Text or SMS Marketing has quickly become one of the most effective tools when reaching your customers. Whether it’s to promote a sales event, update on an order or follow up after a service, sending a text is a direct way to engage with your audience. 

In fact, ad spending in the SMS Advertising market in the UK is forecasted to reach US$44.2m (£32.7m) in 2025, says data from Statista, with the market expected to demonstrate an annual growth rate of 1.34%. In the UK, SMS Advertising is experiencing a surge in demand due to its cost-effectiveness and high engagement rates.

Around 72% of UK consumers made online purchases via a smartphone in Q3 2024, with 40% of consumers finding it convenient for mobile purchases. Furthermore, industry research suggests that the 93% of consumers have already signed up for SMS programmes or are open to joining, representing a 7% year-over-year increase, with 42% of UK consumers purchasing within hours of receiving a text, outpacing email, branded apps, and social media.

According to the World Economic Forum, SMS has a 98% open rate and a 45% response rate – compared to email which is around 20% or 6%. Around 90% of users open a text within three minutes of receiving it and 94% of consumers prefer SMS above any other communications channel including email, letter and phone call.

The data also outlines that 79% of consumers would consider purchasing a product from a marketing message received via SMS (or WhatsApp), and 90% say personalised messages encourage them to act. Trust is key too, as 37% are more likely to trust a message from a brand if it contains a link to a secure and reputable website, while 80% will avoid an organisation if its communications are poor.

So, what are the top five benefits of sending a text?

1 – Big Reach

As we’ve already discussed, text marketing has a super reach. Statistics show that 92% of adults own a mobile phone, with most keeping their phone within reach at all times. In fact, on average, users potentially look at their phone 150 times per day! SMS allows you to reach customers wherever they are at any time in the day. The average email is opened 48 hours after it is sent, but the average time it takes to open a text message is just three minutes after it being sent.

2 – Conversion Boost

SMS marketing can lead to an increase in conversion rates. The direct nature of SMS communication promotes a stronger feeling of urgency and swift response, whether it’s urging consumers to make a purchase, sign up for an event, or take advantage of a limited-time offer. SMS messages have been found to result in faster decision-making and a higher possibility of completing the targeted action due to their urgent nature. 

3 – Low Cost

Traditional marketing strategies may involve substantial costs for printing, communication, and advertising space. SMS marketing eliminates such expenses, allowing you to reach your target demographic for a fraction of the cost. With the increasing number of mobile devices, the reach potential is massive, while costs are kept low.

4 – Tight Control

As highlighted, text messages are read very quickly after being sent. This means you have more control over your campaign in terms of send time and date. This allows you to target specific moments when you know your audience is likely to react to that text. You can schedule the message at specific times to create the best return. Furthermore, you can adjust material to individual interests and behaviours by using targeted messaging. This personalised touch builds deeper customer relationships and promotes engagement, which can lead to higher response.

5 – Business Tool

Text messages can be sent for a number of reasons when used as a marketing tool within a business. From promoting a sales event, to product launches, SMS marketing has other options too. You can use the channel to have direct communication with a customer through surveys, feedback and other notifications. Think about all of the moments in a customer’s journey when you currently communicate with them and how can using SMS improve this journey. 

What next? Send a text!

Sending a text couldn’t be easier through FurnitureTexts, powered by RetailSystem. To setup a Text Campaign only takes a few moments with the RetailSystem ‘step by step’ guide. You can filter targeted customers and schedule the campaign to send at a chosen time, to suit your customers time zones. What’s more, setting up a promotion is completely free. You will only be charged once a promotion is sent out. 

What text are you going to send?