Reverse Markup Calculator
Find the list price you need to set so that after offering a discount, you still keep your target profit margin. Solve the discount-vs-margin puzzle.
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Result
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Formula
How it works: First find the minimum sale price to maintain your target margin: Sale Price = Cost / (1 − Margin%). Then find the list price before discount: List Price = Sale Price / (1 − Discount%).
Worked Example
Understanding Reverse Markup Pricing
Reverse markup pricing is a strategic approach businesses use to determine the initial list price of a product when they plan to offer a discount but still need to achieve a specific profit margin. Instead of simply adding a markup to the cost, this method works backward from your desired profitability and a planned markdown.\n\nIt is particularly vital for e-commerce stores, retailers, and service providers who frequently run sales, promotions, or offer coupons. Without reverse markup, businesses risk setting an initial price too low, leading to insufficient profits after discounts are applied, or too high, making their discounts seem less appealing.\n\nThe process involves first calculating the minimum sale price required to meet your target margin based on the product's cost. Once that internal sale price is established, you then calculate the higher list price that, when discounted by your planned percentage, will bring it down precisely to that minimum sale price. This ensures that your promotional pricing remains attractive to customers while safeguarding your financial goals.
- Essential for accurately pricing products during sales or promotional periods.
- Helps businesses set an original price that absorbs planned discounts without sacrificing profit goals.
- Ensures that your target profit margin is met after a customer applies a discount.
- Ideal for retailers, online stores, and product managers strategizing their pricing for promotions.
Mastering reverse markup pricing is key to smart business strategy. Use our Reverse Markup Calculator to quickly and accurately determine your ideal list prices and ensure profitable promotions every time.
You can also calculate changes using our Profit Margin Calculator, Discount Calculator or E-commerce Profit Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between margin and markup?
Margin is profit as a % of selling price. Markup is profit as a % of cost. A 50% markup = 33% margin. A 50% margin = 100% markup. They are related but not the same.
How do I price for a 20% off sale?
Enter your cost, your desired margin AFTER the discount, and 20% as the discount. The calculator gives you the list price that protects your margin even after the sale.
Why not just add cost + margin?
Adding cost + desired margin ignores the discount. If you add 30% to $20 ($26) then discount 20% ($20.80), your margin drops to just 4%. This tool prevents that mistake.
Can I embed this Reverse Markup Calculator on my website?
Yes. Click the "Embed" button at the top of this page to customize the size, colors, and theme, then copy the iframe code. Paste it into any HTML page, WordPress site, or CMS. It is completely free, requires no signup, and works on all devices. You can also visit our embed guide at calculory.com/services/embed-calculators for more details.
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