It’s 2025. So, if your retail brand is not on social media, then you might as well be invisible. Social platforms are no longer just “nice-to-haves;” they have become full-blown business powerhouses. From TikTok-fueled impulse buys to influencer shoutouts that sell out stock overnight, social media marketing is now the playbook for retail success. Let’s break down how retail businesses are crushing it online this year. So, what’s new, hot, and worth trying?
The Numbers Don’t Lie
First, let’s start with some quick stats to paint the picture:
- There are 5.22 billion social media users in 2025. This is over 60% of the global population.
- People are now using an average of 6.8 platforms and spending about 2+ hours a day scrolling.
- TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts, and even Telegram are seeing explosive growth in ad adoption.
If you are a retailer, that is a lot of eyeballs potentially landing on your content, your ads, and your products.
Short-Form Video Is Still King
If you are not doing short-form video content in 2025, you are missing out big time. Most users say they prefer videos that are under 30 seconds. This is exactly why TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are so effective. Not only are these bite-sized videos super engaging, but they convert. According to recent research, 85% of shoppers are more likely to buy after watching a product video. That is why so many brands are ditching long-form content and going all-in on short, punchy visuals.
Pro tip: Keep it fast, fun, and show the product in action. This is especially true if it solves a real-life problem.
Telegram Ads Are on the Rise
You might be surprised by this one, but Telegram is quietly becoming a solid player in the retail ad space. The solution has rolled out broadcast-style ads that let brands target users based on their interests and the channels they follow. It’s a more private, personalized experience. That is exactly what Gen Z and Millennials are into right now. No spammy vibes, just clean, focused messages.
Besides that, the CTR on Telegram ads is way higher than on Facebook or Twitter in some industries, especially tech, fashion, and wellness. So yeah, Telegram isn’t just for crypto bros anymore. It is where brands can build deeper, more personal connections.
Influencers Still Rule (But Micro Is Mighty)
Influencer marketing is just thriving. What is more, it is expected to hit $32.55 billion this year, with Instagram and TikTok leading the charge. But the real MVPs? Micro-influencers (those with under 100K followers). These creators are killing it with higher engagement rates and super loyal audiences. Retailers love them because they are more affordable and often feel way more genuine than big-name celebs. In 2025, brands are seeing better engagement with micro-influencers compared to traditional ads. Not bad, right?
Social Commerce Is No Longer Optional
In 2025, buying directly from social platforms will be possible. It is expected. Shoppable posts, live-streaming events, and one-click checkouts are now common across TikTok, Instagram, and even Pinterest. Here is a wild stat: 60% of users have made at least one purchase via a social checkout this year. And in the UK, TikTok is now one of the top 5 beauty retailers, with a product sold every second via TikTok Shop UK. Live shopping events, in particular, are booming.
Gen Z Is All About “Realness” (and Dupes)
Speaking of Gen Z, they have made it crystal clear: they want authentic content, not overly polished ads. They will take a TikTok haul video over a high-end commercial any day. Also, they are not shy about buying dupes (affordable alternatives to luxury items). A recent report shows that 70% of Gen Z buyers sometimes or always choose cheaper versions of popular products. That is why brands are leaning into “everyday luxury” campaigns and featuring user-generated content that feels honest, unfiltered, and relatable.
Augmented Reality Is a Game-Changer
Want to let customers try before they buy? Enter augmented reality. Brands are using AR on Instagram and Snapchat to let users virtually try on clothes, shoes, makeup, and more. All that is possible without leaving their sofa. It’s interactive, fun, and super helpful. Plus, it boosts conversion rates by removing that “will this actually look good on me?” doubt. Combined with powerful social media analytics, AR also gives retailers insane amounts of user data.
What This All Means for Retailers
Social media is becoming a full-blown commerce engine. If you are a retail brand, you have more opportunities than ever to build genuine connections, create viral moments, drive real sales, and test and scale ideas fast. But here’s the catch: you have to stay agile. Algorithms change; trends come and go, and consumer expectations are higher than ever. The brands that are winning are the ones that stay curious, take risks, and let their audiences lead the way.
