Metro Global Media, Inc.metroglobal.com announced the launch of a new concept in adult retailing, Amazing Superstores. The first franchised location is scheduled to open in Providence, Rhode Island today.
The Amazing Superstores will define a new state-of-the-art concept for adult retail stores. In addition to carrying vast selection of adult videos, DVD's, novelties and lingerie, it boasts a large collection of sophisticated adult products. In response to Internet research that indicates 40% of online adult sales are from women, the Amazing Superstores interior is designed to be more shopper friendly, with added appeal for women and couples. Custom fixtures, captivating colors and an integrated lighting and floor plan developed by top retail design specialists will distinguish the Amazing Superstores from all other retail stores.
After the initial launch, Metro Global Media, through its franchise division, plans to offer current franchise owners the opportunity to convert their existing store into this uniqure retailing format. Following the conversion, Metro plans to aggressively expand the number of franchise locations available on a national level through acquisition and franchise sales. The company expects to award a minimum of seven franchises during the next 12 months, additing to the five existing sites.
Besides creating franchise fees, each franchise sold is expected to generate $750,000 to $1,000,000 annually in additional revenue through its exclusive distribution program.
The Amazing Superstore in Providence will celebrate its launch with a Grand Opening Week, June 14-20, 1999, featuring give-aways and personal appearances by adult stars. More than $10,000 in prizes will be given away during the week, including DVD players, gift certificates, hats, T shirts and videos. All customers will receive a free promotional video from Metro, Inc., Metro Global's entertainment division, featuring highlights from the company's most popular movie titles.
Some of the biggest names in the adult entertainment business will appear at the store during the Grand Opening to sign autographs and pose for photos with fans. A special invitation-only reception will be held Friday evening June 18 for media, VIPs and friends.
"We are very excited to get the public's reaction to our new store concept. It's about providing quality products in an environment that is comfortable for the consumer," said Todd Reid, Merchandising Manager for Metro. "Metro believes that the Amazing Superstores will revolutionize the adult retail experience," Reid added.
Mr. "Soundbite," Scott Stein of < .smspromotions, resigns from his part-time promotions gig with Metro but will continue handling the 2nd Annual XXX-Treme Adults-only vacation in Mexico. Metro is one of the sponsors.
Stein: "It was silly. I was going in there one-day a week. How much could I get done? Now is the time to try to make my company work. I'm going to do it. It's scary. I've got a couple of new sponsors [for the vacation]. I spoke to the Howard Stern people yesterday. They're going to come up with the exact dates when they're going to have the new contest. I've got that promotion happening. LA Exotics is franchised and around the world. There's a New York Exotics. I'm working with them. They're putting my trip up on their website. It's also going in other cities. I've got some things out there that's going to generate some traffic.
Forbes Magazine is profiling Stein in one of its June issues.
Stein: "I originally met them at the Erotica New York show. I'm having a booth at Erotica L.A. I'll have a booth in the Lifetyle Convention in Reno. I just got involved with the Bunny Ranch. They're going to be kicking in for everyone who signs up for the trip, gift certificates redeemable at their brothel. Videomail, a subsidiary of Adam & Eve, is also one of my new sponsors. California Exotic Novelties just re-signed. And I'm still single."
