Friday 9 September 2011

My article written for Forster PR's internal online magazine on the subject of Holland and Barrett selling Sex Toys

Holland and Barrett to stock sex toys? Some may be against it, particularly, should he be alive today, the original founder of the store, Samuel Ryder, a golf enthusiast, also a committed Christian. Others may see the move as a 'hole in one'.

This range of 'intimate massagers' by a company called Emotional Bliss, may soon be on sale in a store near you. "But where would they be slotted in?" I hear you cry! In my opinion, the Rescue Remedy should be located immediately after the display, to calm the unsuspecting Granny when she accidentally comes upon the range. But seriously? In the family health section? So busy mums can grab a bit of fun whilst stocking up on Haliborange? Or, as the massagers emit heat, perhaps near the glucosamine, cod liver oil and Deep Heat, to help relieve hard, stiff areas?

And to whom are these 'sexual wellbeing' items aimed at? The Emotional Bliss website sells a range of books about sex and intimacy, which seem to be directed towards couples, sex toy novices, and the more 'senior' citizen, who's top drawer in the bedroom only contains reading glasses and Vick's Vaporub. Although, due to the heat-emitting qualities of the massagers, they may appeal even more to older people, as they could save on their heating bills whilst warming their cockles. Something for the government to consider in the future when issuing heating allowances. Smiles on faces for sure!

Another question that comes to mind is whether Kim Wilde will still be at the forefront of the advertising campaign? Will she still be smiling inanely at the camera, whilst holding a massager, saying, "Get down to Holland and Barrett now, and get your hands on a Womolia!"

The products have received rave reviews from many publications and TV appearances, including, The Alan Titchmarsh Show. So, with Kim and her Celebrity Gardener status, and Alan with his perpetually dirty fingernails, the customer base may be further increased to include horticulturalists, who may or may not be immersed in bush-trimming...

Another appeal of the massagers is that old chestnut, the recession. According to Holland and Barrett, we are spending more time at home as we can longer afford to go out. So, too skint to be 'on it', more likely now to 'get on it'. The cynical amongst you might see this as a cunning device to shut women up from moaning about money.

Still, on the whole, I believe this new line of products is a positive step. Sex is a very important part of the general well-being, as is intimacy and trust., and has perhaps been a taboo for too long. This venture may help to remove the stigma attached to sex toys.

I am of the inclination that this move will prove a success. I only hope that Holland and Barrett stock plenty of batteries!

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