The allure of “free business cards” advertised online is undeniable. But how can companies afford to give away a product without recouping their costs somehow? This question prompted me to investigate a company offering these seemingly free cards.
Upon visiting their website, it became clear that the free offer was just one piece of a larger puzzle. The company prominently featured upgrades to the free package, alongside an array of other products, including magnetic, plastic, and metal business cards. Furthermore, they offered company letterhead, custom-printed envelopes, and various other types of office stationery.
The business model began to take shape. It’s likely that a significant portion of those opting for the free business cards are, in fact, business professionals. These individuals are also prime candidates for purchasing envelopes, letterhead, and other essential office supplies. The profits, therefore, are likely generated through upselling and related product sales.
To determine whether the cards are truly free, I decided to order a set. The process began with designing my business card using their online tool. After completing the design, I proceeded to the order section.
During the final checkout, I was presented with numerous upgrade options. I declined additional cards and lamination. Ultimately, I discovered that the base “free business cards” were, in fact, free, requiring only payment for shipping and handling.