What would you check first: an email or an SMS? For most people, it is a text message. They are short, quick to read, and easy to respond to. You don’t even need to unlock your phone to see them; they often appear right on your lock screen.
More businesses are choosing SMS marketing for business as part of their communication strategy, and it is not difficult to see why. Recent 2025 data shows that 94% of consumers still prefer receiving text messages over emails or phone calls, and even 79% would consider purchasing a product from marketing message (including WhatsApp). This shows the power of a direct customer communication approach, but why is it so effective for your team? Here are five reasons why adopting an SMS strategy is a smart move for your business and your team.
1. People Prefer Messages Over Calls
Many people prefer receiving a text over a phone call, especially if they are at work or in a public place. This is not just for the younger generation because 97% of UK adults over 54 also prefer SMS as a communication channel. Perhaps this is due to receiving high spam calls which are becoming extremely common. In the first half of 2025 alone, over 129 million fraudulent calls targeted UK subscribers, therefore sending a text shows that you respect their time and allows customers to respond when they feel ready. It is a vital part of a modern mobile communication strategy.
2. No Internet or Downloads Needed
SMS is a default function on every mobile phone. It is one of the most convenient tools available because it does not require an internet connection or a specific app to work. While about 90% of UK adults use Meta-owned services like WhatsApp, SMS covers the remaining 10% and acts as a “can’t miss” backup for your most important messages. This reliability is a huge advantage, especially for the millions of UK commuters who face daily “digital dead zones” on trains or in rural areas. Even when data signals are too weak to load a message on an app, a standard text can usually cut through. Using a tool that doesn’t rely on 4G or 5G, you ensure your business remains one of the most reliable business SMS solutions UK wide.
3. SMS Messaging Is Versatile
SMS is a universal tool that cuts through the noise of a busy inbox. Many organisations use it to reach out to prospects, provide security verification, or send appointment reminders via text. A local clinic or hair salon might use SMS to reduce “no-shows.” Recent research shows that appointment cancellations can drop by 32% when businesses use automated reminders. This simple step ensures your team can stay productive and focus on the work they excel at, rather than managing empty slots in the diary.
4. Connect With Your Customers Any Time
We are a nation that stays connected, but we are also a nation with very busy lives. Ofcom Online Nation report confirms that UK adults now spend an average 4/2 hours online every day. As a manager, this gives you a huge window to reach your audience, but the real secret isn’t just being seen but being heard at the right time. We recommend using discretion here; a well-timed message that adds genuine value, like a personalised “early access” sale to build customer trust. Comparing SMS vs email open rates makes it clear: a text is far more likely to get a quick “thank you” than an email lost in a crowded inbox.
5. It Is Highly Cost-Effective
If you want to work smarter not harder, SMS is one of the most cost-effective marketing tools for business because. Unlike other channels that require expensive graphic designers or huge ad spends, the beauty of a text lies in its plain-text honesty.
Because there are no heavy design costs, your team saves valuable time as well as money. Usually, SMS campaigns can deliver a return of over £16 for every £1 spent. Even for a start-up or a small business with a tight budget, it is a brilliant way to advertise your brand without the stress of “big agency” prices.
Start Texting Your Customers with Confidence
Alfonica is here to help you save time and connect more effectively. We would love to show you how this works in practice, so please feel free to book a demo with one of our friendly team members for a guided tour of our bulk SMS messaging platform or start your free trial today. If you would rather just have a chat about your options first, you can reach us on 0208 209 2799.
