15 Core SMS Marketing Examples to Inspire Your Next Campaign

How can you connect with customers in a way that feels personal and gets results?

SMS marketing offers a simple and direct way to engage your audience. It allows you to promote special offers, follow up on inquiries, and build loyalty with clear and timely messages. Whether you run a small business or a large enterprise, SMS marketing can help you stay connected and drive action.

For businesses, these campaigns can boost sales, improve customer retention, and simplify communication. Enterprises can use SMS to manage leads, send urgent updates, or share personalized promotions.

Even healthcare providers are turning to SMS to make patient reminders and follow-ups easy and effective. The success of these campaigns comes down to creating messages that speak directly to the needs of your audience.

In this article, we will share some of the best SMS marketing examples to help you create campaigns that get results. From increasing sales with time-sensitive promotions to improving customer service with quick updates, these examples are designed to inspire businesses of all types.

What Is SMS Marketing and Why Do Businesses Use It?

SMS marketing is a strategy where businesses use SMS to send informational or promotional messages to customers who have opted in to receive them. These texts are short and direct, containing everything the customer needs to take action on, such as booking an appointment or staying updated on an order.

Unlike email or social media, SMS doesn’t rely on algorithms or inbox filters to reach the audience. Every message lands in the user’s text message inbox, a space most people check multiple times a day.

Businesses use SMS marketing to solve specific problems and achieve measurable results. Some examples include:

• Boosting sales with limited-time discounts
• Reducing no-shows with appointment reminders
• Automating follow-ups to collect feedback or reviews

Creating and sending an SMS campaign doesn’t require advanced technical skills. Most SMS marketing platforms are simple to use and include features like automation, message scheduling, and list management.

Key Elements of a Successful SMS Marketing Campaign

SMS marketing campaigns require thoughtful planning. A poorly executed campaign can lead to low engagement or even compliance issues. Here’s what every great campaign includes:

Clear and Concise Message

Marketing text messages are short by nature. Your goal is to communicate the message quickly and in a way that the recipient immediately understands.

You should avoid using complicated words or industry jargon that might confuse the recipient. Instead, focus on delivering a simple statement that leaves no room for ambiguity. 

Every SMS should start with the most critical information to immediately capture attention. You can follow this with clear instructions or a call-to-action that tells the recipient what to do next.

Ending with a simple, actionable step guarantees that the message doesn’t feel incomplete or leave the recipient wondering how to respond.

Personalization

Personalization starts with understanding your audience. Businesses collect data like customer names, purchase history, preferences, or even location to create unique messages.

Apart from adding someone’s name, you must also send messages that match the recipient’s interests or recent actions. If someone recently purchased running shoes, you might follow up with a message about a sale on athletic apparel. This makes the communication feel thoughtful and relevant.

Segmenting your audience is key to effective personalization. Instead of treating all customers the same, group them based on shared characteristics, such as:

• Purchase behavior (e.g., frequent buyers or first-time shoppers)
• Demographics (e.g., age, location, or gender)
• Preferences (e.g., product categories or services they’ve shown interest in)

The tone of your personalized messages should align with your relationship with the recipient. A friendly, casual tone might suit a retail customer, while a professional tone is better for healthcare or financial services.

Strong Call-to-Action (CTA)

A CTA is often the difference between a successful SMS marketing campaign and one that fails to deliver results. Without a clear next step, even the most engaging message can leave recipients unsure of what to do.

A high-quality CTA is specific, actionable, and easy to follow. Begin your CTA with an action verb, as these words prompt the recipient to take immediate action.

Adding a sense of urgency encourages recipients to act quickly. Phrases like “Limited time only,” “Offer ends tonight,” or “Hurry before it’s gone” create a sense of importance.

To craft strong CTAs, consider the purpose of your message. What do you want the recipient to do after reading it? Then, craft a CTA that leaves no room for doubt. For example:

• If you’re promoting a sale: “Shop the sale now: [link].”
• If you’re reminding someone of an appointment: “Reply CONFIRM to keep your appointment or CANCEL to reschedule.”
• If you’re offering a discount: “Use code SAVE20 at checkout to get 20% off today.”

Keep the CTA short and to the point. Avoid cluttering it with unnecessary details or combining multiple actions in one message.

Timing and Frequency

Timing impacts how likely recipients are to open and act on your messages. A message sent during a busy or inconvenient time may be ignored or even frustrate the recipient.

Businesses targeting working professionals might find that mid-morning (10–11 AM) or early evening (6–7 PM) works best, as these are times when people are less occupied.

Frequency also determines how often you communicate with your audience. If you send too many messages, recipients may feel overwhelmed and unsubscribe. If you send too few, you risk being forgotten.

The key is to strike a balance that keeps your brand top-of-mind without becoming intrusive.

A good rule of thumb is to send messages only when you have something meaningful to share. For instance:

• Promotional offers or sales: Two to four times per month.
• Reminders (e.g., appointments, renewals): As needed, typically, one reminder a few days in advance and another the day before.
• Seasonal or special events: Increase frequency slightly during high-demand periods, like holidays or big sales events.

Compliance With SMS Regulations

SMS regulations are legal requirements that govern how businesses can use text messaging for marketing and communication. These laws vary by region but generally focus on obtaining permission to provide transparency and respect consumer rights.

Before sending marketing messages, you must receive permission from the recipient. This is typically done through an opt-in process, such as a web form, keyword sign-up, or in-person agreement.

To ensure consent, use a double opt-in system where users confirm their subscription after signing up. For example, after a user submits their phone number, they receive a text asking them to confirm their opt-in by replying “YES.”

You can use reputable SMS marketing platforms like Textellent that offer built-in SMS compliance tools, such as automatic opt-out handling, consent tracking, and time zone management.

Audience Segmentation

Not all customers are the same. They have different interests, shopping habits, and engagement preferences.

A one-size-fits-all approach often leads to generic messages that don’t resonate with the recipient. SMS segmentation solves this problem by allowing businesses to target the right audience with the right message.

With Textellent, segmentation begins as soon as a customer opts in. Tags can be assigned automatically based on how the contact joins your list or updated dynamically over time.

Tags in Textellent are not limited to basic categories. They offer unmatched flexibility, where you can group contacts based on multiple characteristics, such as:

• Interests: Tags like “Electronics Enthusiast” or “Fitness Focus” let you target messages about specific products or services
• Purchase history: Group customers based on the items they’ve bought or services they’ve used
• Assigned representative: For businesses with dedicated account managers, customers can receive messages directly tied to their assigned contact
• Preferred language: Deliver texts in the language your customers prefer for more personalized communication
• Custom tags: Define unique characteristics like membership levels, loyalty points, or subscription preferences

Tags can also be synchronized with your existing CRM, customer service tools, or other business systems for seamless platform integration.

Analytics and Continuous Improvement

Analytics provide insights into how different audience segments respond to your messages. If one segment consistently shows higher engagement, you can tailor campaigns further to match their preferences while adjusting for less-engaged groups.

One of the standout features of Textellent is how easily you can track the success of your campaigns using marketing segmentation. Each campaign can be tagged and analyzed to show which efforts drive results.

Textellent simplifies performance tracking by using text-based keywords that automatically tag customers as they interact with your campaigns.

This system provides you with clear insights into which advertising platforms or physical campaigns (e.g., signs, banners) are driving engagement to allocate ad spending better.

15 SMS Marketing Examples Across Industries

Text message marketing has proven successful across various industries. Below are a few common SMS marketing messages to engage with their audiences, build relationships, and drive results.

1. Flash Sales

Retail stores use SMS to create excitement and urgency for limited-time offers.

“Flash Sale! 40% off all winter coats today only. Shop now: [link].”

2. Cart Abandonment Reminders

Online stores send messages to remind customers about items they left in their carts. These messages help recover lost sales and bring customers back to your site.

“You left something behind! Complete your purchase today and enjoy 10% off. Use code COMPLETE10.”

3. Loyalty Program Updates

Businesses reward repeat customers by updating them about their loyalty points or special offers.

“Hi Alex, you’ve earned 500 points! Redeem them for a $10 reward on your next purchase.”

4. Appointment Reminders

Service providers use SMS to remind customers about upcoming appointments and reduce missed appointments.

“Reminder: Your appointment with Dr. Green is on Monday at 3 PM. Reply CONFIRM to keep or CANCEL to reschedule.”

5. Seasonal Health Campaigns

Healthcare providers send messages to promote seasonal services, like flu shots or health check-ups.

“Flu season is here! Schedule your flu shot today: [link].”

6. Prescription Refills

Pharmacies notify patients when their medications are ready to be picked up.

“Your prescription is ready for pickup at ABC Pharmacy.”

7. Booking Confirmations

Hotels and travel businesses send SMS confirmations for reservations.

“Your room at Oceanview Hotel is confirmed! Check-in: July 20, 2025, at 3 PM.”

8. Travel Updates

Airlines and travel companies use SMS to update travelers on changes like delays or gate assignments.

“Flight 567 to NYC is delayed by 1 hour. New departure time: 5:30 PM.”

9. Upselling Services

Hotels and service providers offer upgrades through SMS to improve customer experience. These offers increase revenue while giving customers better options.

“Upgrade to a suite for $50/night. Reply YES to confirm!”

10. Order Updates

Food delivery services send updates about the status of orders.

“Your pizza is out for delivery and will arrive by 6:30 PM.”

11. Limited-Time Offers

Restaurants and stores use SMS to drive traffic with exclusive deals.

“Craving tacos? Get 15% off orders over $20 today only. Show this message to redeem.”

12. Birthday Discounts

Businesses celebrate customer birthdays by offering special deals.

“Happy Birthday, Sarah! Enjoy a free dessert with any meal this week. Show this text to claim.”

13. Open House Invitations

Real estate agents use SMS to invite buyers to view properties.

Join us for an open house at 123 Main St. this Saturday from 12–4 PM.”

14. New Listings

Agents notify clients about newly available homes.

“New Listing: 3-bed, 2-bath home with a pool. View details here: [link].”

15. Price Reductions

Real estate agents send price drop alerts to motivate buyers.

“The price of 456 Oak Lane has been reduced by $10,000. Contact us for more info.”

Create Your Own SMS Marketing Campaign Inspired by These Examples

Creating a successful SMS marketing campaign requires careful planning and execution. While the examples above provide inspiration, here’s how you can design a campaign that aligns with your business goals and resonates with your audience.

Step 1: Define Your Campaign Goals

Start by identifying what you want to achieve with your SMS marketing efforts. Clear objectives will guide your SMS marketing strategy.

If you run a service-based business, your goal could be to reduce appointment no-shows. A simple SMS reminder can help confirm attendance or allow customers to reschedule if necessary.

Sometimes, the focus of your campaign might be on strengthening customer relationships. In this case, the goal could be to build loyalty by offering exclusive rewards or sending birthday discounts.

No matter the objective, it’s important to be specific. Instead of a vague goal like “get more sales,” aim for something measurable, such as “increase weekend sales by 20% using a discount code shared via SMS.”

Step 2: Build and Segment Your Subscriber List

Start by growing your subscriber list with permission-based sign-ups. It’s important to get explicit consent from your audience to comply with regulations and maintain trust. You can offer value to encourage people to opt in, such as exclusive discounts, early access to sales, or useful updates.

Once someone opts in, they become part of your SMS list. Make sure your sign-up process is simple and clear and outlines what the subscriber can expect to receive (e.g., promotional offers, updates, reminders).

You can also segment your list further based on data collected over time. Grouping your audience by factors such as purchase history, location, interests, or engagement levels allows you to send more targeted messages.

With Textellent’s flexible tagging system, segmentation becomes even more powerful. Tags can be assigned based on how SMS subscribers opt-in, what they’re interested in, or even the products/services they’ve purchased.

Step 3: Craft Your Message

Make your message personal by including the recipient’s name or referencing their past interactions. Personal touches help build a stronger connection.

1. Sender identification: Use a recognizable sender name or shortcode.
2. Personalization: Address recipients by name when possible.
3. Clear CTA: Tell users exactly what you want them to do (e.g., “Click here,” “Reply YES,” or “Shop now”).
4. Link to additional info: If your message requires more context, include a shortened link to your website or landing page.

Textellent’s drip campaigns allow you to craft messages that reflect the individual needs and timeline of each customer. It can also automate follow-ups that align with specific dates or milestones. This could be a reminder to complete a task, a thank-you message, or a renewal prompt.

Step 4: Schedule Messages for Maximum Engagement

Even the best-crafted messages can fall flat if sent at the wrong time. Scheduling your messages ensures they reach your audience when they are most likely to see and engage with them.

Textellent’s unique Speed to Lead feature allows every prospect who reaches out to receive an immediate, context-based response. This automatic text acknowledges their inquiry, thanks them, and can request further details to engage them more fully.

Textellent’s opt-in keywords also tailor responses and campaigns based on customer input. Prospects or customers can text specific keywords to opt into a campaign or get more information. Each keyword automatically triggers the right contextual response or sequence of messages.

Customers don’t stop reaching out after business hours, but with Textellent’s after-hours responders, you’ll never leave them waiting. These automated messages serve as a virtual assistant, acknowledging inquiries when your team is unavailable and setting clear expectations for follow-up.

Step 5: Analyze and Optimize Your Campaign

Without analysis, you’re operating in the dark. Metrics give you a clear picture of how well your campaign resonates with your audience.

You need to look for patterns in the data. High response rates but low conversions may indicate a need for stronger CTAs. Low click-through rates could suggest that links are poorly placed or not enticing enough.

If certain segments underperform, you have to refine your segmentation strategy. You can try creating smaller, more focused groups based on customer preferences or behaviors. If certain opt-in keywords outperform others, replicate the strategy behind them in your future campaigns.

How Textellent Can Help With SMS Marketing

Textellent offers a unique and comprehensive approach to SMS marketing that sets it apart from competitors. With advanced features tailored to meet diverse business needs, Textellent focuses on seamless integration, robust automation, and maximizing engagement.

Here’s why Textellent should be your go-to solution to boost your SMS marketing efforts.

Existing Phone Numbers for Seamless Integration

Unlike many platforms that require new or temporary numbers, Textellent uses your existing business phone number whenever possible. This ensures brand consistency, builds trust with customers, and simplifies communication by keeping all interactions tied to a familiar contact point.

MMS Capability With Images

Textellent supports sending images through its MMS platform to give you the opportunity to improve SMS messages with visuals, such as product photos, promotional banners, or branded media. This feature helps make messages more engaging and impactful, something not all SMS platforms offer.

Flexible Keyword Use With Real Numbers

Textellent’s keywords can be used with shared short codes, long codes, or your dedicated business number. While automated, responses always come from a real phone number to provide a personal touch and build customer trust, unlike platforms that only use shortcodes.

Powerful Appointment Management App

Textellent’s appointment scheduling and management feature goes far beyond standard scheduling apps like Calendly. The platform can send pre-appointment reminders and post-appointment follow-ups and increase revenue opportunities by automating these touchpoints.

Advanced Tagging and Segmentation

Textellent’s tagging and segmentation tools are customizable. You can group customers by preferences, purchase history, or actions like requesting an estimate.

You can also tailor campaigns to attendees of specific events or new customers opting in for services. Messages are always targeted and relevant to better customer engagement and conversion rates.

Powerful Integration Capabilities

While integration with other systems is available and powerful, Textellent doesn’t require it for effective use. You can benefit from the platform’s full functionality whether or not you choose to integrate it with your business’s existing tools.

Exceptional Lead Generation and Nurturing

Textellent excels in lead generation and nurturing, which offers tools to send personalized messages immediately after an inquiry. Then, follow up with targeted drip campaigns designed to move leads further along the sales funnel.

Drip campaigns can be tied to specific events, such as a purchase, a new preference, or an estimate, to keep the lead receiving timely and relevant follow-ups.

Real-Time Tracking of Conversions

Textellent includes tracking capabilities to monitor response rates and conversions. When links are included in messages, you can track customer engagement, such as clicks to a purchase site.

Template Libraries for Messages and Media

To save time and ensure consistent branding, Textellent offers template libraries for messages and MMS content. These templates help you craft professional and engaging communications tailored to your organization’s needs.

A Holistic Focus on the Customer Journey

Textellent stands out by focusing on the entire customer journey, not just individual touchpoints. From the initial inquiry to lead nurturing, appointment scheduling, and post-service follow-ups, the platform optimizes every stage for engagement and value.

Get the SMS Marketing Edge Your Business Needs With Textellent

What if your next SMS marketing campaign could go beyond generic messages and deliver results that truly transform your business? 

With Textellent, you can engage your audience, build stronger customer relationships, and drive measurable outcomes, all through the power of SMS.

With features like keyword automation, detailed drip campaigns, and real-time analytics, you’ll have everything you need to create impactful, tailored messages. Textellent also makes it easy to use your existing phone numbers, send MMS with images, and manage the entire customer journey.

Don’t settle for the average when your SMS campaigns can lead the way in customer engagement. Experience the difference Textellent can make for your business.

Sign up for a free trial or request a demo consultation today!

FAQs About SMS Marketing Examples

Is SMS marketing illegal in the USA?

No, SMS marketing is not illegal in the USA, but it is regulated to protect consumer privacy and ensure businesses use it responsibly. The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and other regulations like the CAN-SPAM Act govern how businesses can send SMS messages.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines and damage a business’s reputation. A compliant SMS platform like Textellent helps businesses adhere to these rules while ensuring effective communication.

How do you do SMS marketing?

SMS marketing uses text messages to engage with customers, promote products or services, and build relationships. You can start by sending a welcome message to new subscribers, thanking them for joining, and setting the tone for future communication.

Then, plan your next SMS marketing campaign around a clear goal, such as boosting sales or reducing appointment no-shows. Create short, engaging messages with a call to action that prompts the recipient to take action.

Also, determine the best times to send your messages and use automation tools to deliver them at optimal moments. Textellent’s drip campaigns and scheduling features guarantee timely delivery without manual effort.

Is SMS marketing suitable for small businesses?

SMS marketing is ideal for small businesses because of its affordability and high ROI. It provides a direct way to reach customers without the need for large advertising budgets.

With platforms like Textellent, small businesses can automate their campaigns, track performance, and deliver personalized messages with ease.