5 Challenges Facing Training Providers in 2025 (and How to Overcome Them)

The training industry has undergone significant changes over recent years, and as we approach 2025, training providers are navigating a mix of opportunities and challenges. Drawing on insights from the 2024 Training Industry Benchmark Report, here are the five most pressing challenges training providers face in 2025 - and actionable strategies to address them.

1. Lack of Resources

The Challenge:

Lack of resources was identified as the top challenge for training providers in 2024, cited by 45% of respondents. This includes insufficient staffing, infrastructure, and time, which together hinder the ability to grow and maintain quality services.

How to Overcome:

• Optimise Resource Allocation: Conduct operational audits to identify inefficiencies and focus on high-priority areas.
• Leverage Technology: Maximise your resources with Essential Training Hub, a platform that amplifies your reach and streamlines operations. By showcasing SEO-optimised course listings to a national audience, it helps training providers connect with more learners and industry professionals. Build credibility, expand your network, and make the most of your existing resources to drive growth and efficiency.
• Expand Digital Offerings: eLearning and blended learning options continue to grow, with 70% of providers citing them as a focus for the future. These methods reduce dependency on physical resources and expand reach.

2. Rising Operational Costs

The Challenge:

38% of training providers highlighted rising costs as a significant challenge, driven by inflation and higher expenses for venues, technology, and materials.

How to Overcome:

• Enhance Business Visibility: Use robust reporting tools to monitor course profitability and identify areas where costs can be cut.
• Adopt Cost-Effective Solutions: Explore cloud-based platforms and modern digital tools that reduce overhead without sacrificing quality.
• Consider Virtual and Hybrid Models: Online self-service learning, which grew by 14% last year, offers scalable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional delivery methods.

3. The Cost-of-Living Crisis

The Challenge:

The cost-of-living crisis jumped straight into the top three challenges in 2024, with 31% of training providers naming it as a concern. Rising personal costs for clients have reduced demand for non-essential training services.

How to Overcome:

• Market Value-Driven Training: Clearly communicate the tangible ROI of your courses to potential learners and corporate clients.
• Flexible Payment Options: Offer tiered pricing or payment plans to make training more accessible.
• Boost Word-of-Mouth Marketing: This remains the most effective marketing channel for five consecutive years, with 41% of providers relying on it. Collect testimonials and encourage satisfied learners to share their experiences.

4. Lack of Time to Complete Tasks

The Challenge:

Time constraints remain a persistent issue, cited by 29% of training providers. Over-reliance on manual processes and outdated tools often exacerbates this challenge.

How to Overcome:

• Effortless Course Promotion and Management: Streamline your daily operations with Essential Training Hub’s advanced tools designed to promote your courses and connect with learners on a national scale. Easily manage course listings and updates with features like CSV uploads for course dates and bulk editing options. Focus on expanding your impact and growing your audience while the platform simplifies the process.
• Streamline Course Creation: Creating course material was named the most time-consuming task by 53% of respondents. Consider reusing templates and leveraging ready-made digital tools to reduce this burden.
• Invest in Fit-for-Purpose Systems: Spreadsheets are still used by a quarter of providers but are inefficient compared to training management software, which has grown in adoption by 16%.

5. Increased Competition

The Challenge:

Increased competition rose by 5% compared to last year, reflecting the industry’s growth and heightened challenges in standing out.

How to Overcome:

• Differentiate Through Quality: With 76% of providers prioritising customer satisfaction as a key metric, focus on delivering outstanding experiences that generate repeat business.
• Use Effective Marketing Channels: While 48% of learners use search engines to find courses, only 7% of providers cite SEO as a focus. Prioritise improving your website’s visibility. Using platforms like Essential Training Hub ensures your courses gain visibility through content which has already been SEO-optimised, all handled by our marketing team.
• Leverage Networking Opportunities: Expand your reach by showcasing your courses on the Essential Training Hub, a platform trusted by thousands of industry professionals. Its national audience and collaborative sales efforts ensure that your offerings are prominently featured.
• Enhance Credibility: Join a network of quality-assured providers through the Hub, helping you build trust and attract more learners. The platform’s emphasis on quality standards ensures your courses stand out as reliable and effective.

Conclusion
The training industry continues to evolve, presenting challenges that require innovative solutions. By leveraging technology, focusing on customer needs, and adopting efficient practices, providers can navigate 2025’s challenges with confidence. Platforms like Essential Training Hub empower training providers to enhance visibility, streamline operations, and connect directly with learners, ensuring long-term success in an ever-changing landscape.

Stay proactive, and embrace the opportunities that 2025 will undoubtedly bring.