Erotic Magazine Spurned by Tesco for Sexy Features, Officials Say

LONDON — “Scarlet,” the independent erotic magazine for women edited by sex expert Sarah Hedley, has had its advances spurned by supermarket giant Tesco, which reportedly decided the magazine is too sexy for its shelves.

The glossy monthly, launched last year and currently selling about 30,000 copies per issue, is stocked in Borders and WHSmith but was this week told by Tesco that its erotic fiction and sexy features were a turn-off, according to magazine officials. The magazine includes adult features and articles covering a broad range of women’s sexual and relationship issues as well.

Publisher Gavin Griffiths told pressgazette.co.uk that he hoped Tesco officials might change their minds in the future. He said he is "very disappointed" at the decision.

"If you look at titles like Nuts and Zoo, they are just pornography,” Griffiths said. “I don't understand why they are allowed on the shelves but erotica for women isn't. Tesco is the biggest supermarket, and getting on its shelves is hugely important for us. I want as many women as possible to be able to read Scarlet."

Tesco last week caused controversy after it decided to introduce a range of battery-powered sex rings made by Durex. According to industry insiders, a decision to stock a sexually explicit magazine might be considered unwise following the coverage.

However, a spokeswoman for Tesco said the decision not to stock the title was based on space and timing. She added that the company had not said no to a long-term agreement and might consider adding “Scarlet” to its list in May next year.

Copyright © 2025 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

FSC Drops Florida AV Lawsuit in Wake of SCOTUS Decision

A U.S. district court judge granted on Tuesday a motion by Free Speech Coalition to dismiss the trade association’s lawsuit over Florida’s age verification law, a case that had been on hold pending the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the constitutionality of state AV laws.

Gal Ritchie Toplines Dorcel's 'Pigalle'

2025 XMAs winner Gal Ritchie stars with Clara Mia in the latest feature from Dorcel, titled “Pigalle.”

Ukrainian President Responds to Porn Legalization Petition

President Volodymyr Zelensky responded Tuesday to an OnlyFans model’s petition to decriminalize pornography in Ukraine, stating that he would wait for the legislative process to play out “in accordance with established procedure.”

Penthouse Names Sharna Beckman July's 'Pet of the Month'

Penthouse Magazine has named Australian model Sharna Beckman as Pet of the Month for July.

Only Tax Deductions Joins Pineapple Support as Sponsor

Adult industry accounting firm Only Tax Deductions has joined the ranks of over 70 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources to Pineapple Support.

Adult Empire Launches 'Conversations' Podcast Series

Adult Empire has launched a new official podcast series hosted by Nicole Chappelle and Charlie.

Adult Time Names Alison Rey as Newest Brand Ambassador

Adult Time has named Alison Rey as the studio's newest brand ambassador.

Violet Myers Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Reigning XMAs Premium Social Media Creator of the Year Violet Myers stars with Mick Blue in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "Anal Exam."

Digital Playground Premieres Marvin Love's 'The Last Resort'

Digital Playground has debuted Marvin Love's new feature, "The Last Resort."

Juliana Marie Stars in Latest From New Sensations

Juliana Marie stars with Danny Mountain in the latest release from New Sensations.

Show More