Writing this is my final “to do” of the year, and what a year! Personally and professionally 2024 will be memorable, I’m truly thankful to everyone who was a part of it, you’re all amazing and 2025 is going to be AWESOME!

So, what will 2025 bring? I’m not fond of predictions, they age like a pint of gold top in a heatwave. That said, here goes…

‘AI’ will be everywhere, and in everything, “NEW, FROM BREKMUNCH, AI CORNFLAKES!” but whilst it will be woven into most tech, I think it may actually start to become useful. Narrowing the divide between human and machine, allowing those less technically astute to use tech like never seen before. Less ‘Deus Ex Machina’ and more democratisation of tech.

Taxes & spending will be a constant nag on the news. Businesses who aren’t right sized, and lean will suffer in all sectors. Hospitality will stutter along, but humans like to congregate, and where we gather we also like to carouse and consume. Welcoming, friendly and authentic brands are likely to do OK; providing an enjoyable experience without breaking the bank will be key. Well-known local businesses will make headway, especially if community minded.

Word of mouth marketing will be really valuable for small local businesses, reputation will matter more than ever. Whether communicated online or in person, when one human gives another the nod about their personal experience of a business it matters and will be the key to success. With budgets stretched there’ll be less YOLO money in the market and those who build solid, reliable and value driven businesses will succeed.

So here’s to 2025, whatever it is, let’s face it with a smile and a hearty cheer, HUZZAH! Here’s to you and your business, I wish you a prosperous New Year!

If you have a business issues, problem or questions just email me: [email protected] and lets have a chat.

Published December 2024 Herald Group Newspapers

Photo Credit: Dall.E