As 2025 approaches, sustainability is emerging as the key trend for small businesses, reflecting a growing shift in consumer behaviour.
According to Pedddle, a platform connecting shoppers with independent markets and artisans, the concept of sustainability is set to influence business practices and purchasing decisions across industries.
Although sustainability has been a topic of discussion for years, the coming year will see a heightened focus on conscious consumerism. This shift is largely driven by growing environmental awareness and changing global economic conditions. With economic pressures and environmental issues in the spotlight, more consumers are making ethical choices in their purchasing habits, influencing how businesses operate.
Bianca, organiser of the eco-conscious Mindful Market, explains, “We are living through the real-time impacts of consumerism on our planet. Climate change is unavoidable, and with increased digital access to information, consumers are more aware of what the future holds and who is responsible for it. This is why people are boycotting certain brands and opting to support small businesses—they want to use their spending power to make a positive difference.”
Sustainability in Artisan Markets
For artisan markets, sustainability has become integral to every aspect of production. Pedddle, which specialises in connecting consumers with these markets, reports that stallholders are focusing on eco-friendly practices in how they create, package, and market their products. This trend includes upcycling, where old or leftover materials are transformed into new, unique items, reducing waste and promoting environmentally conscious craftsmanship.
Visitors to artisan markets can now find a wide variety of sustainable products. From jewellery crafted from sea glass and other natural materials to ethically produced clothing and homewares made from upcycled household items, artisans are demonstrating how sustainability can be both creative and impactful.
Sanjay from Made by Kacey, a company specialising in eco-friendly home decor, shares his perspective on this movement: “In home decor, we’re not just printing planters; we’re cultivating a sustainable future, one layer at a time. Our additive manufacturing process mirrors nature, creating only what’s needed, when it’s needed, in a style that’s personal and environmentally responsible. It’s more than made-to-order—it’s made-for-you, made-for-Earth.”
Supporting Local Artisans and Sustainability
Pedddle’s platform plays a vital role in connecting consumers with local artisans who prioritise sustainability. By supporting these independent creators, shoppers contribute to a growing green revolution, purchasing products that not only reflect high craftsmanship but also embody a commitment to environmental responsibility.
With sustainability poised to shape both crafting and consumer behaviours in the coming years, Pedddle remains at the forefront of this movement. The platform continues to provide a space for artisans and buyers to engage in ethical, eco-friendly practices, ensuring that the future of small businesses is both creative and sustainable.
