Small Business Marketing Trends To Watch In 2025

As we move into 2025, the landscape for outdoor living businesses is more competitive than ever. From deck builders to patio installation companies, outdoor living brands need to adapt to the latest marketing trends to attract new clients, build trust, and stay relevant in a rapidly changing market. Here are some top marketing trends outdoor living companies should watch for in 2025 to stand out and succeed.

1. Hyper-Personalized Marketing Using AI

Personalization has been a buzzword for a while, but advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are pushing it to new levels. In 2025, AI-driven personalization allows companies to create marketing that feels custom-tailored to each customer. For outdoor living companies, this might mean sending targeted content based on customer interests, location, or past interactions. With AI, you can offer personalized product recommendations, send tailored offers, and even predict when customers are most likely to need services.

How to implement: Use customer relationship management (CRM) systems that integrate AI to analyze customer data and automate personalized marketing efforts. For instance, a CRM can help segment your customers and send automated reminders for seasonal maintenance, design upgrades, or project anniversaries.

2. Short-Form Video Content for Visual Appeal

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have made short-form video incredibly popular. For outdoor living companies, short videos offer a perfect way to showcase transformations, highlight recent projects, and inspire potential clients. Video content is engaging, shareable, and can provide a quick, impactful look at your work and brand.

How to implement: Create short, engaging videos showcasing completed projects, design inspirations, and behind-the-scenes footage. Keep them under 60 seconds, with eye-catching visuals and a clear message. Consistency is key, so aim to post regularly and consider using these videos in your email marketing campaigns to boost engagement.

3. Local SEO and Hyper-Local Marketing

Outdoor living companies rely on local clients, making local search engine optimization (SEO) a critical area to focus on in 2025. Beyond traditional SEO, businesses are now focusing on hyper-local marketing, which means optimizing for specific neighborhoods or communities within your service area. By appearing at the top of local searches, you can capture more qualified leads from your area.

How to implement: Ensure your Google My Business profile is fully optimized with current photos, business hours, and contact information. Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews, as these can significantly impact local search rankings. You can also use location-based keywords in your blog posts and social media to increase visibility among local customers.

4. Augmented Reality (AR) for Virtual Design Previews

Imagine allowing clients to visualize a new deck, pergola, or patio in their backyard before committing to a project. In 2025, augmented reality is becoming more accessible for small businesses, and outdoor living companies can benefit greatly from this technology. By using AR, clients can experience what different designs or layouts would look like in their own space, helping to shorten the sales cycle and increase customer satisfaction.

How to implement: Invest in an AR tool or app that allows clients to upload photos of their outdoor spaces and try out different designs. Many AR applications are now affordable and don’t require high-tech expertise, making them feasible for small businesses. Highlight this capability in your marketing materials to attract tech-savvy clients looking for a more interactive experience.

5. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Marketing

Environmental responsibility is a top priority for many homeowners, especially when investing in outdoor spaces. Sustainable and eco-friendly practices have become essential in marketing, as clients increasingly choose companies that align with their values. Highlighting sustainable materials, eco-friendly processes, or water-saving landscaping practices can make your outdoor living company more appealing in 2025.

How to implement: Showcase any eco-friendly products or practices on your website, social media, and marketing materials. Share stories about how your company uses sustainable materials or promotes environmentally friendly designs. Transparency about your environmental impact can help attract clients who value sustainability.

6. Customer Experience (CX) as a Marketing Focus

Providing an exceptional customer experience is essential in 2025, where customer expectations are higher than ever. A seamless and enjoyable experience from the first inquiry to the project’s completion can set you apart from competitors and drive more referrals. CX-focused marketing emphasizes customer satisfaction and makes your clients feel valued.

How to implement: Streamline the customer journey by improving communication, providing clear project timelines, and maintaining transparency. Consider implementing follow-up surveys to understand where you can improve. By focusing on CX, you’ll create a more positive perception of your brand, leading to strong word-of-mouth and repeat clients.

7. Social Commerce for On-Platform Sales and Booking

Social media platforms are increasingly integrating e-commerce features, allowing customers to browse, book consultations, and even make payments directly on the platform. This trend is known as social commerce, and it’s a game-changer for outdoor living companies looking to turn social followers into clients. Offering easy access to services or consultations directly through social media can make it easier for clients to take the next step.

How to implement: Set up services and booking options on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, where clients can view your portfolio, message you directly, and schedule a consultation. This makes it convenient for clients who discover you on social media to convert into leads without having to leave the platform.

8. Leveraging User-Generated Content (UGC) for Authenticity

Potential customers trust other customers more than they trust brands. User-generated content, such as client photos, testimonials, and reviews, helps to build credibility and create authentic connections with your audience. For outdoor living companies, UGC can provide valuable social proof, showcasing real projects and client satisfaction.

How to implement: Encourage your clients to share their finished outdoor spaces on social media. Offer incentives like a small discount or entry into a giveaway to motivate clients to post photos of your completed work. Share these posts on your own social media and website to build trust and show potential clients what they can expect from your work.

9. Voice Search Optimization for Mobile Searches

As voice search becomes increasingly popular, optimizing for voice search is essential for capturing local, mobile customers. Many homeowners use voice search on their smartphones to find nearby services, especially when they’re actively looking for a company to handle a new project.

How to implement: Adjust your content to include conversational phrases and questions that clients might use in voice search. For example, instead of “deck installation,” try phrases like “Who installs custom decks near me?” or “Best outdoor living companies in [your city].” These adjustments help your content match the way people speak when using voice search.

Conclusion

The marketing landscape for outdoor living companies is set to evolve significantly in 2025, with trends like hyper-personalized marketing, short-form videos, AR experiences, and a focus on sustainability shaping the future. Staying on top of these trends can help your business attract more clients, build stronger relationships, and stand out in an increasingly competitive market. Embrace these changes to better serve your clients, and you’ll set yourself up for a successful and growth-oriented year ahead. By adapting to new marketing strategies and focusing on the client experience, your outdoor living company can thrive and remain competitive in 2025 and beyond.

If you’re ready to propel your small business to the top using proven email marketing strategies, Higgins Marketing Group can help. Contact us for a pressure-free chat about how we can help you reach your goals.        

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