“Fifty Shades of Grey” arouses sex toy boom
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The erotic bestselling novel “Fifty Shades of Grey” was devoured across the world by millions, from British housewives to Guantanamo Bay inmates. Now manufacturers and retailers are hoping that its Valentine’s Day movie release will fuel a boom in sex toy and bondage accessory sales.
The books have been translated into 50 languages, and have sold more than 100 million copies worldwide, making it one of the fastest-selling book series ever. It’s perhaps so mainstream that US discount retail giant Target, which specialises in everyday items, is selling “Fifty Shades of Grey” lubricant, blindfolds and “love rings”.
British company Lovehoney worked closely with the author E L James to design official “Fifty Shades” sex toys in late 2012 and before the movie release have branched out into luxurious items. Lovehoney co-owner Neal Slateford credited the books and growing acceptance of sexual openness with causing “the adult sex toy industry to explode”.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which specific items are US discount retailer Target selling that are related to the novel?
Which specific items are US discount retailer Target selling that are related to the novel?
US discount retailer Target, which usually sells everyday items, is offering 'Fifty Shades of Grey' branded lubricant, blindfolds, and 'love rings' to its customers. These products are available following the novel's mainstream success.
Q.Which company designed official 'Fifty Shades' sex toys, and when did they start?
Which company designed official 'Fifty Shades' sex toys, and when did they start?
British company Lovehoney designed official 'Fifty Shades' sex toys in late 2012, working closely with the author E L James. They have since expanded into more luxurious items, particularly before the movie's release.
Q.What is credited with causing the adult sex toy industry to significantly grow?
What is credited with causing the adult sex toy industry to significantly grow?
Lovehoney co-owner Neal Slateford attributes the significant growth, or 'explosion,' of the adult sex toy industry to the 'Fifty Shades of Grey' books. He also credits the growing societal acceptance of sexual openness.
Q.How many copies has the 'Fifty Shades of Grey' book series sold globally?
How many copies has the 'Fifty Shades of Grey' book series sold globally?
The 'Fifty Shades of Grey' book series has sold over 100 million copies worldwide. This makes it one of the fastest-selling book series ever published, translated into 50 different languages globally.
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