Retail Sales Take a Hit in December: Here’s How to Find the Marketers Still Investing in 2025

For agencies and tech partners relying on retail success, the challenge lies in finding the companies and marketers who are still prioritising growth and investment in 2025.

That’s where Honch can make all the difference.

We track and profile over 45,000 marketers in the retail sector—from global powerhouses to mid-sized disruptors and fast-growing startups. With our insights, you’ll know exactly where to focus your efforts. Here's a closer look at the opportunities retail offers in 2025:

5,069 New Marketing Appointments in Retail Last Year

Retail continues to lead the way in new marketing hires, ranking among the top five sectors for investment. These new hires often bring fresh strategies, new supplier relationships, and increased budgets. Additionally, over 3,500 marketers were promoted into higher-level roles with greater decision-making power.

Key Growth Segments to Watch

Major Brands

Big-name retailers are still making bold moves. Last year, 2,135 new marketers joined top-tier brands, including:

• Unilever: New Growth Marketing Director
• THG Beauty: New CMO
• Vision Express: New Marketing Director

Mid-Sized Retailers

Mid-sized brands continue to thrive, with 1,073 new marketing appointments. Notable hires include:

• Kobi McCardle: Marketing Director at Gear4music
• Jessica Chadney: Strategic Marketing Director at Nails.INC

Fast-Growing SMBs

SMBs remain the backbone of the retail sector. Companies like Ruuby, Bathroom City, and Vampire Vape expanded their marketing teams significantly in the past year, creating fresh opportunities for partnerships.

E-Commerce Specialists

E-commerce brands are leading innovation and growth in retail. Key recent appointments include:

• Zelens: Erin Murrihy, Head of E-Commerce
• AllSaints: Louise Hayward, Head of E-Commerce
• Susanne Kaufmann: Donata Rotunno, Global E-Commerce Director

What’s Next for Retail in 2025?

Despite challenges, retail brands are adapting and investing in talent to navigate the evolving landscape. Major hires are already underway at companies like Adanola, Debenhams, Kimberly-Clark, Decathlon, Holland & Barrett, and Oh Polly.

Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with these decision-makers. Unlock detailed insights into every retail and consumer goods marketer with a free trial of Honch today.

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