EDMONTON - Retailers say the NHL lockout has led to a boost in sales of sex toys and lingerie among couples.

“We’d be gearing up for (NHL hockey) now but there’s nothing so I guess we need to find some better ways to spend our time!” said Vinay Morker, owner of the Hush Lingerie and More boutique, while at Edmonton’s Taboo Naughty But Nice Sex Show Saturday.

Morker said his south Edmonton location saw a 15% jump in sales in October, and although the absence of Oilers action has been killing the longtime fan, it could also be the reason more couples have been browsing his wares at the show.

“When Oilers fans, mostly guys, have to break their routine of seeing every game, they have more time,” Morker said. “And there’s nothing better than spending it with your spouse or girlfriend.”

Morker said Hush’s main clientele is couples looking to “expand their horizons” and he’s seen a 15% jump in the sales of their sex toys, lingerie, games and sexual guides, like The Kama Sutra, since October.

Hal Roseberg, owner of Tease Adult Boutique in Edmonton, said he saw a similar leap in business this year, which he usually attributes to an influx of cold weather.

“I suppose that’s one of the other reasons it’s as busy as it is, there’s no hockey,” Roseberg said.

Roseberg said it’s Tease’s second year at the show, and he believes it’s a great way for couples to spend the weekend.

“You see stuff here you’ll never see anywhere else,” he said with a smile.