Businesses die constantly.

Nearly 70% of businesses fail within 10 years. The business world is relentless—only the adaptable survive. If you’re not evolving, you’re falling behind, and the pace of change is accelerating.

65.3% – Businesses That Fail Within 10 years.*

By identifying long-term trends, we aim to help businesses—whether startups or established organizations—stay relevant, resilient, and ready for the future. Let’s explore the three macro trends that will define the next five years of business.

We are all at the forefront of embracing AI and automation across our personal and professional spaces. They are not just worthy buzzwords, but tools that are automating mundane tasks, improving decision-making, and enhancing customer experiences.

72% – Organizations That Have Adopted AI In At Least 1 Business Function as of March 2024*

The growth of these tools in almost every aspect of our lives is inevitable, and how we interact with one another will continue to change.

Remote work opportunities will also continue to increase—as will digital nomad lifestyles, with young adults especially seeking flexible arrangements that support location-independent lifestyles and greater autonomy.

Expect to See More:

• Lean Business Teams
• AI-Powered Content Creation
• Voice-Activated Interfaces
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
• AI-Driven Customer Support
• Digital Simulations (Digital Twins) in Manufacturing and Design
• Digital Nomadism
• Smart Home & Office Tech

Practical Tips:

• Adopt AI Tools. Start small with tools like AI-powered chatbots or scheduling assistants.
• Explore Remote Work Solutions. Invest in digital collaboration tools to support flexible work arrangements.
• Upgrade Your Smart Office Tech. Consider tools like IoT devices to improve operational efficiency.

Economic inequality and growing social awareness are reshaping consumer behavior and workplace priorities. Ethical consumption and entrepreneurial ventures are on the rise as people seek to align their financial choices with their values.

>90% – The Top 10% of American Households Owns More Than 90% of All U.S. Stocks

More will feel disillusioned by the traditional workplace and take their quest for financial independence into their own hands, leaving voids for talent in larger organizations. Ethical brands and sustainable products will be increasingly preferred, but they will continue to face production challenges due to existing market dynamics and the growing concentration of wealth.

Expect to See More:

• Recruiting Talent at a Premium Cost
• Entrepreneurial Ventures
• Social Activism and Advocacy
• Impact Investing
• Decentralized Finance (DeFi)
• Local and Hyper-Local Markets
• Crowdfunding

Practical Tips:

• Invest in Sustainability. Shift toward eco-friendly practices and transparent supply chains.
• Support Employee Entrepreneurship. Offer mentorship or intrapreneurship opportunities to retain top talent.
• Build Ethically. Make corporate social responsibility a key part of your business, brand, and product strategies.

We will continue to contend with increases in depression and anxiety alongside longer life expectancies. With the 65+ age group becoming the majority of our population, the desire to stay physically active, and mentally sharp will grow.

~74% – Adolescents Experience Clinically Significant Depression or Anxiety*

Businesses that prioritize employee well-being and cater to health-conscious consumers will gain a competitive edge.

Expect to See More:

• Prioritization of Self-Care
• Fitness & Health Tracking Wearables
• Biohacking
• Telemedicine Services
• AI Therapists
• Corporate Wellness Programs

Practical Tips:

• Promote Workplace Wellness: Offer mental health days, counseling resources, and flexible schedules.
• Engage in Health Tech: Partner with wearable tech companies or telemedicine services.
• Leverage Biohacking Trends: If it makes sense for your business, introduce products or services that cater to health-optimization enthusiasts.

The future of business belongs to those who can adapt.

These three trends—concerning our relationships, economy, and health—are not just opportunities; they’re imperatives. The question is, how will you respond?

Start by embracing change and making deliberate choices to align your business with the future. The road ahead is challenging, but it’s also full of potential.

*Sources: Commerce Institute, McKinsey, Visual Capitalist, Pharmacy Times