If you’re running a business in Durham and wondering if Facebook Ads are still a smart move in 2025 — the short answer is yes, but only if you run them right.
With ad costs rising and more competition in the digital space, many business owners are asking:
“Are Facebook Ads still profitable in Durham?”
Let’s dig into the data, the trends, and how local businesses can still win on Facebook.
Why Facebook Still Matters in Durham
Here’s what we’re seeing across Durham and the wider UK market:
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🔍 76% of adults in Durham use Facebook at least weekly (Meta UK Regional Data, 2025)
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📈 Local service ads (plumbers, dentists, estate agents) are seeing a 3.5x average ROI
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📹 Video ads are 2x more effective than image ads for local engagement
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🎯 Meta’s 2025 update to Advantage+ campaigns has improved targeting accuracy by 37%
So yes, people are still on Facebook. The challenge is reaching the right ones with the right message.
Common Reasons Facebook Ads Fail
Many Durham businesses say Facebook Ads “don’t work” — but here’s what we usually find:
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Poor targeting – Ads shown to the wrong audience or wrong area
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Weak creative – No hook, no clear offer, and too much text
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No retargeting strategy – Missed opportunities to bring back interested viewers
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No tracking or testing – Wasting money without data
What’s Working in Durham in 2025
✅ Local Awareness Campaigns
Boost visibility for businesses like cafés, gyms, and salons with postcode-specific ads.
✅ Lead Generation Ads
Facebook’s built-in forms convert 38% better than external landing pages (Meta, Q2 2025).
✅ Reels + Stories Video Ads
Durham audiences love quick, mobile-friendly content. Video Reels = high engagement.
✅ Remarketing
Show ads to people who visited your website or engaged with your Instagram in the last 14 days.
Real-Life Example: Durham Tutoring Service
A local tutoring company targeting Durham parents saw:
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Cost per lead drop from £12.40 to £4.80
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185 new sign-ups in 30 days
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ROI: 420% from a £750 monthly ad budget
The secret? A hyper-local campaign with testimonials, custom video, and a time-limited offer.
Should You Still Use Facebook Ads in Durham?
Yes — but only if you treat them like a business asset, not a gamble.
If you don’t have the time or strategy to manage ads yourself, it’s better to hire a Durham-based team that knows what works here, not just globally.
At Softplace, we’ve helped dozens of Durham businesses across retail, education, beauty, and professional services run profitable campaigns — with complete transparency and data-backed decisions.
Tip of the Day
Before spending £1, ask: “Is this ad offering real value to my ideal customer?”
If the answer’s “maybe,” it’s time to rework the creative or the targeting.
Want Us to Look at Your Facebook Ads?
We’re happy to audit your current ad setup — or create one that works from scratch.
Fill the form below and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours with a custom plan.
