Boost sales with these essential paint tips & trends

The paint industry in 2025 is witnessing significant transformation driven by technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, and evolving consumer preferences. What has been evident is paint demand for various purposes. Be it for painting buildings, exterior and interior design, paint continues to be a sought-after product both industrially and commercially.

Importance of paint and primers

When choosing the right paint for a project, understanding the types of paint available is crucial.

Here are two most common paint types that retailers need to know to help their customers make informed decisions when purchasing paint:

The two most common paint types available in the market are water-based and oil-based paints. Water-based paints, often referred to as latex paints, are more environment-friendly, easy to clean, and quick to dry. These paints are ideal for most indoor applications and areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens. Oil-based paints, on the other hand, are more durable and provide a smoother finish, making them suitable for surfaces like doors and trims. However, they take longer to dry and require mineral spirits for cleanup.

While choosing the kind of paint suitable for the task at hand, it is important for retailers to advise their customers on the critical role that primers play for setting the foundation for a smooth and even finish.

Primers are designed to adhere to surfaces and provide a base for the paint to stick to, enhancing the durability and appearance of the paint job. Various types of primers available in the market, including all-purpose, stain-blocking, and bonding primers.

Selecting the right primer depends on the project requirements. Educating customers on the importance of priming can prevent issues such as peeling or uneven coverage.

Tips to choosing the right paint

Here are some key tips retailers can use to guide customers on how to select the most appropriate paint for their project:

• Retailers should recommend that customers consider the surface they will be painting (eg, wood, metal, drywall, brick). Different surfaces may require specific types of paint for optimal adhesion and finish.

• Use paint samples to show your customers how different colours look in specific lighting conditions.

• Enquire on what type of finish the customer desires (e.g, matte, satin, semi-gloss, gloss) based on the desired look and durability.

• Glossy finishes are more durable and easier to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.

• Help the customer to determine whether the paint will be used indoors or outdoors.

• Exterior paints are formulated to withstand weather conditions, while interior paints are designed for easy cleaning and durability within the home.

• Help your customer choose between water-based (latex) and oil-based paints

Paint and primers to stock

To see some products that retailers can consider stocking to cater for their customer needs: