Frustrated with ThomasNet? What’s the Better Alternative?
Updated: November 11, 2025
Platforms like ThomasNet have traditionally been a go-to platform for B2B lead generation. After Xometry acquired ThomasNet in 2021, clients have increasingly expressed frustration regarding decrease in website traffic and leads, poor content writing, no follow-up and high turnover in sales reps.
It’s time to reassess whether they are truly delivering the best ROI. Instead of using ThomasNet listings and/or their SEO services that quickly drain your budget without any significant results to show, switch to a trusted, full-service digital marketing agency for industrial companies.
At Marketing Metrics Corp., we use marketing tactics that are outperforming traditional online directories. How? In addition to having access to website analytical reporting, we are copied on every website RFQ and contact us form, so we know which marketing tactics provide the best return on investment. These leads are reviewed with clients on a monthly basis to make sure we also know which leads convert to customers.
This personalized marketing approach will help drive sales, provide long-term success, and help your business thrive while your competition continues to pour precious dollars into ThomasNet and the like.
Key Takeaways
- ThomasNet Post-Acquisition Issues – After Xometry’s 2021 acquisition, clients report decreased traffic/leads, poor content quality, no follow-up, and high sales rep turnover
- Massive Traffic Decline – ThomasNet’s US desktop traffic dropped 88% in 24 months according to SEMRush data – traditional directories are dying
- Content Makes the Difference – Marketing agencies with manufacturing expertise create quality SEO content faster (vs ThomasNet’s 4-month ebook delays) and understand technical differences
- Real ROI Tracking – Digital agencies get copied on every RFQ and contact form, providing transparent lead tracking and monthly performance reviews with clients
- Full-Service Alternative – Instead of expensive directory listings, invest in targeted SEO, social media engagement, and digital advertising that directly reaches your ideal audience
Manufacturers Say: ThomasNet Doesn’t Work Anymore!
If you’re a manufacturer, you’ve likely spent a hefty budget on ThomasNet already, hoping to drive more leads and sales. But here’s the hard truth: traditional directory listings are rapidly losing effectiveness in today’s digital landscape. According to SEMRush, ThomasNet.com US desktop traffic has declined 88% over the last 24 months. Traditional online advertising platforms are simply not working so market strategies must align with those changes.
Instead of pouring money into listings that may go unseen, consider investing in a more targeted, cost-effective strategy. Think about increasing your Google organic rankings with SEO-driven content, social media engagement, and specific digital advertising campaigns that speak directly to your ideal audience.
What is the main difference between ThomasNet and Marketing Metrics SEO services?
In a word, content! One of the biggest components of a successful SEO program is providing industrial and manufacturing sectors quality content that can increase your Google rankings, traffic, and leads. Our copywriters have the right experience and understand the manufacturing industry to know the difference between a fiber laser and CO2 laser! In addition, they understand the industrial purchasing process. By developing content that targets your key prospects and employs innovative keyword research, we’ll help you excel! Lastly, it shouldn’t take 4 months to write an Ebook.
At Marketing Metrics, we deliver results
Marketing Metrics Corp is a full-service digital marketing agency. Our unique ability to leverage sales, marketing, and technology together, has helped hundreds of manufacturing companies accelerate their growth. We’ll power up your website, search engine marketing, emails and social media activity to increase traffic and sales leads. Whether you’re looking for support with a stand-alone project or a complete end-to-end digital marketing program, Marketing Metrics will deliver results!
It’s time to redirect your marketing dollars to where they’ll have a real impact—on platforms and tactics that truly work.
Tired of ThomasNet’s Broken Promises? We Actually Deliver.
ThomasNet is declining rapidly post-acquisition – switch to a top manufacturing-focused digital marketing agency for better content, tracking, and ROI 🚀
