room, you actually felt it,” says STOREROTICA’s PR and Marketing Director, Kristofer Kay. ”There wasn’t a single conversation I had with him where he wasn’t in total control, but over time if you were true to your word and demonstrated integrity, Nick would open up and be incredibly warm and friendly. You had to earn his trust. That’s old school. I always appreciated that, and him.”

Industry peers remember pioneer Nick Orlandino

“I have known Nick for almost 30 years, and our friendship got stronger as we set up ANME. At the time, the novelty business was much smaller than the video business, and we felt that getting the five largest manufacturers together would help bring the novelty business to the forefront. We also felt it was in the industry’s best interest to open the show to other US novelty manufacturers. That is how ANME began, and 27 years later, we are still going strong. Nick’s impact on ANME and our industry can still be seen and felt today.

Nick was a fierce advocate for Pipedream and the adult industry. When he started at Pipedream, the company was primarily a novelty business with gag gifts and bachelorette party supplies. Nick had an incredible vision for Pipedream and was instrumental in making the company one of the largest manufacturers in our industry.

Over the years, Nick and I became good friends with a strong respect for one another. We would look to each other for advice even though we were intense competitors. I have always admired Nick’s strong will and his dedication to the people and things he loved most. I will miss him dearly, and my condolences are with Nick’s family and friends.”

— Susan Colvin, Founder and CEO CalExotics

“It’s hard to express the immense sorrow and emptiness that I feel learning of the passing of Nick. He was a pioneering leader in the growth and development of this industry and was a good friend to my late husband Larry and myself. He had a powerful presence and was a no- nonsense businessman. I’m proud to have known Nick and will forever have a spot for him in my heart. We will all miss him dearly.”

— Wanda Garland, CEO of Eldorado

“Nick Orlandino was so much more than a grand figure of our industry. His approach was direct and if you connected with him, his care and generosity were unlimited. Gritty and tough exterior with a sensitive and caring interior. Knowing Nick was a true blessing.”

— Paul W. Reutershan, Sales Ambassador, Williams Trading Co.

“Nick was a good friend who was an amazing guy with a lot of vision, talent, and charisma. He was an asset to our industry; gone too soon and will be missed dearly by many including myself.”

— Elliot Schwartz, President, Nasstoys

 

“This is not how I wanted this year to start. We saw each other through so much and overcame so many obstacles! I was the only one that wasn’t scared of you. You paved the way for me and that will never be forgotten, I love you forever, my friend. Thanks for being you.”

— Briana Honz-Watkins, M.D. Science Lab’s VP of Sales and Marketing

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of Nick Orlandino. Nick was a showman, a visionary, a rockstar, and most of all, a mentor and friend to so many of us. Nick will forever remain a part of Pipedream’s past, legacy, and future, and he will be sorely missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends, and to everyone in this industry he cared so much about. Rest in paradise, Nick-E Luv!”

— Kristian Broms, Chief Design Officer for Pipedream Products

“Nick loved the ANME show and this industry. He was direct, generous and a mentor to many. He will be missed.”

— Val Jones, ANME Director