California Exotics Owner Colvin Profiled in UNM Paper

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — California Exotic Novelties owner Susan Colvin was profiled in the University of New Mexico's Daily Lobo newspaper today, in an article titled "UNM Alumna Owns Largest Adult Store."

California Exotic Novelties is an adult novelty wholesale distributor, not a retail outlet.

The article tells of Colvin's history at UNM and her work history before she was asked to step in as operations manager for an adult-products distribution company, which became Cal Exotics. In the article, Colvin speaks of the changes in the adult business that she initiated. "[14 years ago], the toys were in boring packaging," Colvin said. "They were not very interesting - there were no colorful colors. It seemed that there was a lot that could be done, and that they should be female-oriented. At that time, all the companies that existed were owned and operated by men. "At first, people were like, 'Nobody's going to buy pink and purple,'" she said. "Even a dong, they were like, 'We don't want pink and purple. You've got to be kidding.' I said, 'It's pretty. I think a lot of women will like this. I know the men don't care, but the women will.' And you know what? They sold." Colvin also points out the challenges of selling adult products in an international market. "We came out with a cute little item with a koala bear on it," Colvin told the Lobo. "It was very popular in the United States and Europe, but in Australia it did not sell, because they said, 'Koalas are not cute and cuddly. Koalas are vicious.'" The article can be viewed here

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

XR Brands Expands 'Creature Cuties' Collection

XR Brands has added five new devices to its Creature Cuties line.

LELO Debuts 'F2S Double Sonic' Stroker

LELO has introduced its new F2S Double Sonic stroker.

Andy Eustace Joins Full Circle Sales Team

Andy Eustace has joined the sales team at Full Circle.

Biird Launches Partner Appreciation Campaign

Biird has launched a campaign to provide gifts to staff members of its retail partners across Europe and North America throughout September.

Xgen Names Blanca Estrada-Gonzalez as Latin America Account Representative

Xgen Products has named Blanca Estrada-Gonzalez as its new Latin America account representative.

Male Power Expands 'So Comfy' Collection

Male Power has expanded its So Comfy collection of men's underwear.

Orion Expands 'Cuties' Vibe Collection

Orion Wholesale has introduced four new devices from its Cuties vibrator collection.

Lovense, Tiny Secret Games Launch 'Snapshot' In-Game Store

Lovense and adult game studio Tiny Secret Games have launched a Lovense store inside the “Snapshot” virtual world.

Lightning Star World Debuts Casey Kisses Stroker, Dildo

Pleasure brand Lightning Star World has introduced its new Casey Kisses Collection.

Dr. Tush Signs Canadian Distro Deal With EP Products

Dr. Tush has signed a deal with Canadian distributor EP Products.

Show More