Martin Tucker, founder of Topco Sales, has passed away, according to industry friends. Tucker was recognized for his contributions to the adult toy industry, including the development of brands such as Cyberskin and Penthouse Toys.
Martin Tucker's Legacy in the Pleasure Industry
Martin Tucker founded Topco Sales in 1972. The company became one of the largest sex toy manufacturers in the industry. Tucker's background in aerospace technology and metallurgical engineering allowed him to introduce innovative technology and sophisticated materials to the business. Topco Sales developed brands including Cyberskin, Penthouse Toys, UltraZone, TwerkingButt, and Virtual Sex.
In 2002, Tucker sold Topco Sales. The following year, in 2003, he launched a new company named MYWORLD.
At the 2016 XBIZ Awards, Tucker received the Industry Pioneer Award. At that time, he thanked his colleagues for acknowledging his contributions and accomplishments. He reflected on his time with Topco Sales, stating, “The adult toy industry has been, and still is, ‘an exciting ride’ for me. I have many fond memories when I was growing and operating Topco Sales, which I began in 1972 and later sold in 2002.”
Ron Braverman, President and CEO of Doc Johnson, credited Tucker as “a giant in helping start the modern-day health and wellness marketplace.” Braverman described Tucker as “very innovative and creative — not only in product, but also how to present it to retail.” He also noted, “He was a one-of-a-kind person. I not only knew Marty in business, but also in our personal lives. He was always a true family man. In business, he was a man of his word.”
Elliot Schwartz, President of Nasstoys, referred to Tucker as “a genuine legend” and “the professor.” Schwartz stated that Tucker “invented many of the materials we use today…jelly, Cyberskin, etc.” Schwartz recalled an instance where Tucker provided him with a formula to calculate a true 40% markup, adding, “We had many fun times tog.”
Other Industry Figures
The pleasure products industry has also recently seen the passing of Nick Orlandino, former Pipedream Products CEO. Orlandino passed away on January 3, 2023, according to social media reports. Details regarding his death have not been revealed by his family.
Orlandino began his career in the adult and gift industry at age 15, unloading trucks for Forum Novelties in New York. He eventually advanced to general manager. In 1992, he moved to Los Angeles and joined Pipedream Products as vice president of sales and marketing. By 1994, he became a partner in the corporation and managed all day-to-day operations at Pipedream.
In 1996, Orlandino founded the Adult Novelty Manufacturers Expo (ANME), which was the industry’s first and largest business-to-business pleasure products trade show. ANME continues to connect vendors and adult retail buyers.
Orlandino was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Free Speech Coalition in 1999, serving as Treasurer for four years. His career as CEO of Pipedream Products led to his inclusion in the 2008/2009 Princeton Premier Registry, which lists accomplished business leaders and professionals.
In 2014, Orlandino received the Industry Pioneer Award at the XBIZ Awards, which recognized his career. He also received his eighth leadership award when he was named Free Speech Coalition's 2014 Man of the Year. This award honored his lifelong contributions to the adult industry and his 30 years of service.
After 35 years in the industry, Orlandino announced his retirement in 2018.
Key Facts
- Martin Tucker, founder of Topco Sales, has passed away.
- Topco Sales, founded in 1972, was a major sex toy manufacturer known for brands like Cyberskin and Penthouse Toys.
- Tucker sold Topco Sales in 2002 and launched MYWORLD in 2003.
- He received the Industry Pioneer Award at the 2016 XBIZ Awards.
- Industry figures like Ron Braverman and Elliot Schwartz acknowledged Tucker's innovation and contributions to the industry.
- Martin S. Tucker is listed on the Veterans Legacy Memorial website, with a resting place at Rock Island National Cemetery.