The quick answer to the question, “Can I make money on Takealot?” if you’re based in South Africa, is that you can. It’s not a get-rich-quick plan, though, like any marketplace. It requires planning, perseverance, and some initial work. Takealot provides a strong platform for generating online revenue, regardless of whether you are a small business owner, side hustler, or someone just experimenting with e-commerce.
What is Takealot?
Takealot is South Africa’s largest online retailer, similar to Amazon in the U.S. It’s a trusted platform that customers know and love, which means the traffic is already there — you just need to tap into it.
How Do People Make Money on Takealot?
1. Become a Takealot Seller
This is the most direct way to make money. You list your products on the Takealot Marketplace, and when people buy, you earn. Takealot handles the payment and delivery, while you focus on managing your stock and listings.
Here’s how to get started:
- Sign up as a Takealot seller (called a Marketplace Seller).
- Send your inventory to their warehouse.
- Set your prices and product details.
- Start selling!
2. Retail Arbitrage
Buy low, sell high. Some sellers source discounted products from other retailers (like Makro, Game, or even overseas) and resell them on Takealot at a profit. This requires research and good timing but can be very profitable.
3. Private Label Products
This is when you create your own brand — maybe it’s phone accessories, kitchenware, or fitness gear. You find a manufacturer (locally or through platforms like Alibaba), brand the products, and list them on Takealot.
Why this works:
- Higher profit margins
- You control the branding
- Less competition (if done right)
4. Dropshipping (Sort of)
Takealot doesn’t support traditional dropshipping, but some people work around this by holding minimal inventory and listing a limited range of fast-moving items. It’s riskier, but some find success with it.
How Much Can You Earn?
It varies. Some make a few hundred rand a month, others bring in six figures or more. Your earnings depend on:
- Product demand
- Competition
- Pricing strategy
- Marketing and SEO
- Inventory management
Pros of Selling on Takealot
* Massive customer base
* Logistics and delivery are handled for you
* Trust factor – people already use and trust Takealot
* Simple seller dashboard
Cons to Watch Out For
* Seller fees can eat into your profits
*Competition is fierce in some categories
*Returns and refunds policies favor customers
*Takealot controls your storefront – no branding freedom
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Yes — if you treat it like a real business. Takealot is not a side hustle you can “set and forget.” But if you’re willing to learn the ropes, source the right products, and optimize your listings, it can become a steady income stream — or even grow into a full-time business.