Marcus Gram: From $17 an Hour to a Thriving Vending Business

Meet Marcus Gram, the embodiment of determination and strategic thinking. His journey from modest beginnings to building a $500,000-a-year vending machine empire is nothing short of remarkable.

The Backstory

Just five years ago, Marcus was sharing a home with his mom in Rochester, New York. Earning a humble $17 an hour, he dreamed of something bigger. Fast-forward to today, and he’s the mastermind behind Joyner Vending, a successful company operating across six states.

Key Lessons from Marcus’s Rise:

1. Invest in Your Online Presence

Marcus knew that visibility was key. So, he rolled up his sleeves and invested $2,000 in a website overhaul. His focus? Search engine optimization and an improved user experience. The result? A steady stream of inquiries from businesses seeking reliable vending solutions. Lesson learned: A strong online presence is non-negotiable for business success.

2. Expand Your Horizons

Initially, Marcus’s vending machines found cozy spots in schools and office buildings. But he had bigger plans. In 2022, he boldly stepped into the world of manufacturing companies. Why? They offered unique perks like subsidized employee pricing. The outcome? Consistent, high-volume sales. Marcus’s advice: Don’t limit yourself—explore new markets and adapt.

3. Build a Winning Team

Scaling up meant managing operations across multiple states. Marcus faced the challenge head-on. His secret weapon? A well-chosen team. Hiring the right people ensured that Joyner Vending delivered quality and reliability. Today, his dedicated crew handles daily operations, freeing Marcus to focus on strategic growth. Lesson: Surround yourself with capable teammates.

4. Embrace Setbacks as Stepping Stones

Not every venture pans out. Marcus learned this firsthand. In 2022, he poured resources into placing vending machines at two Pennsylvania colleges. The outcome? Well, let’s just say it was a learning experience. But Marcus’s resilience shines through. His motto: Learn from setbacks and keep moving forward.

So, there you have it—the Marcus Gram playbook. From $17 an hour to leading a thriving business, he’s a testament to grit, adaptability, and the power of strategic choices.