In 2025, SMS marketing is no longer an emerging channel, it’s a proven revenue driver that brands need to prioritize. Despite its potential, many businesses are still treating SMS like it’s 2020, using outdated tactics or neglecting the channel entirely.
At Dispatch, we regularly audit growing e-commerce brands' marketing and see the same mistakes over and over: either SMS isn’t being used, or it’s being used completely wrong.
Here’s the reality: SMS should be contributing 5–15% of your total revenue. If it’s not, you’re leaving money on the table.
Let’s dive into what actually works in SMS marketing and how to maximize its potential in 2025.
Stop Treating SMS Like Email
One of the biggest misconceptions about SMS is that it’s just a smaller version of email. This couldn’t be further from the truth. SMS is a highly personal, immediate channel that demands a unique strategy.
Unlike email, where customers often browse messages at their leisure, SMS thrives on time-sensitive opportunities where immediacy matters.
When SMS Works Best
SMS is ideal for campaigns that require urgency or exclusivity. Here are some of the most effective use cases:
Flash Sales
Perfect for limited inventory or time-sensitive discounts.
SMS ensures your offer reaches customers immediately, increasing the likelihood of conversions.
Product Launches
Use SMS to create excitement for high-demand items.
Notify your audience the moment a product is available to capitalize on urgency.
Back-in-Stock Notifications
Let customers know when their favorite items are back.
These messages often see higher conversion rates since the customer is already interested.
Early Access to Promotions
Reward your SMS subscribers with exclusive early-bird deals.
This strategy not only drives conversions but also builds loyalty.
The Key to SMS Success: Build Your List Now
One of the most common mistakes brands make is waiting until they “need” SMS before starting to build their list. By then, it’s too late to fully leverage the channel.
Start collecting SMS subscribers today, even if you’re not ready to activate the channel immediately.
Here’s how:
1. Use Popup Forms to Collect Consent
Add SMS opt-ins to your site’s popup forms. Be transparent about what customers can expect—such as exclusive deals, early access, or back-in-stock notifications.
2. Convert Email Subscribers to SMS
Encourage your existing email subscribers to opt into SMS by offering perks like:
Early access to product launches.
Exclusive discounts available only to SMS subscribers.
3. Prioritize a Seamless Experience
Sync your SMS and email marketing for a cohesive customer journey. For example:
Send an email campaign first.
If the recipient doesn’t convert within a set timeframe, follow up with an SMS reminder.
This layered approach increases touchpoints without overwhelming your audience.
Crafting SMS Campaigns That Convert
Your SMS strategy should focus on exclusivity and urgency. Every message you send must deliver value and include a clear call to action (CTA).
Best Practices for SMS Marketing in 2025
Focus on High-Value Campaigns
SMS should be reserved for campaigns that justify the channel’s immediacy—don’t copy and paste your email strategy.
Be Concise and Actionable
Keep messages short, direct, and always include a clear CTA, such as:
“Shop Now”
“Claim Your Discount”
“Reserve Your Spot”
Leverage Personalization
Personalize messages with customer names, product recommendations, or location-based offers to make messages feel tailored and relevant.
Integrate Customer Support
Enhance your SMS experience by offering 1-on-1 customer service. Integrate tools like Gorgias to handle proactive support inquiries directly within your flows.
Respect Your Audience
Subscribers trust you enough to share their phone numbers. Don’t abuse that trust with generic or overly frequent messages. Focus on delivering high-value, relevant content.
List Size vs. Conversion Rates
Your SMS list will likely be smaller than your email list, but it should convert much higher. If your SMS campaigns aren’t driving better conversion rates than email, it’s a sign your strategy needs work.
Getting Started with SMS in 2025
If SMS isn’t contributing at least 5–15% of your revenue, it’s time to reevaluate your approach.
Quick Checklist for SMS Success
✅ Start building your SMS list today.
✅ Use SMS for time-sensitive, high-value campaigns.
✅ Sync SMS with email for a seamless, layered experience.
✅ Personalize messages to increase engagement.
✅ Respect your subscribers’ trust by focusing on value.
Ready to Maximize Your SMS Revenue?
At Dispatch, we specialize in helping brands unlock the full potential of SMS marketing. From building your list to crafting high-converting campaigns, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
👉 Connect with Dispatch today to optimize your SMS strategy and drive more revenue in 2025.
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