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 © 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

Hankey's Toys Introduces 'Big Pop Mushroom,' 'Xtra-Small Series IV' Dildos

Hankey's Toys has debuted its Big Pop Mushroom dildo and the new Xtra-Small Series IV line of dildos.

Brent Aldon, Erik Vasquez to Co-Host Retail Edition of 2026 XBIZ Honors at Avalon Hollywood

Aneros Director of Sales and Marketing Brent Aldon and Sliquid VP of Marketing Erik Vasquez will co-host the 2026 XBIZ Honors, set for Jan. 11 at Avalon Hollywood in Los Angeles.

Kiiroo Introduces New Argenta Stroker

Kiiroo has debuted the new Feel Argenta stroker sleeve from its FeelStar line.

Howl Launches New 'Ambassador' Referral Program

Wellness brand Howl has launched its Ambassador referral sales program.

Womanizer Unveils 'Next Duo' Vibrating Air Pulse Massager

Womanizer has introduced its Next Duo vibrating air pulse massager.

Orion Debuts 'Double Vibrator' From Couples Choice Line

Orion Wholesale has introduced the Double Vibrator from its Couples Choice line.

Orion Debuts 1st Christmas Collection From Cottelli Lingerie Line

Orion Wholesale has introduced the first Christmas Collection from its Cottelli Lingerie line.

Honey Play Box Introduces 'Vibrosa' Egg Vibe

Honey Play Box is debuting its new Vibrosa app-controlled egg vibrator.

ProDx Health Joins The Play as New Testing Partner, Launches 'Play Safe' Kit

ProDx Health has joined lifestyle organization Play LA as its new testing partner and marked the partnership with the launch of its Play Safe kit.

Cliterature Introduces Pleasure Products Collection

Cliterature has expanded its collection with new vibes, all packaged in the brand's book-shaped boxes.

Show More