Is SMS the New Revenue Channel?
The inbox is chaos.
Social feeds are throttled by algorithms.
Ads are more expensive and less effective.
So where are smart brands turning? To the one place customers still open almost everything: their texts. But before we declare SMS the next big moneymaker, it’s worth asking—is it really the new revenue channel or just another tool we’ll wear out?
Let’s break it down.
Why SMS Works
SMS feels personal. You don’t hand out your number to brands you don’t trust. That intimacy is gold. Messages get read within minutes, open rates top 90%, and click-throughs often leave email in the dust.
For brands battling noise, that kind of engagement is a game-changer. Retailers are launching drops, restaurants are filling tables, and consumer brands are turning texts into mini-experiences. It’s no longer just a notification. It’s a direct line to attention—and revenue.
From Utility to Experience
Not long ago, texts meant shipping updates and appointment reminders. Now, they’re becoming curated experiences.
Think Glossier texting early access to new products. Or Liquid Death extending its irreverent brand voice into customers’ pockets. Or boutique hotels texting exclusive perks to their top guests. The best brands treat SMS like a VIP concierge: useful, authentic, and intentional.
Respect the Channel
SMS is powerful, but it’s also fragile. Over-message, and you’ll get blocked. Push too hard, and trust disappears. To win, treat SMS like a conversation, not a campaign. Deliver value, build trust, and make every message count.
The Smart Approach
Earn the opt-in. Offer insider perks or access worth sharing a number.
Segment. Texts should feel personal, not mass-produced.
Write like a human. Short, clear, conversational.
Drive action. Each message should offer value or spark a click.
Blend info with emotion. Even a shipping update can feel like a moment.
This isn’t about volume. It’s about precision and purpose.
What’s Next
With AI and payment integration, SMS is evolving into a storefront in your pocket. The brands ahead of the curve are already turning conversations into conversions.
So… Is It the New Revenue Channel?
Not by default. But for brands that understand trust, timing, and tone, it’s quickly becoming one of the most profitable tools in the mix. The message isn’t just what you send—it’s how you show up.
Merrick Creative POV
We see SMS as part of a bigger story. It’s not just another marketing channel—it’s a stage for your voice, your value, and your conversions. Use it wisely, speak clearly, and treat every text like a moment that matters. Attention is earned. SMS is how you keep it.
Ready to explore how SMS can drive revenue for your brand?
Let’s talk and build a text strategy that connects, converts, and creates loyal customers.
