Top Business Themes in 2025

Based on current trends and interests, here are five themes our clients are talking about:

1. Embracing Generative AI: Transforming Canadian Businesses

Generative AI is revolutionizing industries by enabling machines to create content, designs, and solutions previously thought to be exclusive to human creativity. Canadian businesses are increasingly exploring how generative AI can enhance product development, marketing strategies, and operational efficiency. Consulting firms play a pivotal role in guiding organizations through the integration of these advanced technologies, ensuring alignment with business objectives and ethical considerations. By leveraging generative AI, companies can gain a competitive edge, foster innovation, and streamline processes, positioning themselves for success in a rapidly evolving market.

2. Navigating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Imperatives

ESG factors have become critical considerations for businesses aiming to achieve sustainable growth and meet stakeholder expectations. Canadian companies are under increasing pressure to demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and robust governance practices. Consulting firms assist clients in developing comprehensive ESG strategies, from assessing carbon footprints to implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives. By integrating ESG principles, organizations can enhance their reputations, attract investment, and ensure long-term viability in a conscientious marketplace.

3. The Future of Work: Adapting to Hybrid Models

The traditional workplace is undergoing a transformation, with hybrid work models becoming the norm. Canadian businesses are tasked with balancing remote and in-office work arrangements to maintain productivity and employee satisfaction. Consulting firms provide expertise in redesigning organizational structures, implementing digital collaboration tools, and fostering cultures that support flexibility. By embracing hybrid work models, companies can access a broader talent pool, reduce overhead costs, and promote a healthier work-life balance for employees.

4. Leveraging Data Analytics for Strategic Decision-Making

In an era where data is abundant, the ability to analyze and interpret information is crucial for informed decision-making. Canadian organizations are investing in data analytics to gain insights into customer behavior, market trends, and operational performance. Consulting firms assist clients in developing data strategies, implementing analytics platforms, and training staff to utilize data effectively. By harnessing the power of data analytics, businesses can make strategic decisions that drive growth, optimize operations, and enhance customer experiences.

5. Enhancing Cybersecurity in a Digital-First World

As digital transformation accelerates, cybersecurity has become a top priority for Canadian businesses. The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats necessitate robust security measures to protect sensitive information and maintain operational integrity. Consulting firms offer services in risk assessment, security architecture design, and incident response planning. By proactively addressing cybersecurity, organizations can safeguard their assets, comply with regulatory requirements, and build trust with customers and partners.

These themes reflect the evolving landscape of business in Canada and underscore the areas where consulting expertise is most sought after to drive innovation, sustainability, and resilience.

Services

Arcus offers clients a unique combination of fact-based industry knowledge and superior functional expertise. Our consultants have an average of over 22 years experience, twice the industry average. Find out more about our growth, change management and  operations services.

At Arcus we believe that a strategy is only as good as the results it delivers. Strategic outcomes are most predictable and effective when companies develop a portfolio of initiatives that are aligned with core competencies and aligned activities enable the company to offer a superior value proposition.

Please contact Arcus for case studies and to discuss how we can help you.

Service coverage

The variety, breadth, and depth of the projects where Arcus can be a resource are made unique by each client’s specific needs. By providing a very small sample of projects we’ve completed, we can help you understand how and when to use our services. Visit the links below to find out more about a specific problem or opportunity you would like to address.

Below is a sample of the range of services that Arcus has provided to clients.

  • A survey of 2,350 consumers and 1,320 business leaders for feedback on sustainability trends
  • Architecting a multi-year change strategy for a Fortune 500 company
  • Mentoring a CEO on organizational change
  • Excellence transformation of a leading B2B services company
  • Creating a new sales deployment model for a healthcare company
  • Developing a position evaluation and compensation model for a professional medical association   
  • Improving services to customer segments by deepening their understanding of customer attitudes

“Arcus manages to consistently deliver tangible results on market research and strategy projects. They combine deep business expertise, powerful research capabilities, and innovative thinking to deliver substantial value.”

– Vice President, Nikon

Data Dashboards
  • Empower your decision-making with comprehensive, trusted data.
  • Gain actionable insights with access to real-time Canadian consumer, business and sector spending and location data.
  • Inform economic policy, investments, sales deployment and strategic plans by looking at trends across different industries and regions in Canada.
  • Influence your businesses’ future growth plans by understanding consumer behaviour

Learn more.

Media Coverage

Arcus has been quoted extensively in media on a range of topics and can offer research studies, insights and ideas. Here are some examples from the Globe and Mail, BNN, CTV, Global TV and others.