Marketing Minute: What Small Biz Owners Should Know This Week – May 5, 2025

Every week, I round up marketing and business news that matters to entrepreneurs—not the kind that makes you scroll past, but the kind that makes you stop and say, “Hmm… I should think about this.”

Here are two stories that got me thinking this Monday.

💸 Let’s Talk Retention (or… Should We?)

For as long as I can remember, we’ve been taught that retaining customers is cheaper than acquiring new ones. Right? Build loyalty. Keep them coming back. Offer points, perks, and the occasional “10% off just for you” email.

But a new analysis by James Hurman, using data from Overdose Digital, Klaviyo, and Andzen, challenges that idea. Looking at $1.2 billion in transactions from 1.7 million eCommerce customers, the study found something surprising: brands that focused on their highest spenders grew more than three times faster than those focused on broad customer retention.

Even more intriguing? Businesses without loyalty programs outperformed those who had them.

The takeaway? Maybe it’s time to stop treating all customers the same and start giving your top-tier clients the VIP experience they actually deserve.
📖 Read the full article on The Australian

🛒 Walmart’s “Grow with US” Program Could Be a Game-Changer

If you’re a product-based business owner, this might be the most exciting thing you’ll hear this month. Walmart just launched a new program called Grow with US—a four-step initiative to help U.S.-based small businesses bring their products to shelves nationwide.

It includes access to training, mentorship, and a massive pitch opportunity called the 2025 Open Call, where you get to present your product directly to Walmart and Sam’s Club buyers. That could mean instant national visibility, more credibility, and yes—more sales.

Applications open June 24, and Walmart is holding events all through May to support businesses who want to apply.
📖 Read the full story on Axios

💭 So, What Can We Take From This?

Here’s the through-line between both stories: not every strategy fits every stage of business.

For service providers and coaches: it might be time to look at who’s actually driving your revenue. How can you better serve your highest-value clients? Maybe it’s time to build offers specifically for them, rather than spreading yourself thin.

For product-based businesses: Walmart’s initiative reminds us that big opportunities do exist—but you’ve got to be ready. If you’ve got something great, this could be your shot to grow beyond your city or Instagram following.

As always, marketing isn’t just about tactics. It’s about choosing the right focus at the right time.


Want help figuring out what strategy makes sense for your business stage? That’s exactly what I do in my mentoring sessions. Let’s connect and find your right fit. 💬