UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif.—Winners of the first-ever “O” Awards, which were held Tuesday as part of the AVN Novelty Expo 2009, were still basking in the glory on Wednesday, and in many cases proudly showing off their awards at their ANE booths.
“We are absolutely thrilled; it’s a real honor,” said Greg De Long of njoy, which took home the trophy for Outstanding Non-Powered Product for the Pure Wand. “It really kicks me in the ass, because we started this company with the idea that we would introduce some really good stainless steel products, and then move on, produce more items, push ourselves. That’s still the plan, and now that we’ve been recognized we need to move on that plan.”
Keith Caggiano of The Screaming O, which was honored for Outstanding Marketing for its in-store marketing kit, echoed De Long’s sentiments, adding that the staff at The Screaming O are grateful to be recognized by their peers.
“This industry comes up with some innovative designs, products, marketing ideas …” he said. “To be recognized with nominations and be in such good company, and then to be singled out for our in-store marketing kit, which we worked really hard on, is just great.”
Coyote Days, buyer for Good Vibrations, which earned the “O” Award for Outstanding Online Retailer, said company officials were surprised by their nomination, especially since they found themselves in such good company.
“Being recognized for all the hard work you do and the effort that you put into something really makes you feel good,” she said. “We never expected to win in that category. It is amazing to win.”
In all, a total of 14 “O” Awards were given out during Tuesday’s ceremony. For a complete recap of the winners, read the story at Business.AVN.com and view the AVN photo gallery.
