In small business marketing, standing out doesn’t require big budgets. Custom photo magnets are underrated yet powerful—they stick around (literally) on fridges or lockers, turning customers’ spaces into mini brand billboards. For entrepreneurs serving SMBs, a photo magnet making machine is a low-cost ticket to a high-impact service. Here’s how to leverage this niche.
Why SMBs Love Custom Magnets
Unlike flyers or business cards that get discarded, magnets solve a key problem: longevity. A café’s latte magnet might stay on a fridge for months, while a pet groomer’s magnet with a client’s dog photo sparks repeat visits.
SMBs also value affordability and flexibility. They can order small batches (100–500 units) for specific campaigns—no need for 5,000 generic items. With a machine, you deliver in 3–5 days, beating big printers’ 2–3 week lead times.
Magnets also bridge digital and physical marketing. Turning a customer’s social media post (e.g., a restaurant meal pic) into a tangible item builds deeper brand connections than any ad.
How to Make Custom Magnets for SMBs: Step-by-Step
You don’t need a workshop—just a machine, quality materials, and creativity.
1. Align with the Client’s Goal
Start with a quick questionnaire:
· Promotion/event (grand opening, holiday sale)?
· Target audience (parents, professionals)?
· Brand assets (logo, photos)?
For example, a pet daycare might want magnets with play area photos and pet names to boost retention.
2. Choose Size, Materials, Design
· Size: 50x50mm (2x2 inches) is standard; 75x100mm for more visibility (e.g., real estate).
· Materials: High-gloss photo paper (vibrant colors), 0.5mm magnetic vinyl (strong, easy to cut), optional lamination (durability for contractors/shops).
· Design: Keep it simple—logo, 1–2 photos, contact info, call-to-action (e.g., “10% off first visit”). Use Canva’s pre-made templates to save time.
3. Machine Workflow
For small batches, a desktop machine (e.g., Xyron Creative Station Pro) works:
1. Print design on photo paper; let dry 5–10 minutes.
1. Load magnetic sheet into the machine.
1. Feed printed photo—machine laminates (if using film) and adheres to magnet.
1. Trim to size with built-in cutter.
Test one magnet first for alignment/color accuracy.
How to Land & Retain SMB Clients
1. Target Local Businesses
· Sample packs: Drop demo magnets (use their website photos) + pricing flyer. A coffee shop once ordered 200 magnets after seeing a demo.
· Chamber of Commerce: Attend mixers with samples or list your service in their directory.
· Social media: Post finished magnets, tag the business (e.g., “Loved making these for @MainStreetBakery!”). Social proof drives orders.
2. Budget-Friendly Packages
Avoid per-magnet pricing—offer tiers:
· Starter: 100 magnets (50x50mm), 1 design → 50 (0.50/unit)
· Popular: 250 magnets, 2 designs, lamination → 110 (0.44/unit)
· Bulk: 500 magnets (75x100mm), 3 designs, custom shapes → 220 (0.44/unit)
Include 1 free design revision to build trust.
3. Stand Out with Extras
· Handwritten delivery notes (e.g., “Hope these boost your sale!”).
· 10% reorder discount (3 months window) → repeat clients (e.g., a salon reorders quarterly).
· Upsell complementary items (stickers, keychains) using the same machine.
Final Thoughts
Custom magnets for SMBs are a sustainable business—low startup costs ($200+), 60% profit margins, and constant demand. Focus on solving clients’ needs (more customers, loyalty) with quality and service.
Pick a beginner machine, make demo magnets for local SMBs, and watch orders roll in. Have you used/ made magnets for businesses? Share in comments!