What are the trends predicted for 2025?

As a New Year draws in, Sarah Dale takes a look at the trends ahead in 2025 speaking to Wandsworth Chamber members to gain their insights into the year ahead.

There is no denying that the past five years have been a rocky road for businesses. We have lived and worked through an unprecedented pandemic resulting in lockdowns and restrictions, Brexit and its effects on international trade, the cost-of-living crisis, a conveyor belt of Prime Ministers and a new Government. Looking ahead to 2025, are businesses in London, particularly in the Wandsworth borough, anticipating a positive change, cautiously hopeful or feeling despondent about the prospect of achieving further growth? And what are the emerging trends in business?

Aurangzaib Chawla, Managing Partner and Tax Director, Lanop Business & Tax Advisors

“Technology and innovation are shaping the business landscape. We have embraced cloud-based accounting, AI-driven analytics and automation to deliver faster and more accurate services. Innovation is at the heart of our approach – helping clients make data-driven decisions and stay ahead in a competitive market.

“Globalisation, digital transformation and the shift towards ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) compliance will be major trends. Businesses will need advisers

Rike Erdbrink, General Manager of Park Hyatt London River Thames

“We look at challenges as opportunities and we have a huge opportunity to establish ourselves in the area. There is so much growth and change here. Battersea has changed so much and our little corner of the district is a great place for people to come to work and go out.

“Our research for trends in 2025 has shown that it is certainly looking a bit flat. In 2024, there was a lot happening in Europe with the Euros and Olympics. We are probably looking at last minute bookings in the city rather than the long-term bookings of 2024.”

Yetty Adepegba, Interim General Manager of Eden Court Care Home

“People are increasingly looking for excellent care for their loved ones within care homes that have premium quality facilities. The luxury care market is becoming very competitive and faces the challenge of rising costs of living but at Eden Court Retirement Village & Care Home we are ready to meet these as we are extremely confident in the product, environment and additional services that we provide. The increase in competition can only be good for the resident as they have more choice as well as reassurance of the best care.”

Ayca Vural-Cutts, Director of Studio AVC

“As we enter 2025, the design world embraces a balance of technology, sustainability, and inclusivity. Regenerative architecture leads the way, redefining sustainability through a reverse ecological damage approach rather than merely minimizing harm. Designers prioritize improving quality of life with greenery, natural light, and ventilation, while AI creates adaptive environments tailored to occupants' needs. Innovations in digital fabrication enable the use of sustainable materials.

“These trends reflect a commitment to crafting functional, beautiful, inclusive, and community-focused spaces, shaping a better future for people and the planet.”

Christopher Williams, Managing Director, Tiggo Care

“For 2025, I think the big trend in our sector will be increased demand for live-in care as the cost for residential care increases following changes to National Insurance contributions.”

Milly Larmer, Head of Partnerships, Walk the Walk

“Walk the Walk is a fantastic charity that’s all about raising money for cancer research and supporting those affected by the disease. Our events are about more than raising money, they’re about connecting people through health, fitness and giving back. The MoonWalk, where participants walk through the night wearing decorated bras, is a highlight of the UK fundraising scene. It’s a fun and empowering way for thousands to come together, celebrate achievements and make a difference for a great cause.

“From selling merchandise to partnering with socially responsible companies, we have lots of strategies up our sleeve! Looking ahead, new ideas like monthly giving programmes or peer-to-peer online campaigns could help us reach even more supporters. We are also working on hosting greener events, offering sustainable merchandise and reducing waste.

“With technology like AI and data analytics, Walk the Walk can connect with supporters in smarter, more meaningful ways. We are also exploring ways to use tech to make events even more exciting and engaging.”

If you're interested in partnering with Walk the Walk for the iconic MoonWalk London or want to enter a team, email: milly@walkthewalk.org or visit www.walkthewalk.org

David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce

“Our Quarterly Economic Forecast (QEF) expects the national insurance hike, alongside other growing cost pressures on business, to impact on several economic indicators over the coming months.

“GDP is expected to pick up slightly in 2025, but that’s likely to be down to more Government spending. Our research continues to show that most SMEs are not increasing investment, amidst an array of rising costs and admin burdens.

“The knock-on effect of rising business costs are likely to restrict wage growth in the short term and employment, as firms struggle to pass on costs and boost recruitment. With fears of a tariff war and continued trade barriers with the EU, international trade will be challenging for many firms.

“Our surveys already showed a fall in business confidence before October’s Budget. While the full impact of the Chancellor’s statement is yet to be seen, businesses face tough decisions as bills rise. It’s vital that business rate reform is accelerated and much anticipated strategies on industry, infrastructure and trade deliver at pace in the months to come.”