Show Notes
The conversation focused on WordPress's recent market share decline, with data showing a dip from a 36% peak in 2022 to 33% in 2026. Casey and I discussed the rise of alternative platforms like Shopify and Webflow, the impact of AI-driven site building, and WordPress' marketing challenges compared to competitors. We got into how plugin developers and agencies must reassess products and business models to stay relevant, and explored WordPress’ open source advantage and questioned whether renewed emphasis on data ownership could help counter trends threatening community engagement and growth.
More from WP Builds
On the podcast today we have Ken Young.
So today is like no other podcast episode I've ever aired on WP Builds. There's no intro, and I'm not the host, although I am in it!
Before we get into the podcast, a few words from me.
Join Nathan Wrigley, Rhys Wynne, Raquel Manriquez, Steve Burge. The conversation focused on major WordPress updates, including the 7.2 roadmap with new security features and collaborative tools like suggestion mode and the Presence API. Several points were raised about the surge in plugin submissions driven by AI and evolving review processes. The discussion explored upcoming community events such as PressConf in Barcelona and the return of WordCamp Manchester, highlighting their unique formats. A key theme that emerged was the importance of collaboration and innovation in both technology and community engagement. The episode mixed WordPress news, practical insights for professionals, and plenty of humour around British culture and drinks.