January 3rd, 2025

Marketing Trends 2025: What’s In and What’s Out for Small Businesses

Are small businesses prepared to adapt to the marketing shifts of 2025, or will outdated strategies hold them back? 2025 will introduce pivotal changes in strategies, technologies, and consumer preferences. Small businesses that stay informed can leverage these trends to maintain relevance and grow their market presence.

↗️ What’s In for 2025

AI-Driven Personalization

Tools like HubSpot provide affordable AI solutions to predict buying behaviors and create targeted content. According to Forbes, businesses using AI-driven personalization see a 20% increase in sales compared to generic marketing approaches.

Short-Form Video Content

Bite-sized videos dominate platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Sprout Social reports that 73% of consumers prefer short videos to learn about products or services.

Social Commerce Expansion

Social platforms now double as shopping destinations. Statista reveals that 64% of shoppers made purchases through social media in 2024, a trend expected to rise. Features like Instagram Shops and TikTok Shopping allow small businesses to sell directly to audiences without requiring a separate e-commerce site.

↗️ What’s Out for 2025

Over-Reliance on Third-Party Cookies

Gartner predicts that 80% of marketers will abandon cookie-based advertising strategies by the end of 2025. Small businesses must transition to first-party data collection methods, such as loyalty programs and email subscriptions.

One-Size-Fits-All Content

Generic marketing no longer resonates with modern consumers. McKinsey reports that 71% of consumers expect personalized interactions, and brands that deliver personalization grow revenue 40% faster.

Long-Form Static Ads

A Nielsen study found that video ads increase engagement by 49% compared to static formats. Small businesses should focus on dynamic ads that incorporate movement, sound, and clickable elements.

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