Many celebrities, after achieving fame, attempt to leverage their popularity to launch businesses as an additional income stream. This trend has persisted in the entertainment industry for years. Unfortunately, not all celebrity-owned businesses thrive in the competitive market.
Numerous ventures fail to reach even their first million, with some never progressing beyond the launch phase. Here are notable Ghanaian personalities whose business efforts faltered despite initial excitement:
- Sark Collection by Sarkodie
In April 2013, renowned rapper Sarkodie launched his clothing line, Sark by Yas, in collaboration with designer Yas. Featuring caps, belts, t-shirts, and sneakers, the line garnered enthusiasm from celebrities like Tiwa Savage and David Jay. However, it quietly disappeared from public attention and retail stores in the following years. - Aphrodisiac Night Club by Confidence Haugen
Media personality Confidence Haugen was known for owning Aphrodisiac Night Club in Accra, a popular venue for over a decade. The club closed in 2015 due to challenges, including Ghana’s power crisis, marking the end of a significant nightlife era. - Micci Belino by Mzbel
Singer Mzbel ventured into fashion in 2011 with her brand Micci Belino. Although it launched in 2013 with a boutique in Sakaman, the brand quickly faded, and neither the shop nor the label remains active today. - Fella Makafui’s Wine Shop
Actress Fella Makafui launched a wine shop, but the venture was deemed unsuccessful and closed. She admitted to lacking passion for the business and consumed some of the remaining stock. Fella now focuses on her successful makeup brand and hints at new projects. - John Dumelo’s J.Melo Fashion Label
Actor John Dumelo launched his fashion brand J.Melo in 2018 to enhance his personal style. Unfortunately, the brand did not succeed. He had previously diversified into other ventures, maintaining focus on more promising agricultural investments after one of his businesses failed. - Roc.Doms Condoms by Reggie Rockstone
Hiplife pioneer Reggie Rockstone introduced Roc.Doms condoms in 2013. Despite the novelty and connection to his musical persona, the product struggled to find lasting success.
ICYMI: Oguaa Fetu Afahye: Ban on Noise-Making, Fishing & Funerals begins August 5
A Harsh Reality
The reality is that many celebrity-backed startups fail, especially in areas where brand recognition does not equate to operational success or market stability. In Ghana, these examples highlight that success in entertainment does not guarantee business success.
However, several Ghanaian stars have built flourishing ventures beyond the spotlight, and their stories of sustainable growth deserve attention. We will feature those inspiring cases in a follow-up article.
SOURCE: PULSE GHANA
