profile

Exec Seat: Q&A with Al Bloom, CalExotics

In 40 years, Al Bloom has accumulated a wealth of knowledge, accomplishments and accolades within the adult industry. Credited for being instrumental in establishing the adult home video industry and its legal protection by a unified entity — the Free Speech Coalition, Bloom later moved into the pleasure products side of the business when he joined CalExotics in 2003. Ten years later, Bloom continues to play an integral role at CalExotics as the newly minted director of business affairs for one of the industry’s most renown manufacturers. “Al Bloom is an icon in our industry,” said Susan Colvin, President and CEO of California Exotic Novelties. “He’s been an integral fighter for the platform of free speech and the laws surrounding the adult industry. He’s a senior member and invaluable executive of California Exotic Novelties. His intelligence, passion, dedication and endearing personality have made him a key element to our overall success.”

Jackie White, vice president of sales of California Exotic Novelties adds, “I’ve had the pleasure of working side-by-side with Al for the past 10 years at California Exotic Novelties and enjoyed every minute. The scope of Al’s expertise is felt in every aspect of the business. From marketing and sales to legal and business affairs, Al is a true master of his craft. He’s given critical insights in product development, orchestrated trade show booth construction, created comprehensive marketing campaigns, and developed many of the business strategies that brought CalExotics to where it is today.”

To me, the adult industry has been my life-long career. I am in my 43rd year and have worked in every facet of this industry. California Exotic Novelties is an opportunity to work with a very successful operation, and get to lend a hand to make it even better. —Al Bloom

How does it feel to be with CalExotics for a decade?

When you say “decade” it feels like a really long time! These last 10 years have literally flown by, and I attribute that to the pace of life at California Exotic Novelties. It honestly feels like only yesterday that I joined Susan, Jackie and all of the great people here.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

First off, I never considered it a job. To me, the adult industry has been my life-long career. I am in my 43rd year and have worked in every facet of this industry. California Exotic Novelties is an opportunity to work with a very successful operation, and get to lend a hand to make it even better. It’s a team here, and I find the sharing of my knowledge with everyone here most rewarding. To work on a daily basis with folks just starting out in this industry is a true honor.

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

Since I joined the company I have had a hand in hiring dozens of new members of our staff. I am most proud not only in their success, but in the way that every new employee has “fit” into the culture that Susan and Jackie have created here at California Exotic Novelties. That, and new perspectives on how to market the company and the great products we sell are most satisfying.

How has your role in the company evolved since you joined the team?

I started here as director of marketing by title, but over the years my role has expanded into many of the business and legal areas of our business. As we expand into new markets and territories around the world, I find that my ability to negotiate deals, protect our intellectual property, and work with new markets, has taken a large amount of my time. I am still a part of marketing, but it is now a team effort which allows me time to work with every department here with their own unique needs on a daily basis.

Discuss the new Senior Director of Business Affairs role?

My new title is indicative of how my role has evolved over the last 10 years. Susan and Jackie want each department to function in the areas of their expertise, without having to deal with the business and legal minutiae that seems to take time away from core responsibilities. When I first signed on 10 years ago, Susan gave me a list of duties. Sure, there were marketing items on the list, but it didn’t take long for me to realize that the list was stuffed with tasks that nobody here wanted to do! So, this new title really defines Al Bloom at California Exotic Novelties.

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 Articles

opinion

Scroll-Stopping Social Media Strategies to Capture Short Attention Spans

Attention spans are shrinking across all types of media. No matter how innovative a concept may be, if it doesn’t stop the scroll, it’s quickly forgotten. That’s why Netflix has intentionally been simplifying its content, with executives directing writers to create scripts that are less complex and nuanced, and more second-screen-friendly.

Naima Karp ·
opinion

The Hidden Cost of Letting Retail Define Pleasure Brands

Not long ago, spotting vibrators and lubricants at a national chain like Target or CVS might have raised eyebrows. Now, it’s almost expected.

Rin Musick ·
profile

WIA Profile: Kelsey Harris

At sister distribution brands Nalpac and Entrenue, one woman is in charge of leading customers in the right direction: Director of Sales Kelsey Harris. Since Michigan-based Nalpac took the reins of Arizona’s Entrenue, Harris has led both sales teams from her home base in Oakland County, Michigan.

Women in Adult ·
opinion

Rebranding Sexual Wellness Through a Self-Care Approach

As most of us in the industry already know, sexual wellness remains the black sheep of self-care. Discussions about wellness glorify meditation apps, skincare routines and workout regimens — but mention masturbation or using a sex toy, and most people shy away from the topic.

Hail Groo ·
opinion

Why Sex Toy Innovation Isn't What Shoppers Want Right Now

During my first year in the industry, the luxury vibrator on shelves was LELO’s Gigi, priced at $109. It was made with high-quality silicone, boasted an ergonomic design, a travel lock and a warranty. Soon after, Je Joue released its first product, SaSi, which employed “rolling ball” movements to simulate oral sex.

Sarah Tomchesson ·
opinion

How Adult Retailers Can Enhance Sales With Supplements

The supplement industry is big business. In 2024, Future Market Insights estimated it to be valued at $74.3 billion, and other market research firms anticipate that number will grow to upwards of $170 billion in just 10 years.

Rick Magana ·
opinion

Why It's Time the Pleasure Industry Got Serious About IPX Waterproof Ratings

As someone who regularly communicates with manufacturers, retailers and consumers, I’ve seen how this ambiguity can do a disservice to both the customers who use these products and the businesses that sell them.

Alicia Sinclair Rosen ·
opinion

Tips for Sexual Wellness Brands to Win Over Gen Z This Summer

As summer rolls around, the excitement in the air is palpable, especially for one particular demographic: Gen Z. College and university classes are over, vacations are booked and it’s time to let loose.

Naima Karp ·
opinion

Celebrating the LGBTQ+ Community With Inclusive Packaging Design

Pride Month is a time of visibility, joy and self-expression. In the pleasure industry, projecting that energy can start with something as simple as a box. Market research shows that 72% of U.S. consumers say product packaging influences their purchasing decisions.

Matthew Spindler ·
profile

WIA Profile: Pettus Ashley

Pettus Ashley brings her A game to the world of authentic adult branding, flitting between airports as the American face of U.K. brand Bathmate. As a company brand ambassador, Ashley personifies Bathmate’s dedication to the retail world, showering staff with equal amounts of appreciation and sales education.

Women In Adult ·
Show More