What's in Store for Business in 2025? Insights from experts on future predictions for UK businesses in 2025

As the UK braces for another year of economic challenges and opportunities, leading founders from diverse industries offer their visions for what 2025 holds for business. From the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) to the growing demand for purpose-driven businesses, their insights provide a glimpse into the evolving market and how entrepreneurs can adapt to thrive in the coming years.

AI, AI, AI….

As we step into 2025, the intersection of AI, purpose-driven enterprises, and sector-spanning innovation is set to shape the future of entrepreneurship. For business leaders and founders, this shifting terrain offers opportunities laced with complexity. AI has transitioned from a buzzword to a core component of modern enterprise, enabling businesses to streamline operations, deliver deeply personalised experiences, and anticipate market changes with remarkable precision. However, entrepreneurs who fail to engage with these tools risk being left behind in an increasingly tech-driven world.

Laura Davidson, co-founder of Tag Digital, a digital marketing agency that is part of Scale Up Scotland, sees automation and AI becoming a key force in transforming businesses. "For 2025, automation and AI will shift from broad, theoretical discussions to driving systematic change with a clear focus on removing drudgery and upskilling teams," she explains. She also points out that AI adoption will be increasingly decentralised, with functional teams taking more responsibility for its implementation.

"To deepen understanding and ensure meaningful adoption, we'll see companies appointing AI ambassadors within each functional team to add more value and recognise productivity gains," she says. "Additionally, there will be a rapid ramp-up in Large Language Model (LLM) upskilling, particularly in prompting and usage expertise, driven by increased daily interaction and advancements in multimedia inputs."

Data is a valuable resource, and this year, B2B businesses will focus on creating content to build a year-round, engaged community of potential customers, all aimed at providing value. Davidson highlights the value of data in a privacy-centric world. "The shift to a more privacy-centric world means that the data companies own will be potentially more valuable than the business itself," she predicts.

A shift in focus

The UK is set for a turbulent year, with ongoing economic pressures creating both challenges and opportunities across sectors. Danny Campbell, founder of the architecture firm HOKO, believes we're likely to see significant shifts in the business landscape. "First, we might witness a wave of businesses either leaving or selling within the UK, reflecting the ongoing challenges of operating in a post-Brexit, high-inflation environment," he warns.

He also expects AI to dominate the business scene. "The rise of AI-backed tech companies will dominate, though I predict a tightening of regulations around what can genuinely be called AI, curbing some of the current hype," Campbell adds.

However, beyond the tech sector, Campbell emphasises a resurgence of industries where human skills remain irreplaceable. "I expect a renewed focus on industries that AI cannot disrupt – roles that require a human touch, such as skilled trades and artisan crafts," he says. "There's an opportunity here for entrepreneurs to redefine these sectors, creating new growth stories in areas that AI can't replicate."

To B- (Corp) or not to B

Equally transformative is the rise of purpose-led businesses, a trend that reflects a broader societal demand for accountability and ethics. Today's consumers expect more than just products or services-they seek alignment with brands that reflect their values, whether that's sustainability, inclusivity, or fair labor practices. For entrepreneurs, this means rethinking business models to ensure that purpose is not just a marketing strategy but a genuine, measurable commitment. Purpose-led ventures are not only attracting a loyal customer base but are increasingly seen as sound investments by those highlighting long-term value over short-term profits.

Eilidh Cunningham, director at the design company POTR, predicts a surge in businesses prioritising purpose and authenticity in 2025. "More companies will pursue B-Corp status, reflecting a growing consumer demand for meaningful connections with brands that prioritise sustainability and social impact," Cunningham says. She believes that this shift will become a key differentiator as consumers seek brands they trust and align with their values.

In addition, Cunningham sees a move away from traditional, polished advertising. "Consumers are increasingly turning toward media that feels raw, real, and relatable - almost 'anti-advertising,'" she explains. "Entrepreneurs will need to innovate with low-cost, authentic ways to reach their audiences, from leveraging viral content to embracing grassroots campaigns." She also foresees a focus on expanding into new markets. "A slow domestic market will push businesses to seek out new export markets, though this comes with challenges like navigating tariffs and trading restrictions in key regions."

Innovation across industries is also redefining how businesses operate, breaking down silos and creating unexpected partnerships. From technology revolutionising healthcare to financial services embracing green agendas, the opportunities for cross-sector collaboration are vast. Entrepreneurs who can identify and capitalise on these synergies will be well-placed to navigate a competitive market.

Success in this evolving environment will demand adaptability and a clear-eyed view of what lies ahead. Entrepreneurs must remain agile, prepared to pivot strategies as new challenges and opportunities emerge. In a world where change is the only constant, those who embrace innovation and purpose at their core will lead the way in shaping the UK's next business chapter.