From AI Automation to Sustainability: Business Tech Trends to Watch This Year

Any business looking to improve its efficiency and customer experience must embrace new technologies. According to Forbes, seven out of 10 companies are already advancing towards digital transformation. In fact, the majority of customers now prefer businesses that embrace technology, as it leads to improved experiences. In this article, we’ll highlight 5 business tech trends that are set to make headlines in 2025.

Trend #1: AI Automation and Personalization

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword in the business corridors. This technology is now a reality and could drive the next industrial revolution. According to research published by Social Shepherd, 80% of companies worldwide have already integrated AI in their operations. Moreover, 25% of organizations have embraced this revolutionary technology due to customer pressure. 

AI is powerful in helping businesses collect and analyze vast datasets, enabling them to make informed, long-term strategies. Major brands like Netflix and YouTube are already using AI to offer tailored content to users, while in the world of online gaming, real money casinos are adopting AI to enhance player experiences. These casinos use AI algorithms to track user behavior, game preferences, and patterns, allowing them to recommend games and promotions specifically suited to each player. In this rapidly evolving landscape, embracing AI is no longer optional.

Trend #2: Blockchain and Cryptocurrency

Blockchain technology is another trend that’s certain to hit new heights this year. It’s a public transaction ledger with a list of records or blocks storing non-editable transaction data. Today, many tech-driven businesses use smart contracts. These are codes written on a blockchain and can execute automatically when the parties agree. According to Statista, 13% of real estate businesses already use smart contracts. 

However, cryptocurrencies are the most popular application of blockchain technology in the business world. According to numbers published by Yahoo Finance, four out of 10 businesses are using cryptos for B2B payments. Digital coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USD Tether are revolutionizing business payments due to their increased acceptance. In 2024, there were more than 560 million investors, which could surpass 800 million this year. 

Below are a few reasons why businesses are embracing cryptos:

• Cryptocurrencies allow remote cross-border payments. 
• Payments are available 24/7, unlike bank transfers. 
• Crypto payments are usually free and instant. 
• Blockchain payments are more secure and irreversible. 

Trend #3: Social Media Influencer Marketing

Influencer marketing has recently become the go-to option for organizations looking to strengthen their social media presence. Influencer marketing is simply a collaboration between a brand and a popular social media personality to market products and services. This type of marketing is widespread today on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram. 

So, why are businesses flocking to influencer marketing in their numbers? A report published by Dash reveals that this type of marketing will be worth a staggering $48 billion by 2027. Excitingly, eight out of 10 businesses interviewed by Influencer Marketing Hub believe this type of marketing is highly effective. Moreover, a 2024 report by Traackr reveals that six out of every 10 shoppers are likely to buy products trusted influencers recommend. 

Trend #4: Cloud Computing

Microsoft defines cloud computing as delivering services like data storage and security over the internet. This technology provides businesses with a significant shift from the traditional way of storing and managing data. With cloud computing, a company doesn’t have to invest in hardware or software to store data. Instead, data is stored on secure servers to allow remote access.

Today, companies are flocking to join the cloud movement more than ever. A Gartner report reveals that 85% of businesses will have a cloud-first approach by the end of the year. Besides providing remote and cost-effective data storage, this technology is highly scalable. Business brands don’t have to invest in expensive hardware to scale up/down as required. Cloud computing is also vital in remote working, which is becoming the norm today. 

Trend #5: Sustainable Business Practices

Okay, this may not be directly related to technology. However, sustainability will be a key player in the business landscape, and we cannot just sweep it under the rug. If you’re new to this term, sustainability means ensuring business practices that don’t negatively impact the environment or society. The goal here is to positively impact the environment or society without affecting business productivity and profitability. 

Speaking of profitability, reports show that green businesses will experience a bumper harvest in 2025. A study published by Profiletree.com reveals that “sustainable” products are likely to move 2.7 times faster in the market than other goods. In addition, three out of 10 customers become loyal to a business that provides green services and products. Moreover, 18% of customers consider a brand’s green background before purchasing. 

Conclusion

These are the top 5 tech trends in business that will make the headlines this year. Others include increased investment in cybersecurity systems and the growing relevance of Virtual Reality (VR) in business. Note that these trends are just predictions. However, statistics show that companies that embrace these technologies will experience more customer satisfaction and profitability. So, it’s time to take actionable steps in the fast-changing business landscape.