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

Magic Silk Debuts 'Daffodil Dreams' Collection

Magic Silk has introduced its new Daffodil Dreams line of lingerie.

Playboy Launches Model Search for Honey Birdette Lingerie Collab

Playboy has launched a global model search for the face of the company's exclusive collaboration with lingerie brand Honey Birdette.

Xgen Expands Distro Deal With East Coast News

Xgen Products has expanded its distribution deal with East Coast News (ECN), with the latter now carrying the Lapdance Lingerie and Envy Menswear lines.

Orion Debuts 'Beasty' Jumpsuits

Orion Wholesale has introduced its new Beasty Suits reptilian role-playing jumpsuits.

Eldorado to Host 'Virtual Elevation' Webinar With Lovehoney

Eldorado Trading will host its next "Virtual Elevation," a live, private webinar for retailers, featuring Lovehoney Group's John Marinello and Kim Card, and Eldorado Marketing Director Nathan Morimitsu, on April 23 at noon PDT.

Sportsheets Expands 'Shadow' Collection

Sportsheets has expanded the Shadow collection from its Sex & Mischief line of BDSM gear.

COTR Acquires Together Brand

COTR, Inc. has acquired the assets and distribution rights of pleasure brand Together.

Kiiroo Introduces New Leigh Raven Mouth Stroker

Kiiroo has debuted the new FeelLeigh Raven mouth stroker sleeve from its FeelStar line.

Xgen Hosts 'Ask a Sexologist' Events in Arizona

Xgen Products has wrapped up its “Ask a Sexologist” in-store event series featuring resident sexologist Dr. Mindy at Fascinations retail locations in Arizona.

Kyle Sievert, Rachael Wolfe Join Full Circle Sales Team

Kyle Sievert and Rachael Wolfe have joined the sales team at Full Circle.

Show More