NAijassador has moved its train to Osogbo City, the capital of Osun State, where we had the privilege of meeting Mrs. Akinrotoye Lucia, a 28-year-old CEO of Lu’s Fabrics.
Mrs. Akinrotoye Lucia’s journey as a fabric seller began in her childhood, and she is a true testament to the adage that states, “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.”
A Childhood Passion
“I started selling fabrics at 5, helping my mother in the shop,” Mrs. Lucia recalls.
She describes this early experience as both fun and educational. Helping her mother meant learning how to measure clothes for customers and even balancing accounts at the end of each day. These invaluable lessons laid the foundation for her future success.
Combining Passion with Education
As she grew older, Mrs. Lucia’s passion for fabric sales continued to burn brightly. This passion guided her to pursue a course in accounting at the Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State.
“I started the brand Lu’s Fabrics while in school, and I continued with my studies. I kept ordering my merchandise from Aba and China and sold them to my fellow students.”
Gradually, her business began to flourish, even as she juggled her academic pursuits. It was a slow but steady climb, and her hard work and determination paid off when she graduated in November 2019. Mrs. Lucia paused her business briefly while she served in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The Business Flourishes in Osogbo
Upon her return from NYSC, Mrs. Lucia wasted no time in reigniting her entrepreneurial spirit. In February 2021, Lu’s Fabrics was officially launched in Osogbo, and what started as a humble venture with just 700,000 Naira had grown into a multimillion-Naira enterprise.
Skills and Tips for Aspiring Fabric Sellers
When asked about the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the fabric business, Mrs. Lucia offered valuable insights:
Knowledge of Cutting and Measurement: Understanding how to measure and cut fabrics accurately is essential.
Customer Relations: Building and maintaining strong relationships with customers is crucial for long-term success.
Negotiation and Importing Skills: Knowing how to efficiently negotiate with suppliers and import goods is vital for profitability.
Accounting Proficiency: Keeping meticulous records of financial transactions is a must to ensure the business’s financial health.
Flexibility: Being adaptable and responsive to customers’ needs and preferences is key in the dynamic world of fabric sales.
The Secret to Successful Business
Mrs. Akinrotoye Lucia attributes her success to her continuous learning and the relationships she has cultivated with her customers. She firmly believes that a happy customer will always return and, more often than not, bring along another customer.
In conclusion, Mrs. Akinrotoye Lucia’s inspiring journey from a childhood helper in her mother’s fabric shop to a successful businesswoman in Osogbo City is a testament to the power of passion, education, and dedication. Her story serves as a source of motivation for anyone looking to embark on a similar entrepreneurial path.
We hope you’ve learned a thing or two from this remarkable story. Feel free to share your thoughts and comments below, and let us know what aspects of Mrs. Lucia’s journey have inspired you the most.
