Aidah at her shop in Equatorial Mall on Bombo Road where she sells make up. She says she shops her products from Sweden and France. PHOTO by Isaac Ssejjombwe
Focus: Two years ago, Aidah Chrystals never expected her business to be where it is now but because of hard work and her loyal clients, her shop is one of the most frequented at Equatorial Shopping Mall.
What is the name of your business?
I call it Make-up Store.
Why did you name it so?
Because I sell cosmetics that are used to beautify people. So I wanted a name that would rhyme well with what I do.
What do you sell in this shop?
We sell cosmetics, jewellery, ladies shoes and hand bags.
When did you start this business and how much did you invest in it?
It is now two years since I opened it and my investment was Shs6m.
How much do you sell your products?
Cosmetics cost between Shs20,000 and Shs50,000, Jewellery from Shs10,000 upwards, Shoe prices depend on the types; flat shoes cost Shs40,000, corporate shoes (office) cost Shs50,000, party shoes go for Shs70,000, high heels and boots cost between Shs80,000 and Shs100,000 and bags cost Shs50,000.
Why did you go for this kind of business?
I love cosmetics and I was targeting the available market.
What are some of the challenges you face doing this kind of business?
The products I deal in are new on the African market, so clients are not yet used to them. People are used to cheap Chinese products and adjusting to new products is hard for them.
What is your target market?
My products are for everyone. From young corporates, students and people in the entertainment industry. I target the young, middle age and older clients.
Where do you get these products from?
I shop them from Sweden and France.
Do you travel to get them?
Sometimes I do and sometimes I order for them. But in most cases, I send people to get them for me.
Where is your business located?
Equatorial Mall, Level 2, Shop 272.
