15 Apr Navigating economic turbulence
Are subscription-based communities facing challenges at the moment?
With today’s economy, where uncertainty looms and consumers tighten their purse strings, subscription-based companies do indeed find themselves facing an array of challenges.
According to the Revenue Cat online magazine – subscription services experienced a surge in popularity during the pandemic, with cautious consumers turning to subscriptions for some sense of normality and excitement in their daily lives. However, as our regular brick-and-mortar shopping options reopened and inflation continued to increase, consumers have continued reassessing their monthly expenditures. Placing subscriptions that once seemed indispensable under scrutiny as they attempt to adjust to the changing economic conditions.
The global economy has seen its fair share of ups and downs, but recent events have amplified the financial concerns of consumers worldwide. With economic downturns, inflationary pressures, and rising costs of living, many individuals are adopting a more cautious approach to spending. This shift in behaviour has significant implications for subscription-based businesses, which rely on consistent revenue streams from recurring payments.
Kearney Consumer Institute & Recurly articles even predicted further consistency in this decline after conducting a survey within the United States that found results showing that individuals felt they had too many subscriptions and majority mentioned they needed to reduce the amount they paid towards them to less than $50. Whilst this survey was conducted in the USA, the same patterns can be seen in Africa as well.
From shifts in spending habits to increased competition for discretionary income, businesses in the subscription model industry have been forced to navigate these turbulent waters with innovation and adaptability. However, amidst these challenges, some companies are finding success by prioritizing value and addressing the changing needs of their customers. Today we intend to share some of these tips.
One of the primary challenges subscription companies face in this climate is customer retention. As consumers scrutinize their expenses and seek to maximize the value of every dollar spent, they may reassess the necessity of their subscriptions. What was once considered a convenience or luxury may now be deemed expendable, leading to increased churn rates for subscription services. The main question that lies within most subscription-based companies is “How can we maintain the ongoing value proposition of our product?” From the research we have conducted the way some of the companies within this industry have done it is through refining their offerings or services to ensure that is adds value to their community. This involves refining and simplifying processes, anticipating potential consumer needs, gaps, and filling those.
Due to this re-evaluation of money expenditure within consumers, competition within the subscription space has intensified, with new players discovering unseen consumer needs and using that to re-enter or step into the market regularly. From streaming services and meal prep kits to software subscriptions, to membership platforms and wellness apps, consumers are presented with a plethora of options vying for their subscription. In such a crowded marketplace, it is essential for companies to differentiate themselves not only through their offerings but also through the value they provide to their customers.
Addressing Economic Challenges Through Value-Adding Features:
In the face of these challenges, forward-thinking subscription companies are proactively adapting their strategies to align with the evolving needs of their customer base. MYMEMBERSHIP® recognises the importance of addressing these ever-changing economic changes head-on and we have designed our platform with a range of value-adding features tailored to meet the demands of the financially savvy.
MYMEMBERSHIP® also offers your organisation the option to set up flexible pricing plans as we understand that one-size-fits-all pricing models may no longer suffice. Offering this option to your community ensures your organisation caters to different budgetary constraints. Whether customers prefer monthly, quarterly, or annual billing cycles, they have the flexibility to choose a plan that best suits their financial circumstances based on what you decide to offer.
In addition to its core services, MYMEMBERSHIP® goes above and beyond to provide added value to the members of your organisation by taking the time to design each platform according to the unique needs of each organisation. By continually enhancing our value proposition, our platform fosters loyalty and incentivizes customers to remain engaged.
Transparent communication is paramount in building trust and credibility with customers, especially during times of economic uncertainty. MYMEMBERSHIP® allows your organisation to maintain open lines of communication with your community, keeping them informed about any changes to pricing, features, or offerings. By being upfront and honest, your platform will foster a sense of transparency and accountability, thereby strengthening member relationships.
Stagnation is the enemy of progress, particularly in the fast-paced world of subscription-based businesses. MYMEMBERSHIP® prioritizes innovation, constantly seeking ways to improve our services and stay ahead of the curve. Whether through technological advancements, product enhancements, or strategic partnerships, our platform remains agile and responsive to the changing needs of our clients.
Beyond the transactional aspect of subscriptions, MYMEMBERSHIP® fosters a sense of community among our clients’ communities. Through online surveys and virtual events, members have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and support one another. This sense of belonging not only enhances the overall customer experience but also strengthens retention rates.
Although subscription-based companies face a myriad of challenges stemming from changing consumer behaviours, increased competition, and economic uncertainty. By prioritizing value and innovation, your organisation will not only weather the storm but thrive in the face of adversity. By offering flexible pricing plans, enhancing your value proposition, maintaining transparent communication, fostering continuous innovation, and nurturing community engagement, your organisation will redefine the subscription experience and cement your position as leaders in the industry. As the economic landscape continues to evolve, the success of subscription businesses will ultimately hinge on your ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver exceptional value to your customers so contact us if you would like to stay ahead of the game.
Why having versatile payment offerings matters:
Versatile payment offerings complement the ideals of inclusivity by ensuring that financial transactions are accessible to EVERYONE, regardless of their economic background or technological capabilities. A one-size-fits-all approach to payment methods may exclude certain individuals or communities, limiting their participation in your organisation and ultimately hindering growth.
By offering a variety of payment options, organisations not only cater to the diverse needs of their member base but also tap into new markets. Whether it’s traditional methods like cash or card payments, or modern solutions like mobile wallets, a versatile payment system accommodates the preferences and circumstances of a wide range of consumers.
Moreover, in an era where technology is rapidly evolving, versatile payment options align with the diverse ways people manage their finances. From the unbanked to tech-savvy individuals, a flexible payment infrastructure ensures that everyone can participate in the digital economy, fostering financial inclusion and empowerment.
All in all, the synergy between inclusivity and versatile payment offerings creates a dynamic and responsive environment that reflects the true spirit of a connected world. By recognizing and embracing diversity in all its forms, and by providing versatile payment solutions, we not only bridge gaps but also pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for all. Our commitment to providing a superior membership experience goes beyond the services we offer – it extends to the very process of payment ensuring all your members are covered and, most importantly, included. At MYMEMBERSHIP®, we believe that choice empowers members and our diverse array of payment methods reflects this commitment to flexibility, simplicity, and individualized service.
In our ever-evolving world, the importance of tailored payment methods cannot be overstated. Here at MYMEMBERSHIP®, we understand that members have unique preferences, and we take pride in offering a suite of payment options that cater to their diverse needs. Whether it’s the familiarity of EFT, the speed of Ozow, or the global accessibility of VISA and credit/debit cards; semicolon our members can choose the method that aligns with their lifestyle. With MYMEMBERSHIP®, the power of choice extends to every aspect of the membership experience, ensuring that our valued members have a seamless and personalized journey with us.