Localiq: Small Business Marketing Trends to Watch in 2025

If you're running a small business, you know how much the marketing landscape shifts every year. The 2025 Small Business Marketing Trends Report is out, and it's packed with insights from over 730 business owners and marketers around the globe. Here's what you need to know to stay competitive and connect with more customers this year.

Organic social media remains popular, but paid ads are showing stronger results. Facebook and Instagram continue to be the top platforms, with 76% and 63% of businesses using them, respectively. And while TikTok adoption is growing (34%), platforms like Snapchat and Pinterest are still underutilized.

👉 Tip: Consider adding budget to social ads if you want more measurable results and broader reach. 

2. Search Ads: A Missed Opportunity?

Only 40% of surveyed businesses are investing in search advertising—despite its high conversion potential. With 65% of users clicking on search ads when shopping, this could be one of the most underused tools by SMBs.

👉 Tip: If you're not already running Google Ads, now might be the time to start. 

3. AI is Your New Marketing Assistant

Nearly 60% of small businesses are using AI, mainly for content creation, social media scheduling, and customer chat support. AI tools are helping time-strapped teams do more with less—but remember, automation still needs a human touch. 

👉 Tip: Use AI to boost efficiency, but always review and personalize your outputs.

4. Referrals Are Still Gold

Customer referrals continue to be the top source of leads, especially for businesses with fewer than 10 employees. But digital marketing and online advertising are gaining ground, especially for larger teams.

👉 Tip: Keep encouraging happy customers to spread the word—but don't ignore the power of paid and digital. 

5. Budget Shifts & Strategy Priorities

Despite economic concerns, 49% of small businesses plan to increase their marketing budget in 2025. Top investment areas include social media ads, content marketing, search advertising, and video marketing.

👉 Tip: Focus your budget on channels that drive clear results—and avoid spreading yourself too thin. 

6. Tools, Tech, and Time

Most SMBs spend under 10 hours a week on marketing. Tools like Google Analytics, Canva, and AI-driven platforms are essential to keep things moving efficiently.

👉 Tip: Use free tools to your advantage, and outsource where you can to maximize impact.