SE Nalpac EDU by Alex Aho
Nalpac EDU recommends retailers stock “boutique” to distinguish their stores from department chains dipping into adult sales.
(Note: This story appears in the February 2024 issue of SE Magazine)
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s major chains like Walmart dabble in pleasure products, and online platforms like Amazon feature thousands of low-price-point generic toys, competing as an adult retailer can feel difficult. But along with the availability of “fast fashion” style products is a growing wave of “boutique” brands with smaller runs, heightened exclusivity and high-end appeal. By partnering with these smaller boutique brands, savvy retailers can make their stores a destination spot and take on the quality reputation, exclusivity and mainstream appeal these manufacturers carry.
Manufacturers like Dame, despite their smaller size compared to more established brands, made a splash when they created their Eva vibrator. With national coverage on their crowdfunding campaign and mission of feminine empowerment, Eva and subsequent toys became sought-after products. This toy, with a selective run and a clear-cut focus, attracted new buyers not just to the brand, but to the stores that carried it.
By partnering with smaller boutique brands, savvy retailers can make their stores a destination spot and take on the quality reputation, exclusivity and mainstream appeal these manufacturers carry.
Nowadays, there are more brands using a similar focus to create exciting products for every niche. Innovators like Banana Pants make attachments like the BumpHer that provide textural massage to the wearer, making strap-on play more pleasurable. Strap-on experts like SpareParts refine harnesses to make them wearable under clothing or with a larger body. Designers like Liberator innovate furniture like the Tula Toy Mount for new positions of play. Fashionable brands like Bijoux Indiscrets make bold, attractive kink wear. Each of these brands and products are attractions to savvy buyers in search of innovation.
Additionally, these brands’ emphasis on design makes for an image of accessibility that attracts new buyers. Cute Little Fuckers creates vibrators designed to be cute characters, making new shoppers go, “aww,” rather than, “ugh” at an advanced toy style they may be unaccustomed to. Playground, along with their wellness-sector-inspired designs for their lubes, carries the endorsement of co-founder Christina Aguilera. Even sexual enhancers, often associated with gas station pills, get a status bump from NUUD, makers of aphrodisiac vaporizers.
Smaller brands having wider appeal may seem counterintuitive, but it’s this exclusivity that makes a retailer stand out. While these products are high-ticket items for the consumer, they offer unique and innovative updates to attract new shoppers seeking accessibility and repeat shoppers satisfying their favorite niche.
To begin working with Nalpac, reach out at any time to sales@nalpac.com or call 800-837-5946. Visit nalpac.com to sign up for the email newsletter and follow on social media at @nalpac for daily updates.
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