The Gold Coast isn’t just a postcard destination anymore, it’s one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions for small business. With more people relocating for the lifestyle, competition has hit an all-time high. From boutique wellness brands to booming property services, it’s a vibrant (and crowded) market.
But while the growth is exciting, it also brings challenges. Standing out is harder. Customer expectations are higher. And the digital world? Changing faster than ever.
As a local Gold Coast marketing agency, we’ve had a front-row seat to the shifts happening across service-based industries, hospitality, property, and health. Whether you’re just starting out or trying to level up, here are the top 7 marketing hurdles we’re seeing in 2025 and how to move past them.
1. A crowded local market
The challenge:
With new businesses launching daily across hospitality, wellness, retail and professional service industries (among others), everyone’s starting to sound… the same.
The fix:
A strong brand strategy is your best defence against blending in. That means defining your positioning, sharpening your message, and telling a story that actually means something to your customers. We’ve seen first-hand how a clear voice and thoughtful branding can shift a business from forgettable to kickass.
2. Competing in local search (SEO & Maps)
The challenge:
More businesses on the Gold Coast means more competition for those top Google spots, especially on mobile and “near me” searches.
The fix:
Local SEO is no longer optional. You need a well-optimised Google Business profile, strategic use of location-based keywords, and backlinks from trusted local sources. What works best is a mix of smart technical SEO paired with content that reflects the way real people search – and that’s where a local lens makes all the difference.
3. New residents, new expectations
The challenge:
People moving from cities like Sydney and Melbourne often bring big expectations; they want sleek branding, seamless experiences, and fast service.
The fix:
Upgrading your visuals, refining your digital presence, and making it easier for customers to engage online can go a long way. We’ve helped businesses modernise their brand without losing their local charm. Because it’s not about becoming a cookie-cutter version of a big-city brand, but evolving in a way that still feels true to your Gold Coast roots.
4. Hiring inexperienced marketing help
The challenge:
There’s no shortage of marketers out there, but many don’t have on-the-ground knowledge of the Gold Coast or an understanding of its unique customer base.
The fix:
Working with people who genuinely understand the local market can save you a lot of time, money, and miscommunication. It’s not just about being local, it’s about being connected. Whether it’s knowing what suburbs to target or how to speak your audience’s language, a grounded local perspective makes a huge difference.
5. Content that doesn’t connect
The challenge:
Stock photos, filler captions, and copy-paste templates won’t cut it anymore. Audiences are craving realness (and they can spot the difference).
The fix:
Strong content starts with strong storytelling. Think local faces, real customers, and messaging that reflects your values. Content needs to feel authentic and purposeful; that’s what builds connection and, ultimately, trust.
6. A website that looks fine… but doesn’t convert
The challenge:
Looks alone won’t get the job done. If your website doesn’t load quickly, isn’t mobile-friendly, or leaves users unsure what to do next, they’ll bounce – fast.
The fix:
Conversion-focused design is key. That means clear navigation, intentional user journeys, and calls-to-action that make sense. When your site balances creativity with usability, it doesn’t just impress, it performs.
7. No strategy behind the spend
The challenge:
Many businesses are still running ads or posting on social without a clear goal or understanding of what’s actually working.
The fix:
Whether it’s SEO, social, or paid campaigns, every dollar should be tied to a clear strategy — and backed by data. Set goals, track performance, and refine based on results. That’s how you turn marketing into growth, not guesswork.
If you’re navigating more competition, higher expectations, and a rapidly changing market, you’re in good company. But with the right strategy and the right support, there’s real opportunity to cut through.
At Lemon Tree, we’re proud to be a Gold Coast marketing agency that helps local businesses build lasting brands, meaningful connections, and smarter digital strategies. Whether you’re ready for a brand refresh or want to sharpen your digital presence, we’re here when you’re ready.
