SMS for Business: Reach Your Target Audience
*Updated 31 January 2025*
Consumers today are bombarded with marketing messages—emails, social media ads, push notifications—yet, many of these communications go unnoticed. What does get noticed? SMS.
These aren’t just numbers—they’re a wake-up call for businesses looking to cut through the noise and truly connect with their customers.
Why SMS Outperforms Email & Other Marketing Channels
The way people consume content has fundamentally changed. Email inboxes are cluttered, online ads are skipped, and push notifications can be ignored. SMS, however, remains a direct and highly personal way to communicate.
1. Unmatched Open and Response Rates
SMS marketing far surpasses email in engagement.
- Email Open Rate: 20-30%
- SMS Open Rate: 98%
- Email Response Rate: 6%
- SMS Response Rate: 45%
- Average Time to Open an Email: Hours (or never)
- Average Time to Open an SMS: 5 seconds
It’s clear: SMS is not just another marketing channel—it’s one of the most effective tools available.
2. People Actually Prefer SMS from Businesses
Many businesses hesitate to use SMS because they assume customers will find it intrusive. The reality? People want to hear from brands via text.
- 75% of UK consumers prefer promotional texts over emails from trusted brands
- 90% of UK consumers have either opted into SMS marketing or are open to doing so.
Why? Because texts feel more personal, relevant, and urgent—without the clutter of an inbox.
3. SMS Boosts Sales & Reduces Lost Revenue
📊 50% of UK consumers have made unplanned purchases because of an SMS.
📊 SMS-only promotions can increase conversions by 25%.
📊 Businesses report a 40% response rate to SMS payment reminders, compared to just 9% for phone calls.
This makes SMS not just a communication tool, but a revenue driver.
How Businesses Can Use SMS Effectively
1. Promotional SMS – Drive More Sales
If you want instant results, SMS promotions are one of the most effective ways to increase conversions and revenue.
✔️ Send exclusive discount codes to VIP customers.
✔️ Announce limited-time offers to encourage impulse buying.
✔️ Notify customers about new product launches or restocks.
Example:
"Flash Sale: 20% OFF everything! Use code FLASH20. Offer expires at midnight. Shop now: [YourWebsite]."
2. Appointment & Booking Reminders
Missed appointments cost businesses money—but a simple SMS reminder can reduce no-shows by up to 50%.
✔️ Medical and dental practices use SMS for patient reminders.
✔️ Hair salons and spas prevent last-minute cancellations.
✔️ Event organisers send reminders for ticketed events.
Example:
"Reminder: Your hair appointment at Luxe Salon is tomorrow at 3 PM. Reply YES to confirm or call 01234 567890 to reschedule."
3. Order Updates & Shipping Notifications
People love to know exactly where their order is. SMS provides real-time tracking updates, improving customer satisfaction.
Example:
"Your order #45678 has been shipped! Track your package here: [TrackingLink]. Expected delivery: 2 days."
4. Payment Reminders & Billing Notifications
Late payments can impact cash flow, but SMS improves collection rates. Businesses that send SMS payment reminders report a 40% response rate, compared to just 9% for phone calls.
Example:
"Reminder: Your electricity bill of £65.40 is due on 15th Feb. Pay now: [PaymentLink] or reply HELP for assistance."
5. Customer Loyalty & Retention
Loyal customers spend more, and SMS helps keep them engaged.
✔️ Send personalised birthday discounts.
✔️ Invite them to VIP sales events.
✔️ Send reminders for loyalty rewards & points expiration.
Example:
"Happy Birthday, Sarah! 🎉 Enjoy 15% OFF your next purchase. Use code BDAY15 at checkout. Expires Sunday!"
The Future of SMS Marketing in the UK
The UK’s SMS marketing industry is growing rapidly, with mobile commerce expected to generate over £100 billion in sales by 2025.
As consumer attention spans shrink and inboxes become more crowded, businesses can’t afford to ignore SMS.
Is Your Business Using SMS Yet?
If not, now is the time to start. With open rates near 100%, there’s no better way to reach customers instantly.
💡 Key Takeaway: SMS marketing isn’t just about sending texts—it’s about driving revenue, reducing missed opportunities, and building lasting relationships with your customers.
Ready to get started?
