In a revealing report released on March 19, 2025, Algolia, known for its cutting-edge AI search technology, outlined critical trends impacting the B2B ecommerce landscape. The annual B2B Ecommerce Site Search Trends Report, powered by insights from Escalent, highlights how artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping online business strategies.
According to the report, 67% of B2B companies participating in the survey express enthusiasm for AI technology, asserting that its potential has transcended initial hype. The clear takeaway is that AI search capabilities are no longer optional; they are essential for driving growth and improving the customer experience in a highly competitive market.
"Amid economic uncertainties, the B2B ecommerce sector is harnessing the power of AI search and discovery to elevate customer experience and drive business growth. Our findings show that 67% of respondents are not only excited about AI technology, but also believe we’ve passed the hype stage. AI search has now become a foundational requirement for any B2B ecommerce strategy," remarked Michelle Adams, President of Field Operations at Algolia.
The key findings from the 2025 B2B Ecommerce Site Search Trends Report indicate a significant shift in focus from merely increasing sales to prioritizing customer-centric experiences. The research revealed that business leaders are now more concerned with meeting rising customer expectations (37%), supporting growth and scalability (36%), and enhancing the online customer experience (34%). This evolution suggests that businesses are recognizing the necessity of adapting to modern consumer demands.
Interestingly, site search and discovery functionalities have emerged as the leading application of AI search technology, increasing by 7% year-over-year (44% compared to 37%). This marks a noteworthy transition among B2B ecommerce leaders as they shift their strategic priorities.
Despite the recognized importance of AI, there's a notable disparity in its adoption. As of the report's release, 67% of the surveyed B2B ecommerce firms are actively using AI and machine learning to spur growth. However, only 41% of these companies can claim to be fully operational in their AI initiatives. This underlines a significant gap in the market—while enthusiasm for AI is high, operational maturity lags behind.
Moreover, 84% of interviewees considered AI to have evolved from a luxury to a vital necessity. Looking ahead, two-thirds (66%) of respondents revealed plans to increase their AI investments within the next one to two years, signaling a clear trend towards deeper integration of AI solutions in the B2B ecommerce sector.
Erin Smith, Vice President and Global Head of Technology Operations at Escalent, added to the dialogue: "The latest B2B Ecommerce Site Search Trends Report highlights a shift towards AI technology. Respondents are seeking solutions that address specific business challenges and deliver tangible results, reflecting a more strategic and intentional approach to AI implementation." This statement reinforces the idea that companies are no longer just experimenting with AI; they are actively integrating it into their core business functions.
This report underscores the growing recognition that AI-powered search not only enhances operational efficiencies but also plays a pivotal role in shaping customer experiences. A more nuanced understanding of how AI can serve their needs is evident among businesses, driving investment toward technologies that yield measurable outcomes.
The survey also documented that respondents are increasingly aligned with the need to adopt technology that meets customer expectations and supports growth dynamics. As they increasingly pivot towards a customer-first approach, the imperative to utilize AI-powered tools will only intensify, making future investments not just favorable but essential.
In conclusion, the findings from the 2025 B2B Ecommerce Site Search Trends Report reveal a transformative moment for B2B companies leveraging AI. As they navigate economic uncertainties and enhance the customer journey, the criticality of AI search and discovery becomes apparent. The data suggests a clear path forward, where AI is not merely an add-on, but a fundamental aspect of effective B2B ecommerce strategies. For businesses wishing to stay competitive and relevant, investing in AI search capabilities is no longer just a trend; it is a necessity.
