Socialite Vera Sidika recently shut down her beauty and spa business in Nyali, Mombasa County, after a spell of losses.

Sources revealed that Vera’s business ceased operation early this year after multiple challenges that led to the resignation of employees.

“Vera said that the business was incurring losses as her primary focus was on her family in Nairobi rather than work. The business ceased operations about four months ago”. A source told Nairobi News.

The business was previously located at Western Heights, Westlands, but was moved to the coast in September 2022 after the mother of two relocated to Mombasa. At the time, she said she was rebranding to become bigger and better.

“I relocated to Mombasa from Nairobi and moved the business with me. Yes. I am rebranding, It’s bigger and better!”

The business, which employed over 50 people, consisted of several departments, including Veetox Herbal Detox, a salon, a massage area, and a hair salon.

Pallet Café: Nairobi restaurant that has employed deaf workers

She launched the business in June 2018, optimistic that it would be successful. However, the journey has been marked with multiple closures and reopening.

In a previous interview, Vera blamed multiple vacations for the fall of her business. She further said she invested in the business in a rush and didn’t take time to strategize.

”I had the idea like today, and in three weeks, I started a shop. It was such a rush I didn’t do enough research; I was just getting into the industry. I was traveling a lot, so I wasn’t there for the business.”

”Sometimes, I would sell everything, and because I was not there in the country, making new orders would take some time. I felt like it was wise for me to take a step back, strategize, and come back better,’’ she said.

Experts say that lack of research is the most common reason why start-up businesses fail. This means that before setting up a business, you need to conduct research into everything, including the existing market and current and future trends in your industry.

You also need to research on who your competitors are, who your target audience is, and what will motivate them to do business with you.