SMS Usage Trends and Marketing Statistics Every Business Should Know

SMS Trends & Statistics in 2025

: 4th April 2025

SMS Still Reigns Supreme
SMS continues to outperform other digital channels. Typical open rates are around 98%, and about 90% of texts are read within 3 minutes of delivery. That speed and visibility make SMS one of the most reliable communication tools available.

Consumers Love SMS
In the UK, the vast majority of consumers say they prefer SMS over email, phone calls, or letters for timely updates. Adoption is strong across age groups, with particularly high preference among 25 to 34 year olds.

SMS Drives Purchases
Texts convert. Many shoppers report buying after receiving a relevant text message from a brand. Opt-in SMS lists routinely drive higher conversion rates than email, especially for time-sensitive offers and reminders.

UK Consumers Are Signing Up
Opt-in momentum is growing. A large share of UK consumers are already subscribed to at least one SMS program or open to joining. Younger audiences lead, but adoption is rising across all demographics as brands use SMS more thoughtfully.

SMS Beats Through Noise
Businesses rely on SMS because it reaches people quickly and directly. Compared with inboxes and social feeds, SMS cuts through the noise with near-instant visibility, leading to stronger engagement and faster responses.