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In small towns like Cody, business success often comes down to one thing: adaptability. The businesses that thrive are the ones that spot shifts in customer behavior early, try new ideas before everyone else, and lean into what makes their community special.

As we move into a new season, now is the time to look ahead at the trends shaping small-town business in 2025 and beyond. Over the next five weeks, we’ll explore five rising trends that every local business should be paying attention to — and how early adopters right here in Cody can turn them into growth opportunities.

It’s easy to think that “trends” only apply to big cities or global companies. But the truth is, small towns often feel the effects first — sometimes quietly, through changing customer habits, workforce shifts, or new technology.

By paying attention to these shifts, local businesses can get ahead of competitors, meet emerging customer expectations, and open new revenue streams. The Chamber’s role is to help you recognize those opportunities and connect you with the tools, training, and community to act on them.

  1. Local-First E-Commerce – Customers still want to shop local, but they also expect convenience. Local delivery, curbside pickup, and “buy online, pick up local” options are here to stay.
  2. Remote-Work Readiness – More people are working from anywhere, and that “anywhere” can be Cody. Businesses that serve this new workforce — from coffee shops to tech services — are positioned for growth.
  3. Experience-Driven Retail – Stores that offer experiences, community events, or local storytelling are becoming small-town favorites. It’s not just about what you sell, but how people feel when they walk through your door.
  4. Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship – Customers increasingly support businesses that stand for something — sustainability, heritage, or community values. Doing good is good for business.
  5. Service & Support Gaps – As towns grow and evolve, new needs emerge — from home maintenance to business consulting. Entrepreneurs who fill these gaps can build lasting, profitable ventures.

The Early Adopter Advantage

Being first to test a new idea, trend, or business model doesn’t just help your bottom line, it positions you as a leader in your community. When you try something innovative, others notice. You set the standard. You create momentum.

The Chamber will spend the next five weeks diving deeper into each of these five trends — offering real-world examples, insights from successful small-town entrepreneurs, and actionable ideas you can apply to your own business.

Because in a community like Cody, innovation doesn’t mean losing what makes us special — it means using creativity and local pride to build what’s next.

Stay tuned each week as we explore how small-town businesses are staying strong, staying local, and staying ahead.

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