Navigating the Adobe VIP programme transition: what you need to know
4 minute read
Laura Sharp
November 6th, 2025
Change is never far away in the world of technology, and Adobe’s transition from the legacy Value Incentive Plan (VIP) to the VIP Marketplace is an example of how innovation can streamline and simplify the way organisations manage their software subscriptions.
Key deadlines to remember:
- Commercial customers: after May 31, 2025 you will no longer be able to make value-adding transactions, such as new subscriptions, upgrades, or license quantity increases, in the legacy VIP programme. All new and renewal orders must be processed through the VIP Marketplace
- Government and education customers: the legacy VIP program retires on 30 November 2025
After these dates, all new and renewal orders will need to be processed through the VIP Marketplace. If you’re a commercial customer, note that new VIP contracts can no longer be created in the legacy programme from 2 December 2024 onwards.
What does this mean for your organisation?
From the transition dates, you’ll no longer be able to make value-adding transactions, such as new subscriptions, upgrades, or licence quantity increases within the legacy VIP programme. Instead, all activity will move to the VIP Marketplace, which is designed to be more efficient and user-friendly.
For government and education customers, the legacy VIP programme will be fully retired after 30 November 2025. All transactions will need to be made through the VIP Marketplace, ensuring a consistent and streamlined experience.
Why move to VIP Marketplace?
The VIP Marketplace offers a host of benefits designed to make your Adobe subscription management easier and more reliable:
- Automatic renewals: licences renew by default, so you never miss a day’s productivity. If you need to make changes or cancel, simply contact your Account Manager before your anniversary date
- Flexible purchasing: buy as many or as few licences as you need, with the ability to add more as your organisation grows
- Streamlined processes: automated renewals and billing, easier licence management, and more flexible return and proration policies
- Consolidated invoicing: receive a single monthly invoice, making budgeting and administration simpler
What’s changing?
Here’s a quick comparison of the legacy VIP and VIP Marketplace features:
Feature | Adobe VIP | Adobe VIP Marketplace |
Licence addition grace period | 30 days | 7 days |
Returns | 14 days after order date; no partial returns | 14 days after order date; partial returns allowed |
Renewal process | Manual renewal | Auto-renewal (opt-out available) |
Proration for added licences | Monthly | Daily |
Invoicing | Per order | Consolidated monthly invoice |
Order processing | Manual via Adobe or reseller | Automated via partner marketplaces (Phoenix Solutions Platform) |
Volume discount qualification | Single transaction or look-back | Single qualifying transaction |
Licence management | Adobe Admin Console | Adobe Admin Console |
Payment terms | Paid upfront | Paid upfront |
Pricing levels | Same across both programs | Same across both programs |
Commitment options | 1-year, 3-year, or extended terms | Same options available |
The core licensing agreement remains largely unchanged, but operational terms, especially around renewals, returns, and billing are updated to reflect the Marketplace model.
Supporting you through the transition
We understand that change can bring questions and challenges. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your organisation continues to get the most from your Adobe solutions. If you have any questions about the transition or need help planning your move to the VIP Marketplace, we’re ready to help.
How can we make this transition easier for you?
Get in touch to discuss your organisation’s needs and discover how the VIP Marketplace through Phoenix Solutions Platform can help you stay productive, flexible, and futureproof.
About the author
Laura Sharp, Adobe Business Development Manager.
Working for Phoenix since 2021, Laura is responsible for ensuring our Adobe Partnership continues to benefit both Phoenix and our customers. She works with the sales teams to align our Adobe offerings to our customers’ goals to achieve the best outcomes.