Researchers with the DMA's Customer Engagement - Acquisition and the Consumer Mindset study found that 73% of consumers avoid long-term service contracts and that just over half (54%) look for the "most flexible" subscription options, despite the cost savings associated with longer term commitments.

But your business doesn't include a subscription option? Perhaps it should. The researcher further found that nearly half (45%) of subscription shoppers "would pay more" for products/services that are included in subscription plans. The key, of course, is to find the right subscription plan and option for the customer base.

"Flexible subscriptions are well-suited to a consumer's desire for more choice and control across all aspects of the customer experience. These offer customers a way to try something new without having to commit themselves to a long-term relationship - offering a combination of increased convenience, competitive prices and better service," said Rachel Aldighieiri, MD of the DMA.

Other interesting findings from the report include:

▪ 77% of parents are in at least one subscription service
▪ 83% of households with incomes over $75,000/year have at least one subscription
▪ 59% of Millennials believe subscription services are valuable

Study: Shoppers don't want ties

And not just neckties. New data out from The Digital Marketing Association finds that a majority of shoppers don't want to be longterm ties to brands and will, in fact, pay more for products just so they won't be tied down.