Another Year Over

We are fast approaching the end of the year, and this will be our final Tuesday Tune-up for 2024. And what a year it's been. And as we take a quick look at 2024, this is an indication of the world of challenge and more importantly, opportunity that awaits us for 2025.

Over the last year we’ve witnessed:

It’s not Personal – it’s just Politics…. 2024 has been a political whirlwind, dubbed the “Election Extravaganza” with over 70 countries representing 41% of the global population heading to the polls. Highlights include the dramatic US presidential race, and right-wing gains in EU elections - all against a backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions from Ukraine to US-China rivalries, and most recently events in Syria.
It Really is a Small World After All….. The world’s economy faced headwinds in 2024, with a slowdown in growth, tighter credit conditions, and recession fears in major markets like the USA and China. On the bright side, renewable energy passed a critical milestone, generating over one-third of global power, while the mining sector saw renewed investment amid rising demand for critical minerals.
Moore’s Law is Doing Just Fine…. AI took centre stage in 2024, with intelligent assistants evolving from simple bots to sophisticated tools reshaping industries. However, this progress came with increased focus on data privacy and cybersecurity, as businesses scrambled to keep pace with advancing tech threats.
Is it Cooler to WFH? Climate activism reached new heights in 2024, fuelled by record-breaking El Niño-driven temperatures and intensifying environmental concerns. Meanwhile, the evolution of workplace culture continued, with remote work debates and tech-driven wellness trends reshaping how we work and live.
Even Culture is Going Global now…. From music feuds like Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar to the rise of new pop icons, 2024’s entertainment world was vibrant and dynamic. On the global stage, the Paris Olympics captivated audiences, with athletes like Simone Biles inspiring millions and redefining cultural icons in sport.

The business world has been no less dramatic:

Siri finally gets a brain? In 2024, generative AI and advanced technologies have become indispensable tools in the business tech stack. From personalised customer interactions to data-driven insights and consumer trend analysis, these innovations are reshaping industries and redefining how work gets done.
Markets out of Balance. Economic pressures and rising inflation presented significant challenges for consumers and businesses in 2024, with costs of materials and staffing climbing sharply. Corporate travel budgets have tightened, and nearly 60% of businesses now identify inflation as a top threat.
Kermit, it’s Getting Easier to be Green. Sustainability evolved into a non-negotiable business priority in 2024, with 90% of leaders recognising its critical importance. From eco-friendly practices to certifications like ‘B Corporation,’ companies are aligning operations with environmental and social responsibility.
Culture (still) Eats Strategy for Breakfast. The hybrid work model continued to gain traction in 2024, with adoption rising from 42% in 2021 to an anticipated 81% by the end of this year. While some companies encourage office returns, the shift has expanded talent pools, enhanced work-life balance, and reshaped organisational culture.
They May Not Always be Right, but you Gotta Love ‘Em. Businesses in 2024 doubled down on customer experience, driven by rising customer acquisition costs and the need for differentiation. Nearly half of companies prioritised tools like AI and automation to streamline service while ensuring a human touch in digital interactions.

At Kingsford, we have been busy too. We worked with dozens of really cool clients including those in electric monorail mine haulage, solar paint, bio-mass power generation, smart traffic solutions, super-efficient sealing systems, cybersecurity, medical AI systems, hydrogen powered cranes, sequestered carbon, acoustic sensors, firefighting drones, and locally in Ottawa The Canadian Tulip festival and Canada’s most famous food- BeaverTails.

We really love what we do – and meeting so many high energy, innovative people with awesome products and services is really a bonus!

And what of 2025?

Well, if it's as impactful as 2024, and chances are it will be, then it's certainly going to be 'interesting'. There is so much uncertainty around at the moment - geopolitically, economically, environmentally - and probably quite a few other '-allys' to boot. And where there is uncertainty, there is risk, but there is also opportunity - LOTS of it. Here’s what we see…

Embracing AI. The rise of generative AI offers SMEs a chance to punch above their weight in marketing, decision-making, and efficiency.
Resilient Supply Chains. With lessons learned from past disruptions, there’s room for companies to rethink logistics and supplier relationships, building in flexibility for future shocks.
Consumer Behaviour. Shifts in spending patterns towards experiences, health, and sustainability create opportunities for SMEs to innovate and capture new markets.
Geopolitical Stability (or Instability). While uncertainty can be daunting, businesses that stay agile and responsive can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
Sustainability Investment. Government incentives and consumer demand for greener options mean there’s never been a better time to embrace sustainable practices.

And now, we are shutting down till the New Year and we're looking forward to a little rest, reflection, and, of course, the odd mince pie, single malt (etc..). Have a great Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus, Yule, Newtonmas, or Holiday time, make time to relax, mentally recharge, and have LOADS of fun.

See you on the other side,

Andrew and Graham