The latest digital marketing trends – 2025

Dave’s summary of the digital marketing trends for 2025

Each year I create a summary of the latest trends. Here are the top digital marketing trends for 2025 on my Smart Insights site. Includes more details on the research with a focus on marketing technology and AI in marketing and a downloadable report.

  • Lack of a dedicated digital strategy – Nearly half of businesses engage in digital marketing without a clear plan, hindering effectiveness.
  • Digital Maturity increases (slowly) – Many businesses recognize the need to enhance their digital capabilities but progress remains gradual.
  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Smarter Marketing – Implementing SOPs can streamline marketing processes and improve efficiency.
  • AI and Machine Learning Integration – The adoption of AI and machine learning is transforming marketing strategies by enabling personalized customer experiences.
  • Zero-Click Marketing – Optimizing content to provide answers directly on search engine results pages, reducing the need for users to click through to websites.
  • Increased Focus on Customer Experience (CX) – Businesses are prioritizing seamless and personalized customer journeys to enhance satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Growth of Visual and Voice Search – The rising use of visual and voice search technologies is changing how consumers find information online.
  • Enhanced Data Privacy Measures – Stricter data protection regulations are prompting marketers to adopt more transparent and secure data practices.
  • Expansion of Marketing Technology (MarTech) Stacks – Businesses are investing in comprehensive MarTech solutions to better manage and analyze marketing activities.
  • Emphasis on Sustainability and Ethical Marketing – Consumers are increasingly favouring brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility and ethical practices.

About Smart Insights

Dr Dave Chaffey is co-founder and Content Director of digital marketing advice site Smart Insights. We’re a publisher and learning platform that helps our 150,000 active members in over 100 countries plan, manage and optimize their digital marketing activities by applying the actionable advice in our planning templates, guides and interactive e-learning tools.

Free members can download our free templates and benchmark their digital capabilities.