The former "Source Adult Video" has long been a popular choice for purchasing and renting adult films in Calgary and 33 other locations across Western Canada. However, their name amendment to Adult Source was followed by an alteration to what the company offers. GayCalgary.com spoke with Arlie Penny, the store manager at Adult Source’s 17th Avenue location, about how his store has changed since it originally opened 12 years ago.

"When I took over the store two years ago there was virtually nothing in stock for the gay community. I started pushing to bring it in and it keeps picking up. I’d say about 30% of our clients purchase or rent gay material," he said. They have worked hard to establish themselves as a classy business. "The company has spent thousand of dollars to renovate and make it a more attractive place, as opposed to the stereotype of the ‘dirty little porn store.’ Our staff is knowledgeable on the videos and toys and other stock. Our goal is to have more couples, gay and straight, visiting the establishment together and seeing what we have to offer."

It not only helps make the buying experience more pleasurable, but also more comfortable. For someone not out of the closet or curious about gay video, it allows some degree of secrecy.

"People [that are] curious or not out of the closet...won’t be seen going into a specifically gay store, they can wander around and casually grab a gay adult movie without it being obvious," he said. "Also, because we are a chain, we can buy product in bulk and that lets us provide a lower price. We try to meet our customers needs by offering them alternatives – if we don’t have what they are looking for, I am always willing to refer them to other businesses, and have had referrals in turn from them. I don’t feel like we compete with each other."

Adult Source has also started becoming more involved in the community, and Penny invites organizations to see how they can benefit.

"I am part of the ISCCA and we have given to that organization. Charities looking for donations or to enquire about how we can assist them just have to come in and ask."

Like the name states, the store has now become a source for a number of forms of adult entertainment. In addition to the huge Video and DVD selection, they offer magazines, an enormous assortment of toys including vibrators and more unique items, clothes, shoes, and adult board games. If a customer can’t find what they are looking for, Adult Source will do its best to order it. If you are looking for a way to spice up your life, go to the source.

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Contributor Jason Clevett |

LoCalgary | cale

Topic Adult Source |