Make GmbH is more than just a lube manufacturer
By Nate Johnson
Volker Hoffman and Michael Bogatzki knew when they started their company, Make GmbH, back in 2001, that the last thing the world needed was another mediocre lubricant. So they went beyond the call of duty and formulated a unique lubricant that is both water- and silicone-based. The result is their original formula LUBExxx Bodyglide, a condom-safe, skin-friendly lubricant that's water soluble so it doesn't stain linens or clothing.
In the six years since their inception, Make GmbH has grown from having two employees to eight full-time staffers, along with ten freelancers who now sell their products worldwide. They've overcome obstacles in the market-such as copy cats and market saturation-by never settling for less when it comes to product quality.
"Our company philosophy is to sell high-class, quality products that are not expensive and are not dangerous for the user," explains Hoffman. "We have respect for every individual and an ear for everything, because we like to learn and to get better and better."
Although the LUBExxx Original Bodyglide is still their biggest seller, Make GmbH have expanded their line to include LUBExxx Toyglide (for use with sex toys and massage devices) as well as two anal relaxer sprays-Apronal (for women) and Mr. Ease (for men). According to Bogatzki and Hoffman, Mr. Ease is on its way to reaching the turnover numbers of their Original Bodyglide.
Hoffman further explains why the spray has become so popular. "The uniqueness of Mr. Ease is that it is the only anal spray product in the world that includes no anesthetics and no water, just selected herbs and a spreading agent to bring the effect of the herbs directly into the skin at the point of the body where you like to have the effect of relaxing."
The duo has also used tradeshow presence all over the world as a platform to talk with partners as well as competitors, thus building a reputation for quality and care. Additionally, they support all distribution partners with educational materials, such as flyers and handouts. They also have product samples and promotional materials available, like attention-grabbing counter displays and large roll-up displays for retailers.
Hoffman attributes LUBExxx/Mr. Ease's success to their mission to fulfill their promise to distributors, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers. "A lot of consumers don't know what they are using, or if the products are good or might damage their body," he explains. "We are selling products that are quality-tested, and not by ourselves, but by official testing institutes. All our products are 100 percent condom-safe and tested by professionals before we bring them to the market. We care about our consumer and we do a lot to inform them and provide sexual education."
Make GmbH shows no signs of slowing down. "We want to be one of the world-wide leading companies in the sexual healthcare market," explains Bogatzki. "All of our ingredients meet high-quality cosmetic-industry standards. Our products are tested with best results in fields of dermatologic, condom safety and usability. The look and feel is very cosmetic and stylish, allowing the consumer to buy our products easily-and no one will be shocked at home if they see them in the bathroom or bedroom."
While they could not reveal details on product specifics, both Hoffman and Bogatzki assured ANB magazine that more products are on the horizon for 2007 and beyond.
