Welcome to Subscriptions Weekly! This week’s headlines cover major industry shifts — from Meta’s move toward paid privacy to how businesses can grow by listening more. We also spotlight new consumer perks from Apple and Walmart and guide you through revenue recognition automation. Plus: Subscription sessions is happening tomorrow — don’t miss it!

Subscription Sessions: Spring edition happens tomorrow Our biggest virtual event of the season is almost here! Join leaders from Scentbird, FabFitFun, PayPal, Recurly and more, for a day of strategic insights into the future of subscriptions. Register here

  • April 16, 2025 | 10 AM BST / 10 AM PST

  • Free virtual event | One day, five sessions

Meta’s ad-free subscription model could spark global privacy shifts

Meta is preparing to offer a paid, ad-free version of Facebook and Instagram in the EU in response to tightening privacy regulations. While the model may start as a regional compliance move, it could set the tone for global platform monetization strategies.

Why it matters: Consumers are increasingly aware of how their data is used — and willing to pay for more control. “While Meta’s ad-free option may begin as a response to compliance, it could become a global expansion strategy,” said Lina Tonk, Chief Marketing Officer at Recurly. For subscription businesses, this moment signals the importance of building trust through transparent, user-first experiences. Read more

Apple TV+ offers 70% discount to attract new subscribers

Apple is offering a limited-time promo on Apple TV+ for new and returning users — 70% off your first three months, ending April 24th. That’s just $2.99/month, a steep drop from the usual $9.99/month.

Why it matters: Streaming platforms are battling churn with aggressive acquisition tactics. This pricing play reflects the broader shift toward offering bite-sized value upfront to earn long-term loyalty. Read the full story

Walmart+ week returns with exclusive deals for subscribers

Walmart just announced the return of Walmart+ Week — an exclusive sales event running April 28th through May 4th, open only to Walmart+ subscribers. Consumers can get great discounts and early access offers across key categories.

Why it matters: This move underscores how traditional retailers are leveraging subscription perks to drive loyalty. As competition heats up, exclusive member benefits are becoming a baseline expectation, not a bonus. Read the full story

Mixed cart checkout is a must-have for ecommerce brands

Subscription businesses that support both one-time and recurring purchases in a single cart are seeing higher AOV, lower churn, and happier customers. Learn how mixed carts boost loyalty and revenue — and how brands like FabFitFun and Dollar Shave Club are leading the way. Read the full article

Listening is a growth strategy — not just a nice idea

What does it really mean to be “customer-obsessed”? Our CMO, Lina Tonk, shares her perspective on the C-Suite Sales & Marketing Perspectives podcast: B2B growth happens when teams listen deeply — not just in customer support, but across sales, product, and marketing.

Why it matters: When customers feel understood, loyalty follows. Lina breaks down how Recurly uses listening to shape go-to-market strategies, product direction, and authentic customer storytelling. The result? Stronger relationships and measurable business impact. Listen or read the full recap

State of Subscriptions report: Sharpen your strategy for what’s ahead

Q1 is in the books — now’s the time to recalibrate. The State of Subscriptions report is packed with insights on what’s working across pricing, loyalty, retention, and more. Whether you're refining your model or launching something new, this report has what you need to make smarter moves. The second half of the year is full of opportunity — but only if you're tuned into the trends shaping subscription growth. This report helps you benchmark, adapt, and lead with confidence. Download the full report