In the heart of East Texas, where small businesses thrive on community support and word-of-mouth, the digital world is becoming just as important as a friendly handshake. More than ever, local businesses are turning to social media to grow, connect, and compete—not just with each other, but with big-box retailers and national chains.
The good news? In 2025, businesses right here in the Texas Forest Country are proving that with the right strategy, even the smallest brand can have a big impact online.
From Storefronts to Screens: How Local Shops Are Adapting
Walk through downtown Lufkin, Nacogdoches, or Livingston, and you’ll see businesses that have been staples in the community for years—family-run cafés, homegrown boutiques, and service providers who know their customers by name.
But step into their online world, and you’ll find something just as engaging:
- A boutique owner using Instagram Reels to showcase new arrivals, leading to sellouts within hours.
- A local bakery using TikTok to show behind-the-scenes clips of fresh pastries being made, drawing in customers from miles away.
- An IT company sharing customer success stories on Facebook, educating the community about MSP ROI.
It’s proof that social media isn’t just for big brands—it’s a game-changer for small businesses, too.
The Social Media Trends Transforming Local Businesses
So, what’s working for businesses in East Texas? Here are the trends shaping success stories right here in our backyard.
1. Video Is King
If there’s one thing that’s dominating social media, it’s video. Whether it’s a 15-second Instagram Reel, a before-and-after home remodel clip on TikTok, or a full-length Facebook Live Q&A, businesses that use video are seeing more engagement, more shares, and more customers walking through the door.
Case in Point: When a gym started posting quick, motivational workout tips on Instagram, their membership sign-ups doubled in just three months. Customers weren’t just watching—they were connecting, engaging, and showing up.
What You Can Do:
- Post short, engaging videos about your business—whether it’s a product demo, a team introduction, or a behind-the-scenes look.
- Keep it authentic. Customers don’t want polished, corporate-style ads—they want real stories from real people.
2. Local Businesses Are Selling Directly on Social Media ️
Forget sending customers to a website—social commerce is making it easier for people to buy directly from their favorite brands without ever leaving their social media feeds.
Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok now have built-in shopping features, and businesses that use them are seeing more sales than ever.
Case in Point: A boutique in Nacogdoches started using Instagram Shopping to showcase products, allowing customers to purchase with a single tap. The result? A 40% increase in online sales in just a few months.
What You Can Do:
- Set up Facebook and Instagram Shops to make browsing and buying seamless for customers.
- Host live shopping events where you showcase products and answer questions in real-time.
3. The Rise of Micro-Influencers
People trust people more than they trust ads. That’s why businesses are seeing success by partnering with local influencers—East Texas residents with engaged followings who can authentically promote brands.
Case in Point: A new coffee shop in the area partnered with five local food bloggers to promote their grand opening. Each influencer posted their experience, shared exclusive discounts, and encouraged their followers to visit. The shop saw record-breaking sales in their first week.
What You Can Do:
- Identify local influencers (they don’t need thousands of followers—just an engaged audience).
- Offer them an exclusive experience or product in exchange for a post or review.
4. Community Over Everything
In East Texas, relationships matter. Businesses aren’t just selling products—they’re part of a community. That’s why businesses that create online communities—through Facebook Groups, VIP memberships, or behind-the-scenes content—are thriving.
Case in Point: A Texas home improvement store created a Facebook Group for DIY home projects. They post weekly tips, answer questions, and encourage members to share their own projects. Not only has their store traffic increased, but they’ve built a loyal customer base that keeps coming back.
What You Can Do:
- Create a Facebook Group around your business niche (example: a gardening store could run a “Texas Gardening Tips” group).
- Provide exclusive content—whether it’s discounts, early access to sales, or educational tips.
The Future of Business in Texas Forest Country Is Digital
While small-town charm will always be part of what makes East Texas special, the reality is clear: businesses that embrace social media will have the edge in 2025 and beyond.
And the best part? You don’t need a huge marketing budget—you just need the right strategy.
That’s where MSGPR comes in. As a local marketing and PR agency, we help East Texas businesses:
✅ Create eye-catching social media content that attracts customers.
✅ Develop winning video strategies for Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
✅ Build online communities that keep customers coming back.
✅ Set up social media shopping for seamless e-commerce.
Ready to grow your business in 2025? Let’s make it happen—contact us today!
That’s a Wrap!
Social media is no longer optional—it’s essential for businesses of all sizes. And as many East Texas entrepreneurs are proving, the businesses that thrive are the ones that embrace the change.
So, whether you’re a restaurant owner in Lufkin, a retail shop in Nacogdoches, or a service provider in Livingston, there’s never been a better time to turn followers into customers.
And who knows? Your next big success story might just start with a single post.
