Ever walked into an adult store and felt like you stumbled into a secret club for the enlightened? That’s the vibe Stefanie Neumann has been crafting for over a decade at TAF Distribution. As regional manager of eight Florida boutiques, she’s not just selling sex toys and lube—she’s revolutionizing how we think about pleasure. From gritty “sex shops” to polished sexual wellness centers, Neumann’s journey is a masterclass in grit, smarts, and heart.
From Clerk to Industry Trailblazer
Neumann didn’t plan to make adult retail her life. She started as a clerk at a store called Spice Rack (now Jack and Jill), just looking for a gig while studying accounting. But something clicked. The open-minded vibe, the chance to help people embrace their desires—it hooked her.
I found working with our customers extremely rewarding, and the open-mindedness and acceptance of those working in the industry refreshing.
– Stefanie Neumann
Fast-forward 12 years, and she’s running the show, overseeing Caliente and Jack and Jill stores from Miami to Tampa. Her secret sauce? A blend of sex education, killer customer service, and a knack for keeping her team fired up.
Redefining the Adult Store Experience
Gone are the days of seedy backrooms and awkward glances. Neumann’s stores are bright, welcoming hubs where pleasure meets education. She’s been pivotal in rebranding TAF’s chain, shifting the focus from quick sales to meaningful experiences. Think less “grab a dildo and go,” more “let’s find the perfect silicone vibe for your needs.”
Her approach is rooted in her training as a licensed sex educator. Whether it’s recommending a hypoallergenic lube or introducing vaginal dilators to a post-menopausal customer, Neumann ensures her staff are equipped to change lives. And they do—one interaction at a time.
Navigating a Diverse Clientele
Florida’s a wild mix of demographics, and Neumann’s stores reflect that. One location caters to the ultra-wealthy, another to blue-collar workers. How does she make it work? By obsessing over customer experience.
- Curating products to match local tastes—high-end toys for the elite, budget-friendly options for others.
- Training staff to read the room and offer personalized advice.
- Keeping stores spotless and inviting, an “escape” from the outside world.
Even during last year’s economic crunch, when wallets were tight, Neumann’s stores thrived. Why? Because she knows a clean store and a knowledgeable clerk can turn a one-time buyer into a loyal customer.
Keeping the Team Pumped
Managing eight stores isn’t just about stock and sales—it’s about people. Neumann’s got a knack for keeping her team motivated. She leans on SPIF programs (sales performance incentive funds), vendor training, and regular huddles to keep the energy high. Her staff aren’t just selling; they’re educating, empowered with the latest on silicone toys, safe lubes, and more.
It’s not just about the paycheck. Neumann fosters a culture where her team feels they’re making a difference. And when a clerk helps a customer find a toy that works for them? That’s a win worth celebrating.
Life-Changing Moments
Neumann’s proudest moments aren’t the sales numbers—they’re the human ones. Like the time she helped a customer ditch cheap, irritating lubes for a safe alternative. Or when she introduced a struggling client to vaginal dilators, opening up new possibilities for their sex life.
These aren’t just transactions; they’re transformations. Neumann’s stores are safe spaces where people can explore without judgment, guided by staff who know their stuff. It’s no wonder she can’t imagine working anywhere else.
What’s Next for Neumann?
After 12 years, Neumann’s still hungry for more. She’s eyeing new ways to push the sexual wellness angle, maybe even expanding her reach beyond Florida. With her track record, whatever she tackles next will likely set the industry buzzing.
For now, she’s content leading the charge at TAF, proving that adult retail can be more than just a business—it can be a movement. So next time you’re in a Caliente or Jack and Jill, know that Neumann’s fingerprints are all over that welcoming vibe. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll leave with more than a new toy—you’ll leave with a new perspective.
