November 29, 2024

Insights and Vision for 2025

Larry Futers
/
7 Communications
President & CEO

With 15 years behind us, we’re energized to shape the next chapter by reinforcing the pillars that have always defined us:

  1. Delivering Exceptional Work, Exceptionally Well. Our commitment to crafting standout ideas with unwavering precision remains as essential today as it was when we first started. The pursuit of excellence is at the heart of everything we do.
  2. Doing Great Work for Great People. Our passionate, detail-driven team thrives in a work environment that inspires them to reach their full potential. We’ve always put people first, even if it means walking away from business to protect that focus. The quality of our work environment is just as important as the quality of the work itself.
  3. Always Staying Two Steps Ahead. By fostering a culture of innovation, we don't just solve today's challenges—we anticipate tomorrow’s opportunities, ensuring we're always ahead of the curve for our clients.


As we begin the next chapter in our journey, here are some of our key focus areas for the year ahead and beyond:

1. Hyper-Personalization Through Data Mastery

To capture attention in a crowded market, brands will need to use advanced tools to create experiences that feel tailor-made. From personalized recommendations to bespoke customer journeys, brands must make every interaction relevant and meaningful. This is an area we will focus heavily within our own business in 2025. We will pilot a mix of personalized solutions designed to better connect with those most important to us and do it in a way that honours not only the uniqueness of each relationship, but also the tenets of our brand.

2. Unwavering Commitment to Authentic Purpose

For years, businesses have faced increased scrutiny from consumers, investors, and regulators to demonstrate measurable sustainability efforts. Circular economy models, carbon-neutral operations, and ethical supply chains have become standard, forcing companies to innovate or risk losing relevance. 2025 will represent a dichotomy for many brands as they balance what are expected to be a rapidly changing regulatory landscape in the U.S. that reduces the focus on sustainability while balancing public-facing narratives against those who demand transparency and sustainable action from their brands. While there may be less near-term pressure to achieve sustainability targets, history has proven that a balanced approach will weather best in a future court of public opinion. We will prioritize guiding our clients toward authentic and transparent communication regarding their sustainability goals through strategic consulting, content creation, monitoring trends and promoting innovation through creative storytelling.

3. Fostering Real Human Connections

I will be at CES in Las Vegas in January to calibrate to the latest product offerings and insights in our digital-first world. And while there will be a tremendous number of fresh ideas and insights available there, I’m confident that when we peel back all the layers of AI and remarkable innovation that we’ll witness, truly standing out in 2025 will require a return to emotional intelligence. The most successful brands will prioritize building real relationships through storytelling, authentic community engagement and personalized support. Being human and approachable will be a key differentiator and in-person experiences will continue to evolve for brands in their level of importance as they seek to create engagement beyond the screen.

Neon sign in orange hues spelling the word "change"

4. Speed, Agility, and Innovation

The pace of change is accelerating, and brands that can quickly adapt to emerging trends and consumer demands will thrive. Agility in launching new products, responding to cultural shifts, and embracing technological advancements will separate the leaders from the laggards. Our priority will be to systematically identify and capitalize on emerging cultural, technological and consumer trends for our clients, in addition to using real-time analytics to adapt campaigns quickly ensuring they stay relevant and impactful.

5. Strategic Collaborations and Co-Creation

Partnering with like-minded brands, creators, and communities will be essential. From co-branded products to collaborative campaigns, working together to amplify reach and creativity will help brands stand out in innovative ways. We have been investing heavily in this area and will continue to invest as we create strategic brand partnerships that bring together an alignment of best brands to accomplish common goals.

6. Flawless Execution Across All Channels

Discerning consumers expect more seamless and consistent experiences across digital and physical touch points. The most successful brands consistently every aspect of their customer’s experience journey, from website interactions to in-store service, leaving no room for error or inconsistency. To truly stand out in the luxury space, a brand must marry both creativity and flawless execution—a balance that only the most successful luxury brands have mastered as outlined in this piece I wrote last month.

7. Subscription Models Will Expand Across Industries

From transportation offerings to technology and new lifestyle services, ‘everything-as-a-service’ will become even more commonplace. This shift will be driven by consumers prioritizing convenience and access over ownership. Software as a Service (SaaS) businesses will have a leg up as once software has been funded, tested and rolled out, it can be sold to the next batch of customers for almost no additional cost. Adoption of authentic and value-laden subscription models for less expensive products (e.g., Coffee, personal care, wine & spirts, etc.) will always be easier and companies that sell expensive items will see slower adoption but will unlock unique models that add customer value and generate new streams of revenue. Our focus will not only be helping clients identify opportunities within their vertical but developing retention and referral programs to drive long-term success in subscription services.

As we move into the next chapter of our journey, one thing remains clear: the pillars that have guided us through our first 15 years are more than just ideals—they are the foundation of our success and the compass for our future. The road ahead is rich with opportunities to innovate, adapt, and lead with purpose. By staying true to our commitment to delivering exceptional work, fostering great relationships, and always thinking two steps ahead, we are poised to help our clients thrive in an ever-evolving world. Here’s to the next 15 years of bold ideas, flawless execution, and creating meaningful connections that leave a lasting impact. The best is yet to come.