What is Net Profit Margin?

Net profit margin is the percentage of revenue that becomes profit after every cost: COGS, operating expenses, interest and tax.

A real Kenyan example

A pharmacy bills KES 1.2M/month. After all expenses it keeps KES 144,000. Net margin = 12%.

Formula

Net margin % = Net profit ÷ Revenue × 100

Why it matters

Net margin is the truth-teller of the P&L. It is what actually goes into the owner’s pocket or back into growth.

How Veira helps

Veira tracks every revenue line and every expense category, so net margin is always current, not a quarterly accountant surprise.

FAQs

What is a healthy net margin?
5-10% for retail and restaurants; 15-25% for professional services; 25%+ for software.
Is net margin the same as profit?
Profit is a shillings number; margin is profit expressed as a percentage of revenue.
Why might it be negative?
Operating losses, one-off costs, or growth-stage spending. Negative for 3+ months is a serious warning.
Should I price for net margin?
No, price for gross margin and control operating costs to hit a target net margin.
How does Veira help?
Live P&L per branch and category; alerts when net margin slips below a target.

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