Effective Text Message Marketing in Retail

More than ever, In today's economy, many retail business owners rely on a loyal clientele, one

that provides a steady, recurring business.

Building loyalty can be dependent upon a variety of factors including but not limited to, location, hours of operation,

advertising, inventory and quality of product, services, and competitive pricing.

SMS marketing is an ideal complement to a retailer's marketing efforts, providing a direct

and immediate channel to a business' patrons.

The busy lifestyle led by most consumers today necessitates the need to market to their mobile devices in order for the marketing message to be viewed by the consumer, and in a

timely fashion.

When businesses have a Text Marketing or "SMS mobile program" in place they are, in fact, inviting their clientele to establish a one-on-one relationship

with them, with the expectation that upon joining the program, the consumers will receive exclusive incentives that drive them to continue, and INCREASE

their patronage.

One recent CASE STUDY is that of Moe's Southwest Grill in South Florida.

This location acquired 5,000 mobile opt-ins and sent a text message offer on July 4th, 2011.

The offer drove 10% of the subscribers to redeem their same day offer, driving 500 customers to the establishment on

what the industry would otherwise consider a slow holiday.

What are some of the Benefits of using Text SMS for Retail Stores?

SMS marketing programs are designed to increase the purchase frequency of a business' existing customers, typically

offering coupons or other promotional specials to prompt purchases.

It should not be forgotten, however, that loyalty is not only based on the offer of lower

price.

A business should also use its Text Messaging Marketing program to send other information of

value to its program subscribers.

For example, an automotive service company could send out winterizing tips; a business could

conduct a satisfaction survey through SMS.

Put yourself in the place of your consumers and ask yourself what you would want from your

business.

Whatever the nature of your business, remember that the people who've subscribed to your mobile program have

provided you something of tremendous value; permission to market to their cell phone.

Don't abuse the privilege.

Provide value in return, and you'll see fantastic results.

For the past few years, the adoption of text messaging as a means to directly connect businesses and organizations with

their loyal patrons and consumers has seen a steady rise.

Launched in 2008, Text2VIP provides clients with a knowledge base of consumer opt-in best

practices and guidelines.

Working with small and medium size businesses and organizations, their campaigns have helped

produce measurable results.

Case studies have been featured on both their website as well as industry periodicals such as Mobile Marketer

Daily, Mobile Marketing Watch, and e-marketer.