Apparently, it’s 2025 because time isn’t real. And that means it’s time to take everything we’ve learned this year and use that information to predict what will inform marketing trends in the new year.
It’s not a perfect science, but it’s ours, and we’re confident that at least a few of these are accurate representations of how branding will evolve in 2025.
Not much has changed in terms of the foundational elements upon which these predictions are built. Instead, the new year will likely bring more nuanced and intuitive additions to trends we’re already tracking.
- AI Continues to Expand: As AI becomes more accessible and sophisticated, it’s poised for its most impactful year yet. Expect hyper-aware and personalized campaigns—ads, emails, recommendations, and more—mined from real-time data. Trends will also shift more quickly, as AI continuously monitors and adapts to changes (robots, after all, never sleep). Staying agile in your strategies will be crucial.
- Sustainability Stays Key: With growing concerns about climate change, consumers are increasingly drawn to brands that make a meaningful environmental impact. Whether as a direct focus or a fringe benefit, eco-conscious practices will be golden. Partnering with companies committed to sustainability and implementing green initiatives within your own brand will resonate strongly in 2025.
- More Interaction: Social media engagement is vital for algorithm success and follower growth. In 2025, we predict a rise in interactive features like surveys, polls, quizzes, and review links, all designed to deepen customer engagement and loyalty.
- Short Form Content’s Longevity: TikTok remains dominant, and similar platforms like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and potential new contenders will continue to thrive. Short-form videos are easy to digest and ideal for an increasingly busy, phone-friendly audience.
- Visual Search Takes Off: From Apple Vision Pro to Android’s “circle feature” (allowing users to search by circling parts of an image), optimizing your content for visual search will be essential. Early adopters of this trend will gain a competitive edge.
- Micro-Influencers Reign Supreme: This year will favor smaller-scale influencers who cater to niche audiences. Targeting these influencers offers higher-quality engagement and better ROI than casting a wide net for generic visibility.
- Nostalgia Remains in Vogue: Nostalgia campaigns aren’t slowing down in 2025. Millennials and Gen Z continue to love revisiting the past, as demonstrated by campaigns like Pepsi’s vintage branding and Taco Bell’s throwback menu. Nostalgia evokes powerful emotions, driving connection and consumer spending.
These trends are shaping up to be the major forces in 2025 marketing. By incorporating these strategies you can position your business to stay relevant, resonate with your audience, and thrive in the evolving marketing landscape.