STAFF REPORTER
THE funeral services industry is poised for significant changes in 2025, driven by digital transformation, sustainability, and evolving consumer preferences. CEO of Abaveleli Funeral Services, Nwabisa Saul, shared her insights on these emerging trends and how her company is preparing to meet the future demands of the industry.
“The funeral services industry is indeed on the cusp of a digital transformation. By 2025, I envision funeral homes like Abaveleli Funeral Services leveraging technology to enhance the overall experience for families,” she said.
Saul outlined several ways technology will be integrated into funeral services:
• Online platforms for planning and arranging funerals
• Virtual experiences for memorial services
• Personalised digital tributes and memorials
• Streamlined communication channels for families and loved ones
“Our staff will undergo training to ensure they’re equipped to support families in navigating these new technologies,” she added.
As environmental concerns grow, Saul predicts a significant increase in demand for eco-friendly funeral options.
“We are committed to sustainability. We’re exploring partnerships with eco-friendly suppliers and investing in staff training on green funeral practices," Saul expressed. Abaveleli Funeral Services is preparing to offer biodegradable caskets and urns, green burial sites and natural cemeteries and cremation alternatives. Consumer behaviours are evolving, and Saul anticipates these changes will impact the funeral services industry.
“There is an increased demand for personalised, non-traditional funeral services,” she notes. “We are seeing a growing interest in celebration-of-life events rather than traditional funerals.”
Saul said there will be greater emphasis on pre-planning and pre-paying for funeral services. More families are seeking support for grief counselling and bereavement services
“To remain relevant, Funeral Services will have to invest in staff training to address these changing needs. "The industry is currently expanding beyond the traditional service offerings to include non-traditional options, like celebration-of-life events, and enhancing pre-planning and counselling services," Saul concluded. .