LOS ANGELES — Vibe Expo, “The Pleasure Show,” has unveiled its full schedule of workshops, discussion panels and social events designed to provide valuable insights and networking opportunities for industry professionals.
Before Vibe Expo opens its doors to the public on Friday, Jan. 12, members of the pleasure industry and sexual wellness community will have exclusive access to the event taking place at the stylish Loews Hollywood Hotel.
Vibe Expo’s industry-only sessions kick off at 10 a.m. with “What’s in Store: Strategies for Retail Success.” In this insight-filled session, industry leaders will delve into the challenges, strategies and innovations shaping retail success in the current market. Experts from renowned adult establishments will share their innovative approaches to creating unique in-store experiences for brick-and-mortar customers. Among the panelists are Museum of Sex’s Kit Richardson, La Clef des Charmes Toulouse’s Celine Menting, Lula Pink’s Agata Grze?kowiak, the Pleasure Chest’s Ruth Arceo, Spectrum Boutique’s Zoe Ligon, Hustler Hollywood’s Signe Jarvis and Excitement Adult Stores’ Loretta Goodling.
At 11 a.m., it’s “Pitching Pleasure: Sales and Marketing,” hosted by Bswish and Zini. This session will explore how fast-evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements and the drive toward greater inclusivity are shaping both the sexual health and wellness sector and its sales and marketing strategies. Panelists include Bonner Trading’s Ian Kulp, Tending the Garden’s Jimanekia Eborn, Kim Marks of As You Like It, COTR’s Tracy Felder, Carolyn Eagle of Betty’s Toy Box, Nicoletta Heidegger of Sluts & Scholars, Sportsheets’ Nathan Hammerle and Tonga’s Mira Waidelich.
“The Future of Pleasure” panel, hosted by Imbesharam, will take place Friday at noon. This workshop session will engage participants in an interactive dialogue analyzing the past year’s developments and exploring what lies ahead for the world of pleasure products. Tailored for entrepreneurs, marketers and product developers, the panel will feature Museum of Sex’s Kit Richardson, Spectrum Boutique’s Zoe Ligon, CNV’s Ann Houlihan and Besharam’s Raj Armani.
At 1 p.m., a panel of pleasure products pros welcomes the new year with “The Shape of Things to Come: Tracking Sex Toy Trends,” a discussion hosted by JanraStores.com and featuring Sportsheets’ Kelly Sofferman, Kheper Games’ Brian Pellham, Doc Johnson’s Scott Watkins, Aneros’ Brent Aldon and Deja Vu’s Megan Swartz. Expect a forward-looking exploration of top-selling products, designs, features, technology and materials.
Friday’s industry-only schedule wraps up at 2 p.m. with the Vibe Expo Mix & Mingle, a networking event where industry professionals can unwind, meet new faces and engage with peers over beverages.
Industry attendees are invited to stick around for the ribbon-cutting ceremony that will mark the official opening of Vibe Expo to the general public.
On Vibe Expo’s second day of B2B workshops, industry leaders from the adult retail and smoke shop sectors unite to explore the dynamic synergy between cannabis goods and sex toys. The 11 a.m. session “Elevated Pleasure” will explore how these two industries complement each other, catering to an adventurous consumer base. Panelists will include Scott Watkins (Doc Johnson), Efren Mendez (Lovestore Mexicalli), Matthew Skinner (Paradise Glass), David Betesh (Excitement Adult Stores), Jeff Hirschfeld and Cam Jennings (Champs).
At noon, a workshop titled “Out of the Dungeon, Into the Mainstream: Selling Fetish” follows. Hosted by Grand Opening, the session will feature Mike Sullivan (Bad Dragon), Cheri Curry (Tantus) and Kim Airs (Grand Opening).
Next, dive into the evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ representation in the pleasure industry with “Meeting the Needs of Diverse Markets (LGBTQIA+) in 2024.” Hosted by Aneros, the discussion will feature Justin Depow (CockBlock Toys), Kit Richardson (Museum of Sex), Buck Angel (Demon Kat), Chelsea Downs (NYTC), Phoebe Grott (Nalpac/Entrenue) and Brent Aldon (Aneros.)
Celebrate the role of women in the industry during the Women Leaders Shaping the Business of Pleasure workshop, presented by Women in Adult. The 2 p.m. panel will feature insights from Carolyn Eagle (Betty’s Toy Box), Chelsea Downs (NYTC), Farah Shaikh (Rouge Group), Melanie Cristol (Lorals), Melinda Clark (XGEN) and A. Pettus (Bathmate).
Vibe Expo’s B2B workshop lineup wraps up Day 2 with another Mix & Mingle session set for 2 p.m..
Following each day’s B2B-focused workshops, trade attendees can also enjoy Vibe Expo’s lineup of engaging master classes and experiential sessions focused on fostering knowledge and awareness about sexual well-being. Throughout both days, Vibe Expo will also showcase an extraordinary range of products, including vibes, lube, games, lingerie and euphoric goods, along with complementary products for elevated pleasure.
To view the full trade schedule, click here.
For event information, visit VibeShow.com.
