COTR and its associated brands received three awards at the 2026 StorErotica Awards, which were presented on July 14 during the ANME Founders Show at the Burbank Marriott Hotel. The company was recognized as Boutique Brand of the Year, while Shon McLean was named Account Executive of the Year, and Together Vibes, a COTR brand, earned LGBTQIA+ Company of the Year.

COTR's Multiple Honors

COTR, its team, and its brands collectively secured three honors at the 2026 StorErotica Awards. The awards ceremony took place on July 14 at the Burbank Marriott Hotel during the ANME Founders Show.

COTR was recognized as Boutique Brand of the Year. This award acknowledges the company's focus on distinctive product concepts, approachable education, and retailer support. Alicia Sinclair, founder and CEO of COTR, stated that the win is a reflection of the people behind the company's work and expressed gratitude to retail and distribution partners.

Shon McLean, an Account Executive for COTR, received the Account Executive of the Year award. This honor recognizes her dedication to COTR’s customers and partners, as well as her product knowledge, responsiveness, and personal attention in her role. McLean expressed that building genuine relationships and assisting partners in finding products and resources are the best parts of her work. She also noted that the recognition belongs to the entire COTR team and its customers.

Together Vibes, one of COTR’s newer brands, was honored as LGBTQIA+ Company of the Year. This award acknowledges the brand's inclusive approach. Together Vibes was created to celebrate connection and help more people see themselves represented, featuring welcoming branding, accessible products, and a community-centered mission.

StorErotica Awards Event Details

The 2026 StorErotica Awards were presented on July 14 at the Burbank Marriott Hotel. The ceremony was part of the ANME Founders Show. The event, running from 6-8 p.m., brought together manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and industry leaders.

The evening commenced with a welcome reception that included drinks and hors d’oeuvres. This reception provided an opportunity for attendees to reconnect with colleagues, establish new partnerships, and relax after a day on the trade show floor. Alicia Sinclair-Rosen, COTR’s Founder and CEO, hosted the new Pink Carpet, where she interviewed arriving guests.

The awards presentation itself was described as a breezy and laid-back affair. Kim Faubel, COTR’s Sales Director, hosted the presentation. The StorErotica Awards are an annual recognition event for the adult retail industry, spotlighting products, people, and companies that contribute to the advancement of pleasure retail.

Kristofer Kay, SE Magazine Managing Editor, commented that the StorErotica Awards are one of the few occasions each year for the industry to pause and celebrate collective accomplishments. Kay noted that the business is built by innovators, risk-takers, and entrepreneurs, and that the individuals on the ballot represent some of the best among them.

Industry Context and Recognition

The awards received by COTR, Shon McLean, and Together Vibes highlight specific areas of focus within the adult industry. COTR's recognition as Boutique Brand of the Year underscores its emphasis on innovative product concepts, accessible education, and support for retailers. This aligns with a broader industry trend of brands focusing on distinctive offerings and customer engagement.

Shon McLean's award for Account Executive of the Year points to the importance of strong customer and partner relationships, product expertise, and responsive service in the trade. Her dedication to building genuine connections and assisting businesses with product and resource solutions was specifically cited.

The LGBTQIA+ Company of the Year award for Together Vibes reflects a growing industry focus on inclusivity and authentic representation. The brand's mission to celebrate connection and ensure broader representation through its branding and products is consistent with evolving market demands for diverse and welcoming offerings.

The StorErotica Awards serve as an annual platform for recognizing achievements across the adult retail sector. The event brings together various stakeholders, including manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, to acknowledge contributions to the pleasure retail market. The awards aim to celebrate the individuals and companies that are shaping the future of the industry.

Key Facts

  • COTR received three honors at the 2026 StorErotica Awards.
  • COTR was named Boutique Brand of the Year.
  • Shon McLean was awarded Account Executive of the Year.
  • Together Vibes, a COTR brand, was recognized as LGBTQIA+ Company of the Year.
  • The awards ceremony took place on July 14 during the ANME Founders Show at the Burbank Marriott Hotel.
  • Alicia Sinclair, COTR founder and CEO, hosted the Pink Carpet at the event.