An evening of networking, insights, and search trends for 2025
Ahead of SMX Munich 2025, Peak Ace once again hosted an exclusive pre-conference dinner, bringing together industry leaders, digital marketing experts, and friends for an evening of great food, networking, and thought-provoking discussions.
This year’s dinner was more than just a warm-up for SMX – it was an opportunity to dive deep into the future of search. Our CEO, Bastian Grimm, took the stage to share exclusive insights into the key trends shaping search in 2025, sparking engaging discussions among attendees.
Key takeaways from Bastian Grimm’s talk
Bastian’s presentation highlighted the rapid transformation of search, emphasising five major trends that digital marketers need to watch:
1️⃣ Short-form video dominance – With attention spans shrinking, platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are becoming crucial for engagement. AI-driven video creation will revolutionise content production.
2️⃣ The rise of social commerce – Seamless shopping experiences on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are becoming the norm. Live shopping events and shoppable ads will continue to gain traction.
3️⃣ Omnichannel search strategies – Search is no longer just about Google. Gen Z and Millennials increasingly turn to TikTok, Instagram, and AI-driven assistants for discovery, requiring brands to adopt a cross-platform approach.
4️⃣ AI-driven discovery and competition – ChatGPT and other AI-driven platforms are changing how users find information, challenging traditional search engines. Gartner predicts that by 2026, 25% of the search market will be powered by AI-based search and chatbots.
5️⃣ The transition from mobile-first to agent-first – The way users interact with the internet is evolving beyond traditional UI. AI-powered personal assistants are reshaping search. This is moving us towards a future where search is integrated seamlessly into daily life.
Some delicious food and drink
Of course, no Peak Ace event would be complete without an exceptional dining experience! Guests were treated to a delicious selection of dishes and expertly crafted drinks, creating the perfect setting for engaging conversations. A huge thank you to the Little London team for their outstanding hospitality and top-notch catering, making the evening all the more special.
A big thank you!
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for this special evening. Connecting with peers, discussing industry trends, and sharing ideas in such a relaxed atmosphere was the perfect way to kick off SMX Munich. To those who attended, we hope you enjoy your Peak Ace goodie bags and enjoyed the SMX!
Missed the dinner? Don’t worry – we’re always available for exciting conversations about the future of search. Let’s continue the discussion via [email protected] or through our website!
