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  As a small business owner in Nigeria, one of the biggest struggles you’ll face is setting the right price for your products or services. Consumers are price-sensitive because of Nigeria’s economic situation. If you set your prices too high, you risk losing customers to competitors. If you set them too low, you may struggle to cover costs and make a profit. Pricing isn’t just about guessing or copying what others are doing; it requires a strategy that considers your costs, competitors, and the value you offer. You need to know how to set profitable prices.
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In this article, you’ll learn how to set profitable prices that attract customers while ensuring your business remains sustainable.

1. Understand Your Costs

The first thing to do before deciding on a price for your product or service is to know how much it costs to produce your product or offer your service. There are two main types of costs to consider:
  • Fixed Costs: These are expenses that do not change regardless of how many products you sell. Examples include rent, salaries, and business registration fees.
  • Variable Costs: These fluctuate depending on production. For instance, if you own a baking business, your variable costs include flour, sugar, and packaging.
To determine a sustainable price, ensure your selling price covers both fixed and variable costs while leaving room for profit.

2. Research Your Competitors

Your competitors’ prices can give you an idea of what customers are willing to pay. Conduct market research by:
  • Checking their websites and social media pages for listed prices.
  • Visiting physical stores to compare prices.
  • Asking potential customers how much they currently pay for similar products or services.
However, don’t just copy competitors blindly. Consider the unique value you offer. If your product has better quality, customer service, or extra benefits, your pricing should reflect that. For market research tips, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) provides valuable insights: NEPC Market Research Guide.

3. Consider the Value You Offer

Customers don’t just pay for products; they pay for the value those products provide. If you can communicate why your product is better, you can charge higher than most of your competitors. For example, if you sell skincare products made with organic ingredients, your customers might be willing to pay more than they would for a regular store-bought brand. Likewise, if you offer a faster delivery service or better customer support, you can justify a higher price. This is called value-based pricing.
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4. Choose the Right Pricing Strategy

Different pricing strategies work for different businesses. Here are some to consider:
  • Cost-Plus Pricing: This involves adding a markup to your total cost. For example, if it costs ₦5,000 to produce a product and you want a 30% profit, you sell it for ₦6,500 (₦5,000 + 30%).
  • Value-Based Pricing: If customers perceive your product as high quality, you can set a price based on the value it offers rather than just the cost.
  • Penetration Pricing: If you’re new to the market, you can start with lower prices to attract customers, then gradually increase as you gain recognition.
  • Premium Pricing: This works if your brand is positioned as high-end or luxury. Apple, for example, uses premium pricing for its products worldwide.

5. Factor in Nigerian Economic Realities

The Nigerian business environment is unique, and pricing must account for inflation, fuel price, fluctuating exchange rates, and inconsistent electricity supply. For instance, inflation in Nigeria was 28.92% as of December 2023 and rose to over 35% in 2024, meaning the cost of goods and services is constantly rising. If you don’t adjust your prices periodically, you may end up running at a loss.

6. Test and Adjust Your Prices

Your first price isn’t always your final price. Monitor how customers react and make adjustments where necessary. If sales drop after a price increase, consider whether your value proposition justifies the change. If you consistently sell out, you might be under-pricing. Use customer feedback, sales data, and profit margins to tweak your pricing strategy.
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Concluding Thoughts

Setting the right price for your products or services is crucial to running a successful small business in Nigeria. By following the guide on how to set profitable prices, you can ensure your business remains profitable. Don’t be afraid to test and adjust your prices based on market conditions.
Did you find this article useful? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com

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This article was first published on 27th March 2025
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victor-ifegwu-mbonu

Ifegwu-Mbonu Victor is a Personal Growth and Leadership Trainer who provides training and coaching to individuals and organizations.


Comments (5)

5 thoughts on “How to Set Profitable Prices for Your Products and Services as a Small Business Owner”


  • Very informative,whenI came across this article How to Set Profitable Prices for Your Products and Services as a Small Business Owner’ and it got me thinking about my own vintage clothing business. I’d love to hear from experienced sellers: how do you price your vintage items?What are some key factors to consider, and are there any pricing mistakes I should avoid? Share your expertise and help me optimize my pricing strategy!


  • To price vintage clothing wholesale, calculate the total cost (purchase, shipping, taxes), set a suitable profit margin, and monitor competitors’ prices. Consider item rarity and quality. Avoid random pricing, offer diverse options, and regularly review prices to ensure profitability


  • It is nice to discuss vintage clothing prices. The price depends on how rare and well-kept an item is. It is also smart to check what others are selling similar items for to set a fair price. Buying in bulk from good suppliers can help save money and increase profits. I have also found bulk vintage clothing suppliers that are very helpful for this.


  • Pricing vintage clothing can be tricky but there are a few key things to consider. Research similar items to see what they sell for and factor in the brand and condition of each piece. A good strategy is to test different prices and adjust based on demand and customer feedback.


  • This website, bulk vintage clothing, is your perfect destination if you’re looking for unique and sustainable fashion at competitive prices. It offers a wide selection of wholesale vintage clothing, making it a great choice for store owners and fashion enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality classic pieces. Browse now and discover a true treasure in the world of second-hand fashion

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