Summary
Every year brings new marketing trends - and not all of them deserve your time or budget. In 2025, Forbes identified 20 marketing and communications trends that aren't worth the hype. For Shopify brands, the lesson is clear: don't chase shiny objects. Focus instead on UGC-driven shoppable videos and proven strategies that increase conversion rate and build long-term brand equity.
The Problem With Hype Marketing
Marketers often jump on trends that sound innovative but fail to drive measurable ROI. Overhyped tactics can:
- Drain budgets
- Distract from core growth channels
- Create shallow engagement that doesn't convert
According to Forbes, trends like vanity metrics, gimmicky tech integrations, or surface-level personalization often underdeliver.
If you want to see how authentic strategies outperform gimmicks, check out this breakdown on choice overload and how it kills conversion rates.
Examples of Overhyped Trends in 2025
- AI without strategy - Tools for the sake of AI, without solving real business problems.
- Vanity influencer campaigns - Big names without authentic UGC connection.
- Over-polished branded content - Looks great but lacks trust.
- Empty metaverse activations - Buzz with no conversion path.
- Short-term trends without lasting value - Temporary spikes but no long-term lift in conversion rate.
Instead of chasing fads, Shopify brands should double down on UGC-powered experiences that shoppers already trust.
What Works Instead
- UGC as the foundation: Real customer content creates trust and engagement. See our blog on collaborative YouTube clips and what Shopify brands can learn.
- Video-first shopping: Shoppable videos replicate TikTok and Instagram experiences inside your store, where they actually convert.
- Personalization at scale: Instead of gimmicky "AI," use tools that optimize shopper journeys. Read more in our Shopify AI tools breakdown.
Final Take
Shopify brands can't afford to waste budget on hype. 2025 is about focusing on sustainable growth engines like UGC and shoppable video, not the latest flash-in-the-pan tactic.
Ready to ditch hype and build real conversion power? Start free with Tellos today →
FAQ
Q: What are the biggest overhyped marketing trends in 2025?
A: AI without strategy, vanity influencer campaigns, over-polished branded content, metaverse activations, and short-term gimmicks.
Q: What should Shopify brands focus on instead?
A: UGC, shoppable video, and AI-powered personalization that actually improves conversion rate.
Q: Why is UGC better than polished campaigns?
A: Shoppers trust authentic voices more than brand ads - and UGC consistently outperforms polished campaigns.
Q: Does Tellos support UGC-driven strategies?
A: Yes - Tellos automatically fetches, tags, and personalizes UGC into shoppable video feeds on your store.