Looking ahead to 2025, digital marketing will once again be crucial for small businesses aiming to thrive, so we asked Mark Skinner, founder of local digital marketing experts Logica, to talk us through the importance of optimising your strategy for the upcoming year and how they can lend their expertise…
With nearly all consumers (98%) relying on the internet to locate local businesses, it’s never been more important for Sheffield’s small businesses to adapt their strategies to remain visible and competitive. The growing dependence on digital channels, particularly local search, offers an excellent opportunity for small enterprises to connect with customers, boost visibility and increase footfall through strategic online efforts.
The digital journey of consumers often begins with online search, and our data shows that local businesses must be discoverable to stay competitive. When 76% of people who conduct a local search on their mobile devices visit a business within a day, the stakes are clear.
Beyond mobile, 46% of all searches are specifically looking for local businesses, and 60% of users contact these businesses directly from search results. This data emphasises the importance of an optimised digital presence, especially through search engine optimisation (SEO), social media engagement, and responsive design.
Through a recent project with a local hair and beauty salon, we illustrated how small businesses could benefit from professional digital marketing expertise. Our team helped the salon improve its website to rank for over 250 relevant search terms, driving a 141% increase in traffic from Google alone. By using targeted SEO practices, the salon’s website now attracts more local searches and translates them into real-world appointments, proving that optimised digital visibility can make a tangible difference in growth.
The key to Logica’s success lies in our local knowledge and customer-centred approach. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all model, we design tailored solutions for each business, considering specific needs, audiences, and goals. With services like Google My Business optimisation and localised content strategies, Logica ensures that businesses not only show up in searches but also stand out.
This approach positions businesses on Google’s Map Pack, which attracts 42% of local searchers and increases clicks for location-based queries. Additionally, navigation and map apps – now driving between 30-40% of local business discovery – make local SEO an even greater necessity.
For Sheffield’s small business owners, digital marketing offers a level playing field, especially against larger competitors. Cost-effective strategies such as focusing on local SEO, maintaining active social media profiles, and gathering positive customer reviews can significantly enhance brand visibility. In fact, around 97% of consumers read online reviews before deciding to engage with a local business, making reputation management a critical component of digital success.
In 2025, small businesses in Sheffield have the chance to leverage digital marketing not only to survive but to thrive. Localised marketing, optimised digital presence, and a customer-centric approach are no longer optional – they’re essential for sustainable growth and a robust customer base.
To find out how Logica could help your business revolutionise their digital marketing strategies, head to their website here.
