4 Marketing Trends to Watch in 2025
Image from Leo Lin via Flaunter.
The marketing landscape in 2025 promises to be more innovative and immersive than ever, with brands leveraging advanced technologies and refined strategies to connect with their audiences on deeper levels. Let’s explore four key trends shaping the year ahead: sensory marketing with food, seasonal marketing in contextual environments, augmented reality (AR) for virtual experiences, and the rise of social commerce.
Sensory Marketing Using Food
In a world where digital interactions often dominate, brands are finding ways to engage audiences through sensory experiences—and food is taking centre stage. The essence of sensory marketing lies in stimulating one or more of the five senses to create a memorable brand impression. Food, with its universal appeal, has emerged as a powerful medium for this.
Brands are utilising campaigns surrounding food experiences that tie back to their brand identity. A standout example of this is Meshki’s noodle bowl social activation for their recent Rest and Recovery collection. In this, they crafted clothing out of noodle dough, seamlessly blending food and fashion to create an unforgettable sensory experience.
Last year, Rhode also found ways to incorporate edible elements into their campaigns like their Cinnamon Lip Peptide Treatment or their Pineapple Refresh Fash Cleanser. These tactile experiences are increasingly integrated with digital campaigns.
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Seasonal Marketing in Contextual Environments
Seasonal marketing has always been a staple, but in 2025, it’s about placing products in environments that reflect the season’s essence—and doing so with authenticity and creativity.
Lifestyle photoshoots and videos that feature products in real-world, seasonal contexts resonate with consumers. For example, showcasing outdoor furniture on a snowy deck transforms it into a winter-friendly product with cozy throws and fire pits. It also highlights durability, high quality and the products ability to withstand a variety of environments.
A perfect example of this is Rhode’s winter campaign, where the brand leaned into the season’s aesthetic with cozy, snow-laden backdrops that beautifully complemented their product line. Geo-targeted advertising ensures that seasonal campaigns are relevant.
Additionally, partnering with local artisans or creators to tell seasonal stories—like a series of short films celebrating holiday traditions—can establish a deeper emotional connection with audiences.
Augmented Reality for Virtual Experiences
Augmented Reality (AR) is no longer a novelty; it’s becoming a mainstream marketing tool, enabling consumers to interact with brands and products in highly engaging ways.
AR allows customers to visualize how a product fits into their lives. From trying on makeup to seeing how furniture looks in their home, AR eliminates uncertainty in the buying process. At live events, AR activations bring digital elements to physical spaces, offering attendees a hybrid experience. For example, Louis Vuitton’s AR filters allow users to virtually try on accessories or explore collections through interactive 3D visuals, bridging the gap between the digital and physical shopping experience.
Brands are also integrating AR into gamified campaigns, where customers can unlock discounts or discover exclusive content through AR-enabled scavenger hunts. Take a look at this one with Zendaya X Louis Vuitton.
The Rise of Social Commerce
Social commerce is reshaping the shopping experience, with platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest leading the charge. By blending content, community, and commerce, these platforms make it seamless for consumers to discover and purchase products without ever leaving the app.
Shoppable posts and live-stream shopping events allow users to go from discovery to checkout within seconds. The convenience factor has turned social platforms into virtual storefronts. AI-driven algorithms curate product suggestions based on user preferences, making the shopping journey feel intuitive and tailored.
User-generated content, influencer partnerships, and branded challenges engage audiences while driving conversions. For example, influencers can showcase products in authentic ways, instantly linking to purchase options.
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As marketing evolves in 2025, the common thread across these trends is a focus on enriching customer experiences. Sensory marketing, seasonal campaigns, AR, and social commerce demonstrate that consumers are seeking connection, authenticity, and convenience. Brands that embrace these trends will not only capture attention but also foster lasting relationships with their audiences.