The consulting world is changing fast — and Armenia has a real opportunity to get ahead, we are seeing that through our work at Grant Thornton every day.
Technological disruption, sharper client demands, and economic uncertainty are rewriting the rules of engagement. In 2025, these forces are not only redefining the global consulting market, but opening new pathways for emerging players like Armenia.
Globally, clients expect more substance and less talk. They want strategic advice that leads to real-world results. According to Source Global, 43% of clients believe consultants spend too much time selling instead of listening, while 41% feel their real needs are misunderstood. The message is clear: firms that lead with empathy, cultural intelligence, and client-centric solutions will stand out.
Expertise remains a priority, but the definition is changing. Clients today see themselves as holding deeper industry and tech knowledge than many advisors. While sector-specific and tech expertise remain in demand (24% and 21% respectively), the true differentiator is how well consultants integrate client insights into their strategies according to the same source.
Artificial Intelligence is now essential to consulting success. As Source Global research shows, in early 2024, 41% of clients expected AI-driven services; by the end of the year, that number soared to 74%. AI enhances speed, precision, and affordability.
For Armenia, this is a moment of opportunity. Our strong tech sector positions us to leapfrog more mature markets by embedding AI into core consulting services like risk analysis, reporting, and automation. Tailored, tech-forward solutions could become Armenia's competitive advantage.
Global demand is rising for consulting services focused on technology implementation, AI strategy, data analytics, and risk management. Clients are no longer content with good advice; they want partners who help them build, deliver, and protect.
According to the same research, while 79% of clients globally are positive about the quality of services they receive, price sensitivity is escalating. Today, 42% believe consulting fees should decrease, up from just 5% pre-pandemic.
In Armenia's cost-conscious market, delivering measurable outcomes at competitive prices is non-negotiable. Firms must prove their worth, showing not just effort, but tangible business impact.
Despite all the tech transformation, consulting remains a people business. The most common reason clients part ways with a firm? They didn't feel looked after. Small gestures, active listening, and genuine care drive lasting loyalty.
Private equity is becoming a powerful force in reshaping the global consulting industry. It brings a wave of innovation, fresh investment, and new operating models. At the same time, there are new considerations emerging from the ownership structure change. In Armenia, PE activity is still nascent but growing. Firms should prepare for its influence sooner rather than later.
Armenia's consulting sector stands at a crossroads. Global trends demand faster adaptation, deeper specialization, and tech-driven solutions. But with Armenia’s vibrant talent pool and entrepreneurial spirit, the opportunity is real.
By focusing on basic behaviors like listening, investing in sector-specific knowledge, and leveraging local talent, Armenia’s consulting industry has full potential to deliver value to their clients and becoming a regional think-tank with international quality. The future isn’t waiting — and neither should we.
