Sex machines were once niche products reserved for adult films or the super-kinky and available exclusively from specialty markets and BDSM-centric retailers. In recent years, however, sex machines have come out from behind the veil of “kink only” stigma and found their way into a wide array of shops and boutiques. What was once taboo and inaccessible is now available from fully branded, merchandised, and competitively priced brands dedicated exclusively to mechanical sex. Running the gamut from the large-scale machines that many are familiar with to portable, concealable and less-conventional automized options that fit a range of lifestyles and price points.
Today we are going to talk about sex machines: what they are, how they work, and how you can successfully sell them in your store!
In recent years, sex machines have come out from behind the veil of “kink only” stigma and found their way into a wide array of shops and boutiques.
What is a sex machine?
This one’s easy! Sex machines are mechanical devices often made to simulate human sexual intercourse or other sexual activities. They can be penetrative like a thruster; extractive like a stroker; something else entirely, like suction or milking devices; or a combination of these actions.
Sex machines can be enjoyed by anyone. They’re easy to use, fun to use as a couple or on one’s own, and they come in so many sizes, styles and price ranges in order to appeal to new and seasoned users alike.
How do sex machines work?
All sex machines have electro-mechanical functions that let the device be used as a sex interface for a human and they all use some form of repetitive motion — sometimes more than one motion — to help the user reach orgasm.
Most machines have at least one primary motion: thrusting, spinning, lapping or sucking. In this day and age, sex machines are incredibly varied, but they’re all automated toys that can be used to thrust, spin, suck, or more. Here are some of the most common sex machine options available today:
• Thrusting Machines
These are some of the most well-known sex machines and often are what come to mind when people think of sex machines. These are by far the most fun to use with two or more people. This style includes handheld devices and free-standing sex machines that thrust in and out.
• Stroking Machines
These are automatic masturbators that surround the penis with soft, squishy material and stroke up and down without the user having to make any additional effort. These are meant to simulate oral sex, manual sex, vaginal sex, and even anal sex.
• Spinning Machines
Spinning devices can either be in a mounted base or a handheld “drilldo” type device. A Drilldo is an electric drill with a dildo or stroker attachment that locks in place and spins quickly in circles. These can be used solo or with a partner.
• Lapping Toys
These are typically smaller-scale handheld products that emulate the sensation of a tongue licking across skin. These products are great for this kind of play because they’re so compact and easy to hold.
• Sucking Machines
Milking/sucking machines come with a variety of attachments and cylinder sizes to fit the genitals of almost any user and are suitable for solo or group play.
How do you sell sex machines?
Sex machines can be intimidating for shoppers and sales staff alike, especially for those who are wholly unfamiliar with the category. Remember that sex machines aren’t just for “advanced” users. While they can be daunting at a glance, most people find that once they’ve had a chance to touch, feel and see them in action, their curiosity is piqued. Although many sex machines are generally larger-sized items that aren’t terribly portable or store-able, customers may be surprised that some of the smaller machines are more accessible and discreet than they could have imagined, so don’t be afraid to display your automated pleasure machines front and center and have a conversation with shoppers not only about their pleasure needs but also their storage and home/dungeon layout.
It’s also important to remember that in addition to stigma, you may also have to grapple with the assumption that all sex machines have a premium price tag. Your customers may be surprised to learn that some of the smaller machines are incredibly affordable, and with more innovation happening every year, automated sex simulators are becoming more intricate and more budget-friendly. With help from educated store staff and a variety of inventory, most buyers can find a unit that will fit their budget and lifestyle, pumping up your sex machine sales numbers with measurable results.
Rebecca Weinberg is the president of XR Brands.
