Why Now is the Time to Talk Cash Flow with Retail Clients

If you want an easy way to get the attention of a business owner this fall, consider talking to retailers about improving their cash flow. Two months before the holidays is when retailers face their low point in cash flow for the year. They’ve bought all their holiday merchandise but have not received any of the cash. It's the perfect time to talk to them about creating some recurring revenue streams.

New analysis from Value Builder Analytics, composed of insights from business owners who’ve completed their Value Builder Score Report, reveals that half of all retail businesses report no recurring revenue at all, compared to just 30% across other industries.

That 20-point gap highlights a structural weakness: retailers are far more dependent on one-time sales, leaving them with unpredictable cash flow and higher valuation risk.

This is your chance to show up with a simple idea that changes the conversation. Right now, many retailers are sitting on inventory, waiting for December sales to turn into cash. You don’t need to map out an entire loyalty program or subscription model to get their attention. Start smaller, like proposing a prepaid membership card that brings in cash before the holidays, or talk about offering VIP perks for repeat buyers.

These are quick-to-understand concepts that open the door. The mechanics can come later. What matters is you’ve introduced a way to turn unpredictable one-time sales into reliable, repeatable revenue.

Quick Links

📖 Want to go deeper on recurring revenue? Our free eBook The Subscription Economy shows nine proven models any business can use to create steadier cash flow.

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Advisor News is brought to you by The Value Builder System^TM, a value assessment platform that helps advisors start strategic conversations with business owners.

This Issue’s Contributors: Jason Reilly, Editor; Michael Sarkis, Director of Value Builder Analytics; Deanne Kong Ting, Director of Customer Success; Jen Chou, Senior Graphic Designer