10 Steps to Successfully Selling Sex Toys Online

Understanding how to sell sex toys effectively is a cornerstone of success in this burgeoning market. This guide distills the process into 10 key steps, ensuring you’re well-equipped to launch and grow a thriving adult toy business. Each phase is crafted to inform and inspire, setting the stage for a venture that not only meets market demand but also excels in a competitive industry.

The Potential of the Sex Toy Market

Is the sex toy market a viable and growing industry for new businesses? Absolutely. Recent statistics paint a clear picture of a burgeoning sector with expansive growth potential.

• The global market size for sex toys was estimated at USD 32.7 billion in 2022. In the same year, North America accounted for a 33.3% share of the global market. (Grand View Research)
• The Asia Pacific region holds the largest market share, with the United States market size alone nearing 11 billion U.S. dollars. (Statista)
• The market is expected to grow to USD 35.2 billion in 2023 and continue to expand at a CAGR of 8.50% through to 2030, potentially reaching USD 62.3 billion. (Grand View Research)

These statistics demonstrate a current strong market presence but also suggest a robust and steady growth rate, making the sex toy industry a promising field for investment and innovation.

How To Sell Sex Toys In 10 Steps

Craft a Comprehensive Business Plan

Begin with a solid foundation by developing a thorough business plan. This document should serve as your roadmap, detailing your vision, business structure, market analysis, operational strategies, and financial forecasts.

Key components include:

• Executive summary: This is a snapshot of your business plan. Include the business name, the products you will offer, your mission statement, and the specifics of the business structure. For example, “Sexy World Browns Plains” will be a boutique offering a curated selection of high-quality sex toys and accessories, aiming to provide a safe, inclusive, and educational shopping experience.

• Market analysis: Research and present data on the sex toy industry, consumer trends, and target demographics. Understand the competition, identify gaps in the market, and explain how your business will fill those gaps. For instance, your analysis might reveal a local demand for educational workshops on sexual wellness, which “Sexy World Browns Plains” could provide.

• Organization and management: Describe the legal structure of your business, whether it’s a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation. Outline the roles and responsibilities of the management team. Detail the experience and skills they bring to the business.

• Products and services: Explain the types of products you plan to sell, emphasizing any unique features or benefits. Consider including a line of eco-friendly or body-safe products if research indicates a market preference.

• Marketing and sales strategy: Document how you will attract and retain customers. This might include online marketing, social media campaigns, in-store events, and loyalty programs. Explain your sales process and customer service philosophy.

• Financial projections: Offer realistic financial projections, including startup costs, funding needs, sales forecasts, and profitability analyses. Use graphs and charts to make this data clear and compelling.

Secure Financing

With your business plan in hand, you’ll be prepared to secure the necessary funding to launch and sustain your business.

• Explore funding options: Investigate various sources of funding, such as small business loans, angel investors, crowdfunding campaigns, and government grants tailored to small businesses or entrepreneurs.

• Prepare financial statements: Create detailed financial documents, including projected income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets, which are often required by lenders and investors.

• Payment processing: Establish relationships with banks and payment processors that are comfortable working with adult-oriented businesses. High-risk businesses often face more stringent requirements and higher fees.

Select the Ideal Location

The location of your sex toy business is a critical factor that can impact its accessibility and appeal to customers. It’s essential to ensure the chosen spot complies with local zoning laws, especially since adult stores typically have restrictions regarding their proximity to schools, churches, or residential areas.

Finding the perfect spot requires a mix of visibility for walk-in traffic and discretion for customers who may prefer to keep their purchases private. A location that manages to be low-profile, yet easily accessible, can become an advantage by offering that sense of privacy to shoppers.

Beyond the physical store, consider establishing an online presence. An e-commerce website will serve customers who prefer the discretion of shopping from home, widening your market reach and providing a convenient shopping alternative.

Obtain Necessary Licensing

Operating within the legal confines is paramount, especially in an industry that is closely regulated.

To sell sex toys legally, you’ll need to navigate through the bureaucracy of obtaining the correct licenses. The process begins with understanding the specific local and state regulations that govern the sale of adult toys and products. A general business license is typically the starting point, which grants you the right to conduct business in your area. However, due to the nature of your products, you might also need to obtain additional permits that pertain specifically to adult businesses.

Each city and state will have its own set of rules, and it’s important to comply with these regulations to avoid any legal complications. The licensing process may involve several interactions with government entities, and it’s advisable to maintain a good relationship with them. They will be responsible for conducting inspections and ensuring your business adheres to all necessary health and safety standards. Taxes and other regulatory requirements will also become a part of your regular business operations.

Establish Wholesale Accounts

Rather than randomly selecting items, curate your inventory based on market research and customer preferences. Trade shows and wholesale expos are excellent venues for discovering a variety of products and connecting with suppliers. It’s at these events that you can find items like penis pumps and other sex toys that cater to specific customer needs, such as enhancing sexual performance or addressing erectile dysfunction.

Attending these expos allows you to engage with sales representatives face-to-face, negotiate pricing, and establish a rapport that can lead to beneficial partnerships. These relationships are key to obtaining quality products at competitive prices and can provide you with insights into the latest industry trends and popular items.

Invest in a POS System

When selecting a POS system, it’s important to choose one that’s adaptable to the unique needs of a sex toy business. This includes managing inventory across multiple locations, offering a seamless customer shopping experience, and providing comprehensive sales reporting.

Systems like ConnectPOS can be particularly advantageous, offering customization options for store layouts and loyalty programs, which can help you build a strong customer base and encourage repeat business.

ConnectPOS is a POS solution that is customizable for various industries, including sex toy businesses. It supports inventory management across locations and provides adaptable store layouts. With loyalty program tools and real-time sales insights, ConnectPOS enhances customer experience and encourages repeat visits, positioning your store for success in a competitive market.

By carefully advancing through these steps, from legal compliance to product sourcing and implementing a POS system, you lay a solid foundation for your sex toy business. These efforts position your enterprise for success in a competitive and growing market, ensuring you are well-prepared to meet customer demands and navigate the complexities of the adult industry.

Employ an Accountant

An accountant with proficiency in accounting software such as MYOB or Cashflow Manager is a valuable asset. These tools enable the accountant to keep accurate records of income and expenses, prepare tax returns, and generate financial reports, which are essential for the health of your business.

With the majority of small businesses relying on such software, hiring a skilled accountant can help streamline your financial management and allow you to focus more on the strategic aspects of selling sex toys.

Arrange Your Shop’s Layout

When designing your shop’s layout, consider the customer journey from the moment they enter.

Use strategic lighting and signage to create an ambiance that encourages exploration while maintaining privacy for sensitive products. Display products by category and use educational signage to inform customers, which can be especially helpful for those new to sex toys. Remember, a well-organized store with clear sections can significantly enhance the shopping experience.

Hire and Manage Your Employees

The staff you hire must be approachable, knowledgeable, and respectful of customer privacy. Training programs should be implemented to ensure that your employees are well-versed in product knowledge, customer service excellence, and sensitivity training specific to the adult industry. The staff manual should be a living document, regularly updated with the latest policies and product information, ensuring that all team members are aligned with the company’s values and objectives.

Some of the topics that you may want to include in your staff manual are:

• The mission, vision, and values of your business
• The code of conduct and dress code for your employees
• The health and safety rules and precautions for handling sex toys
• The customer service guidelines and best practices The inventory management and quality control procedures
• The payment methods and sales incentives
• The employee benefits and performance evaluation criteria
• The disciplinary actions and grievance procedures

Leverage Front Windows and Online Marketing

Your front window displays are your silent salespeople. They should be tastefully arranged to attract attention without alienating potential customers due to the nature of your products. Keep displays dynamic, changing them regularly to reflect the latest trends, seasonal events, or promotions.

In terms of online marketing, consider creating educational content that can help destigmatize the adult toy industry and empower customers to make informed decisions. Video tutorials, blog posts, and customer reviews can be excellent tools for engagement. Additionally, email marketing campaigns can keep your customer base informed about new products and exclusive offers.

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for your online store. By optimizing your content for relevant keywords, you can improve your store’s rankings, making it easier for potential customers to find your shop when they search for adult toys online.

Rising Trends in the Sex Toy Market

The sex toy industry is rapidly evolving, riding the wave of tech integration and societal shifts. Here’s a glimpse into the current trends that are reshaping this vibrant market:

1. App-Enabled and Bluetooth-Powered Toys

The dawn of teledildonics has arrived with app-enabled and Bluetooth-powered toys leading the charge. These high-tech pleasure devices sync with smartphone apps, allowing for unprecedented customization and control. The convenience of tailoring the experience to personal tastes is pushing the boundaries of intimate tech, making these gadgets increasingly sought after.

2. Remote-Controlled Sex Toys

The world seems smaller with remote-controlled sex toys that defy distance. Designed for couples in long-distance relationships or those seeking a new kind of closeness, these toys can be maneuvered via the internet or specialized apps. This trend is not just about pleasure; it’s about maintaining a connection, underscoring the emotional facet of the sex toy industry.

3. The LGBT Community’s Growing Demand

As inclusivity becomes a watchword across industries, the sex toy market is no exception. There’s a burgeoning demand from the LGBT community for toys that cater to a spectrum of sexual orientations and preferences. This segment’s growth is a testament to the sex toy industry’s adaptability and commitment to serving every individual’s desires.

4. Customization and Realism

In the quest for a deeply personal experience, emerging market players are turning to realism and customization. Advanced materials and design innovations are creating products that not only look lifelike but feel remarkably authentic. This push towards realism caters to a clientele that seeks an experience that’s as close to the real thing as possible.

5. Increased Awareness and Positive Perception

The changing social climate has ushered in a new era of openness toward sex toys. As conversations about sexual wellness grow, taboos are fading, leading to a broader acceptance and curiosity about exploring one’s sexuality. This shift isn’t just driving sales; it’s encouraging a dialogue about pleasure and intimacy that’s long overdue.

These trends signal a future where sex toys are not just novelties but integral components of the sexual experience and expression. As the market continues to diversify and innovate, it seems poised for even more dynamic growth in the years to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when charting a course on how to sell sex toys, your ten-step roadmap should culminate in building a community around your brand. Engage with your audience beyond the transaction—initiate conversations, educate on sexual wellness, and create a safe space for customer feedback. By fostering a sense of belonging and trust, you not only sell products but also empower individuals to embrace their sexuality. This community-centric approach can set your business apart in the competitive sex toy market, turning customers into loyal advocates and driving the long-term success of your venture.

ConnectPOS offers robust point-of-sale solutions tailored to enhance your sex toy business, streamlining sales, inventory, and customer relationship management with ease. To elevate your retail experience and harness the full potential of ConnectPOS, contact us today!

Source: ConnectPOS