Novelty trendsetter Good Vibrations and wholesale distribution giant General Video of America (GVA-TWN) merged on Oct. 6, 2007, in a deal expected to help Good Vibrations expand with more retail stores, enter new markets and expand current markets, specifically the video category.
According to Joel Kaminsky, chief operating officer of GVA-TWN, the distributor discovered last summer that an acquisition was possible after receiving a letter in which Good Vibrations announced investment opportunities.
In September, Kaminsky called the merger a "perfect fit." Three months after the deal became final, AVN Novelty Business caught up with executives from both companies for an update.
"The fit has been even better than expected," Kaminsky said. "Both Good Vibrations and GVA-TWN executive staffs have spent considerable time visiting each other's facilities, getting to know staff, discussing growth and eliminating the possibility of duplicating efforts in operations and purchasing procedures."
Rondee Kamins, CEO of GVA-TWN, said the company has beefed up its inventory and taken huge strides toward taking care of all back orders.
"I have ensured my entire team is available and accessible to make this transition as seamless as possible," she said. "I'm excited about the possibilities and the opportunities that lie in front of us. As a woman buying a women-centric, adult-oriented operation, I feel I have a lot to offer, going forward and preserving the brand's focus."
Jonathan Plotzker, Good Vibrations' senior director of merchandising and e-commerce, said the companies have much to learn from each other.
"With the combined strength of our two companies, we can better work with our existing vendors, as well as open up opportunities for each other," he said. "GVA stores have already begun adding some of the toys that Good Vibrations carries, and Good Vibes is in the midst of expanding our assortment, specifically in the video category."
Plotzker said Good Vibrations will continue the sex-positive mission it has held onto since its inception more than 30 years ago.
"We will continue to reach out toward the communities in which we open new stores, furthering our educational mission, as well as adding value to our combined company," he said.
