From the DR Team
Trends to Lead the Way: What’s Coming in 2025 and How to Prepare
As we wrap up another crazy year in this ever-evolving industry, we can look back and say it’s been anything but dull. The past twelve months have brought major shifts in advertising — driven by tech advances and shifting consumer preferences. From generative AI breakthroughs to GA4 and the end of third-party cookies, it’s been a whirlwind. And 2025? It’s shaping up to be just as exciting. But we’re not scared — in fact, we’re stoked. Staying ahead of the curve has always been our style, and 2025 will be no exception. So, as we close out 2024, here’s a look at the DR team’s top trend predictions for 2025 and a peek into our approach. Cheers to the road ahead!
DESIGN
Top Trend: Visual Storytelling
In a content-saturated world, visual storytelling enables brands to stand out by creating immersive, relatable experiences that resonate with viewers. In 2025, brands will increasingly blend visuals with cohesive narratives to capture attention, forge emotional connections, and strengthen their messaging.
Our Strategy: Our designers will continue to create compelling narratives using carefully selected visuals, motion design, and multimedia elements, not only capturing attention for our partners but also fostering lasting relationships between brands and their audiences through the power of storytelling.
DIGITAL
Top Trend: Privacy-First Data Collection
Due to consumer demand and regulatory shifts, digital advertising will continue to pivot toward more responsible data practices. In 2025, look for platforms to prioritize consent-based data collection, focusing on zero-party data (data customers willingly share) for personalization.
Our Strategy: Our ad ops team will continue to prioritize zero-party data by creating engaging, opt-in experiences where customers willingly share preferences along with ensuring transparent communication about data usage to build trust and strengthen consumer relationships.
DEVELOPMENT
Top Trend: Universal and Accessible Design
Accessibility will continue to become a priority as more brands expand their digital inclusivity efforts. In 2025, designs will be expected to consider accessibility by default, with color choices, fonts, and layouts tested for readability and usability across all abilities.
Our Strategy: Our digital design and development teams are fully trained in ADA and WCAG standards. We’re here to guide our partners in making their websites accessible and ensure they meet or exceed current requirements.
SOCIAL
Top Trend: Decentralized and Niche Social Platforms
With growing user interest in privacy, niche and decentralized platforms (like Threads, Bluesky, Mastodon and BeReal) will continue to attract audiences. In 2025, brands will need to diversify their social presence and adapt content strategies for different platform cultures.
Our Strategy: Our content team is here to assist our partners in evaluating, testing, and establishing a presence on emerging social platforms, helping you invest in communities that align with your audiences and values.
MEDIA
Top Trend: Omnichannel Programmatic Advertising
Programmatic ads will extend across more touchpoints (TV, streaming, OOH, voice, etc.), requiring a consistent, cross-channel approach. In 2025, media buying will continue to be data-driven and integrated, blending physical and digital touchpoints for cohesive storytelling.
Our Strategy: Our ad ops and media teams are developing omnichannel strategies and measurement frameworks, helping our partners understand how programmatic campaigns can create a unified customer experience.
PRODUCTION
Top Trend: Video Optimization Without the Rules
Defying traditional video optimization rules is on the rise as brands aim to create authentic, standout content across platforms. Instead of strictly following each platform’s guidelines, creators will continue to experiment with unique formats and storytelling to capture attention, emphasizing creativity and audience connection over rigid optimization.
Our Strategy: Our multimedia team will continue to prioritize flexibility, experimentation, and data-driven insights by fostering a creative culture of risk-taking. We will work with partners to develop engaging content that resonates with audiences and connects beyond algorithm-driven preferences.
STRATEGY
Top Trend: Capitalizing on AI
AI is transforming strategy development, enabling brands to deliver personalized campaigns at scale. By leveraging tools that analyze consumer data to identify trends, predict behavior, and optimize content, brands will gain a competitive edge. Additionally, AI will continue to enhance creativity by streamlining the production of visuals, copy, and videos, driving both efficiency and innovation in marketing.
Our Strategy: Our culture of continuous learning and experimentation will continue to allow us to maintain a competitive edge in leveraging AI tools responsibly.
Top Trend: Ethical and Transparent Brand Positioning
As consumers call for greater transparency, brands must prioritize ethical, clear communication as a cornerstone of their strategy. In 2025, authentic messaging around values and impact will be essential for engaging customers and standing out from competitors.
Our Strategy: We’re helping partners position themselves authentically by highlighting their ethical practices, social contributions, and commitment to transparency, while being wary of performative claims.
Have questions about how these trends will affect your advertising strategy in 2025? Hit us up, we’d love to chat.