Starting an Okrika business is a smart move for many people, especially because you don’t need millions to begin. But just like any business, it has its own challenges. Before you jump in, it’s important to know the disadvantages so you can prepare ahead.
Let’s talk about some of the downsides that most people don’t always mention.
1. You Can’t Always Tell What’s Inside a Bale
One of the biggest risks with the Okrika business is that you don’t know what’s inside a bale until you open it. You might pay for a “first grade” bale expecting clean and quality clothes, only to find out most of the items are torn, stained, or old-fashioned.
What this means:
You might lose money if you buy a bad bale. Even if some clothes are good, you’ll need to work hard to sell the rest at cheaper prices just to recover your capital.
2. Some Customers Look Down on Okrika
Let’s be honest. Some Nigerians still have the mindset that Okrika is for “poor people.” They might not want to wear second-hand clothes even if they look brand new.
What this means:
You have to be patient when selling and also know how to convince people that Okrika clothes can be classy, trendy, and affordable.
3. Sorting and Cleaning Takes Time
When you get your clothes, especially if you buy in bulk or a bale, you’ll need to sort them (separate the good ones from the bad), wash some, and maybe even iron or patch a few.
What this means:
It takes time, effort, and sometimes money before you can start selling. If you’re doing it alone, it can be tiring.
4. Competition Is High
A lot of people are now into the Okrika business. Go to any market or even online and you’ll see many sellers, sometimes even selling the same kind of clothes.
What this means:
You’ll need to be creative to stand out. Better pictures, good customer service, small discounts, or even free delivery can help you get loyal customers.
5. Prices Are Not Always Stable
The cost of buying bales or selected clothes can change at any time. The dollar rate, cost of importation, and even market demand can affect the price.
What this means:
You might buy a bale for ₦150,000 this month and be told it’s ₦200,000 next month. This makes planning a bit difficult.
6. Some Customers May Waste Your Time
If you’re selling online, you’ll meet people who will chat with you from morning till night, ask for pictures, bargain heavily, and still not buy.
What this means:
You’ll need to learn how to identify serious buyers and manage your time well so you don’t get discouraged.
7. No Guarantee of Quick Sales
Even if you have good clothes, it doesn’t mean they’ll sell immediately. Sometimes, people just don’t have money or it’s not the right season (e.g., trying to sell sweaters during hot season).
What this means:
You may have stock sitting at home or in your shop for a while before you start seeing serious profit.
8. Storage Can Be a Problem
If you don’t have a proper place to store your clothes, they can get dusty, moldy, or even get damaged by rats or water.
What this means:
You’ll need to keep your stock in a clean, dry place. If you don’t have a shop yet, at least use proper containers or bags at home.
Final Thoughts
The Okrika business is a great way to earn money, but it’s not as “easy” as some people make it look. It comes with risks and stress, just like every business. But the good part is—once you understand the challenges and prepare for them, it becomes easier to grow.
So, before you start, think carefully, start small if needed, and always learn from others who are already in the game.