LinkedIn's TOP companies, Watch Shop CLOSES stores & Jumping on the Easter HYPE

From global employers to Easter eggs, this week’s newsletter is all about strategic growth, knowing when to chase it and when to pause. We look at what small teams can learn from LinkedIn ’s Top 25 Companies list, explore why The Watches of Switzerland Group is pulling back on expansion and share why seasonal moments like Easter should be marked on every small business’ marketing calendar.

LinkedIn’s Top Companies list

Every year, LinkedIn’s Top Companies list offers a snapshot of which large employers are getting it right when it comes to growth, culture and career development. While the companies on the 2025 list are global giants, there’s plenty small businesses can learn from them. Whether you have five employees or fifty, adopting the mindset and practices of top-performing organisations like investing in talent, building inclusive workplaces and staying agile can create a powerful foundation for long-term success. After all, big companies didn’t start big, they grew by doing the small things right.

While these organisations operate on a different scale than small businesses, there are valuable lessons to be learned from their practices.

Key takeaways include:

• Invest in Employee Development: Prioritise training and upskilling opportunities to enhance productivity and job satisfaction.
• Foster an Inclusive Culture: Create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, leading to innovation and a positive workplace.
• Embrace Flexibility: Implement flexible work arrangements to improve work-life balance and attract top talent.
• Prioritise Employee Well-being: Offer benefits that support mental and physical health, contributing to a more engaged workforce.

By adopting these strategies, small businesses can build a strong foundation for growth and employee satisfaction.

Why Watches of Switzerland Closed 16 Showrooms and What Small Businesses Can Learn

Watches of Switzerland Group, the UK’s leading luxury watch retailer, has recently closed 16 showrooms across the UK, Europe and the US. This move is part of a strategic realignment aimed at optimising their retail footprint amid shifting market dynamics and consumer behaviours.

Despite ambitious plans to double sales and profits by 2028, targeting over £3 billion in revenue, the company is reassessing its expansion strategy. The closures are not indicative of failure but rather a calculated decision to focus on high-performing locations and adapt to the growing emphasis on eCommerce and mono-brand boutiques.

For small businesses, this serves as a valuable lesson: growth should be strategic, not just expansive. It's essential to evaluate the performance of each business segment and be willing to make tough decisions, such as closing underperforming outlets, to ensure long-term sustainability. Prioritising quality over quantity can lead to a more robust and resilient business model.

In an era where consumer preferences and market conditions are rapidly evolving, agility and strategic foresight are crucial. By learning from the calculated moves of industry leaders like Watches of Switzerland, small businesses can better navigate the complexities of growth and expansion.

Easter means BIG spending for UK Consumers

UK shoppers are projected to spend £2.3 billion over the Easter weekend in 2025, with an average spend of £124.75 per person - a £12.35 increase from the previous year. Notably, over 70% of this expenditure is expected to focus on food and drink, but gifts, DIY kits and family activities are also significant contributors. This surge in seasonal spending presents a valuable opportunity for small businesses to capitalise on holiday trends through themed marketing and product offerings.

Why Seasonal Marketing Matters for Small Businesses

Seasonal events like Easter are more than just dates on the calendar, they're catalysts for consumer spending and engagement. By aligning your marketing efforts with these occasions, you can tap into the heightened consumer interest and drive sales. This doesn't require a massive budget; even simple, themed promotions can resonate with customers and encourage purchases.

Strategies to Leverage Holiday Trends

1. Themed Product Bundles: Create special bundles or limited-edition products that align with the holiday spirit. For example, an Easter-themed gift set or a spring-inspired product line can attract attention.
2. Engaging Social Media Campaigns: Utilise platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your holiday-themed products, share behind-the-scenes content or run festive contests to increase engagement.
3. Collaborations and Partnerships: Partner with other local businesses to offer joint promotions or events, expanding your reach and providing added value to customers.
4. Email Marketing with a Festive Twist: Send out newsletters highlighting your holiday offerings, special discounts or exclusive deals to your subscriber list.
5. In-Store Decorations and Experiences: If you have a physical location, decorate your store to reflect the holiday theme, creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances the shopping experience.

If you enjoyed this newsletter and want to keep the conversation going, subscribe to stay updated on all things sustainability and eCommerce. If you think your connections would find this content valuable, please share it with them. And if you found this information helpful, don’t forget to like this post!

Lastly, if you’re not already following me on LinkedIn, make sure to hit that follow button so we can stay connected and continue sharing insights.

Any opinions referenced in this newsletter (unless otherwise stated) are my own, and do not represent any views, opinions or statements from Acquired.com.