Small Business Marketing Trends for 2025
Welcome to 2025, folks! Whether you’re still finishing off those last few Christmas chocolates (no judgment here 🍫) or already planning world domination for your business, it’s the perfect time to shake up your marketing strategy.
But what’s trending for 2025?!? I hear you cry. This year it’s all about continuing to use AI to supercharge your efforts, whilst using more “human” and relatable content to creating real connections with your audience, with a sprinkling of voice search and AR (Augmented Reality) thrown in for good measure.
Ready to find out more? Let’s dive in!
AI: Helping You Keep Those Plates Spinning
2024 saw AI become the thing, and guess what? It’s not going anywhere in 2025. From whipping up engaging content and automating social media scheduling to reading customer data like a pro, AI can make your marketing life a breeze. It’s like having a virtual assistant who never needs a coffee break!
How to Start: Test out free tools like ChatGPT for content inspiration or dive into email platforms like Constant Contact for targeted campaigns. Want to save even more time? Add an AI chatbot to your website to handle FAQs while you’re busy doing big boss things.
Video Content: Still the Showstopper
Lights, camera, action! Video is still the go-to way to grab attention in 2025. TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts—pick your platform and start filming. People love seeing the real you, so don’t stress about being perfect.
How to Start: Share behind-the-scenes moments, quick tips, or hop on a trending sound. Whether you’re cracking jokes or dropping wisdom bombs, focus on what makes your biz shine.
Interactive Content: Keep ‘Em Engaged
Let’s make marketing fun again! Interactive content like quizzes, polls, and shoppable videos are all the rage. They’re not just entertaining—they’re lead magnets in disguise.
How to Start: If you’re a baker, whip up a “What’s Your Dream Cake?” quiz. Run polls on Instagram Stories or create a mini guide with clickable elements. Keep it playful, and your audience will keep coming back for more.
Voice Search: Be the Answer
“Hey Siri, what’s the best hairdresser near me?” Voice search is growing fast, so it’s time to tweak your SEO strategy to match how people speak. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, uses structured data for clear search engine indexing, and includes a lovely FAQ section which answers all regular questions you get in natural language to boost discoverability.
Tip: Ensure your business is listed on Google My Business with accurate, up-to-date information, as voice searches often target local results e.g. “Where can I find vegan cupcakes?”. Create blog posts, FAQs, and product descriptions using conversational language and long-tail keywords. This mirrors how users phrase voice queries and increases the likelihood of your content matching their search intent.
Social Shopping: Shop Without the Checkout Queue
According to research on average, people in the United Kingdom spend about 1 hour and 49 minutes per day on social media, so why not sell directly where your customers hang out? Shoppable posts and product tags are your new best friends.
How to Start: Set up your Instagram or Facebook shop and tag your products in posts. Get comfy with these features now so you’re ready when social shopping takes over even more.
Sustainability & Social Responsibility
Being eco-friendly isn’t just trendy—it’s expected. Customers love brands that care about the planet and their communities.
How to Start: Switch to recyclable packaging, share your green initiatives online, or partner with a local charity. Small steps, big impact!
Micro-Influencers: Big Impact, Small Budgets
Forget mega-celebs! Micro-influencers are relatable and trustworthy, making them marketing gold. Plus, they’re budget-friendly.
How to Start: Find influencers whose vibe matches yours and plan a collaboration—think giveaways, product reviews, or exclusive events. Authenticity wins every time.
Augmented Reality (AR): Try Before You Buy
AR is the future, and it’s here now. Let your customers virtually try on your products or preview how something looks in their home.
How to Start: If you sell makeup, offer a virtual “try it on” tool. If you’re an interior designer, walk your clients through your design with an app. This tech is a super cool way to wow your audience.
Build a Community
People crave connection. Whether it’s an online group or a local event, creating a community builds loyalty and trust.
How to Start: Host a live Q&A, start a hashtag campaign, or team up with a fellow small biz for a joint promo. Make your customers feel like they’re part of your story.
Data Privacy: Keep It Clear
Nobody likes feeling spied on. Be upfront about how you use customer data and show them how it benefits them (think personalised deals and faster checkouts).
How to Start: Write a clear privacy policy and keep communication transparent. Customers who trust you will stick around.
Subscriptions: The Gift That Keeps Giving
Everyone loves a good subscription box or loyalty program. Regular revenue? Yes, please!
How to Start: Whether it’s a monthly goodies box, exclusive member perks, or access to premium content, give your customers a reason to stay subscribed.
Ready to Nail 2025?
And there you have it! These trends are your roadmap to marketing success this year. Whether you’re diving into AI, rocking short videos, or getting stuck into your local community, the key is to keep it authentic, fun, and all about your audience.
Feeling inspired but not sure where to start? Let’s tackle it together! Book a Marketing Strategy Session with me, and we’ll create a plan tailored just for your business. Whether you need help with these trends or a total marketing refresh, I’ve got your back.
