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40+ promotional text message examples you’ll love
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Looking for ways to spice up your SMS marketing campaigns and boost sales? You’re not alone. In 2024, 79% of consumers we surveyed said they’d opted in to receive texts from businesses – an 11% growth from the year before. It’s clear that customers are eager to hear from you through this convenient marketing channel.
But crafting the perfect promotional SMS can be a head scratcher. You want to grab your audience’s attention, showcase your products or services, and drive conversions – all in just a few short sentences.
That’s where we come in. In this post, we’ve gathered over 40 examples of smart promotional text messages from top brands in various industries.
A promotional text message is a type of SMS marketing that businesses use to inform customers about special offers, discounts, or limited-time deals. These messages grab attention, create a sense of urgency, and ultimately drive sales.
Perhaps you think of promotional texts as the digital equivalent of traditional advertising like billboards – but instead of just catching glances, they land right in your customers’ pockets through their mobile devices.
But a better comparison is to email marketing or even a one-on-one conversation with a sales representative. Unlike a traditional out-of-home (OOH) advertisement that’s available to anyone passing by, SMS campaign subscribers have opted in to hear from you. They want and expect to get updates and offers.
This represents a more permission-based marketing approach that can result in high response rates and deeper customer relationships.
With a well-crafted promotional SMS message, you can:
Roughly a quarter of consumers have made a purchase from a text in the last year. However, our 2024 research also found that over 26% of consumers say that receiving too frequent communications would make them less likely to buy from a company. Striking the right balance is key – and only sending timely, relevant offers rather than overwhelming your audience. Following a few best practices also helps increase click-through rates, like:
And as a general best practice: Be creative! In his 2024 Email Camp session about SMS strategies, Alfredo Salkeld, Brand Director at Sinch SimpleTexting, stressed that marketers should feel free to be creative when they get started with using SMS for marketing campaigns and think about what they would want to receive.
“Most brands are doing the same exact thing with their text messages… just sending discounts: 30% off, 40% off, 20% off. In order to compete, you need to get creative in what you’re sending and how you’re engaging.”
“Ask yourself: How can I turn my SMS campaign into an interactive experience? How could I use storytelling to make my messages more engaging? What would my messages be like if they were designed to create a moment of joy or delight?”
-Alfredo Salkeld, Brand Director at Sinch SimpleTexting. Watch the full Email Camp session
It can be difficult to visualize these best practices when they’re just instructions.
But here’s a solution: text message templates for promotional and transactional SMS. These ready-to-use SMS templates and examples put best practices into action. Simply copy, paste, and customize these templates to fit your brand’s unique voice and products.
Welcome SMS messages set expectations, build trust, and drive engagement right from the start for new customers. This template can help you create a warm, inviting introduction to your brand.
Welcome to the [Brand] family, [Name]! Get ready for insider access to our latest drops & secret sales. Check your inbox for a surprise!
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Or, you can use this one to provide an enticing offer and encourage quick action.
[Name], you’re in! We can’t wait to share our newest arrivals with you. Enjoy free shipping on your first order. Use code FREESHIP.
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Opening a new store location? That’s a big deal – and the perfect opportunity to get your SMS subscribers excited and engaged. Use personalization, exclusive offers, and a sense of urgency to drive that foot traffic and create buzz around your new location.
It’s finally here, [Name]! Our [location] store is now open. Be one of the first to shop and enjoy [XX]% off your purchase. See you soon!
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This promotional text message example can help you announce a VIP grand opening:
[Name], you’re invited to the VIP grand opening of our [location] store! Show this text for a special gift with purchase. Don’t miss out!
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Got a new product or promotion you’re itching to share with your customers? Text them.
Use SMS to give subscribers an exclusive sneak peek, a special discount, or early access to your latest and greatest offerings. It’s like having a direct line to your biggest fans.
[Name], get ready to fall in love with our new [product]! Use code NEWLOVE for [XX]% off your purchase. Shop now at [link].
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Use this template to offer early access to the sale.
[Name], as a valued customer, you get early access to our [product] sale! Enjoy [XX]% off for the next 24 hours. Shop now at [link].
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There’s something special about limited edition products. They’re exclusive; they’re unique; and they have that “gotta have it” factor that customers can’t resist.
The secret to using text messages to promote limited-edition releases is to create a fear of missing out (FOMO). Also, make your subscribers feel special with early access, exclusive discounts, or even a sneak-peek, behind-the-scenes look.
Limited offer, [Name]! Our [product] drops tomorrow at [XX] am! Set your alarm and get ready to shop. Once it’s gone, it’s gone! [link]
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You can use this template to give subscribers limited VIP access.
[Name], as a VIP member, you get first dibs on our [product] limited edition! Shop now and get free shipping with code VIPSHIP. [link]
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Want to create a sense of excitement and urgency around your products? That’s what flash sales do best.
These short-term, high-discount promotions move inventory, boost sales, and build buzz around your brand.
[Name], surprise! For the next 24 hours, get [XX]% off our [product] collection. Use code FLASH[XX] at checkout. [link]
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Or, try this template to create a sense of urgency.
Tick tock, [Name]! Our flash sale ends in 6 hours. Get [product] for just $[price] before time runs out. [link]
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Give your subscribers the red-carpet treatment with early access sales.
When you give a select group of people first dibs on your latest products or promotions, they feel like they’re part of an exclusive club. The result? Higher engagement, stronger brand loyalty, and more frequent purchases.
Psst, [Name]! Our new collection drops tomorrow, but you can shop it now with your VIP early access link. [link]
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This example can help you offer early access to holiday shopping.
[Name], get a head start on holiday shopping with early access to our gift guide! Use code EARLYBIRD for [XX]% off. [link]
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Black Friday is like the holiday rush at a busy airport. If you’re not using SMS marketing to reach your customers, you’re allowing your competitors to board the flight while you’re stuck at the terminal.
Our 2024 BFCM communications survey of over 1,200 consumers found that they wanted to start hearing from brands as early as October 29, a full month before BFCM, while 21.9% prefer even earlier. SMS is a great channel for engaging shoppers early – here’s an example of how you might word that.
[Name], our Black Friday sale starts now! Get [XX]% off sitewide + free shipping with code BLACKFRIDAY. Shop now: [link]
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Use this template when you want to highlight budget-friendly options.
[Name], don’t miss out on our biggest Black Friday deals yet! Shop our top picks under $[XX]. [link]
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For some shoppers, clearance racks are like a treasure hunt. The differences between the “original prices” and the marked-down rates draw them in and leave the impression these deals are just too good to pass up.
Hello [Name], our summer clearance sale starts now! Get up to [XX]% off swimwear, sandals, and more. Shop now before it’s gone: [link]
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You can use this promotional text message template when you want to create a sense of urgency for your clearance sale.
Last chance, [Name]! Our fall clearance sale ends tonight. Take an extra [XX]% off already reduced prices with code EXTRA[XX]. [link]
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Everyone loves a good deal. Discounts tap into the universal desire to get the most value for one’s money. In fact, Sinch Mailgun’s 2024 research found that 46% of consumers opt in for text messages from brands to get special offers or one-time discounts. That makes a good case for using discounts to grow your text message list!
Here’s an example you could use:
[Name], take [XX]% off your next purchase with code SMS[XX]! Shop now and save on our latest collection. [link]
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This template is perfect for offering tiered discounts:
[Name], for a limited time, get $[XX] off your order of $[XX] or more! Use code [XX]OFF at checkout. [link]
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Mobile coupons delivered via SMS drive in-store traffic, boost sales and encourage customer loyalty. Plus, with the ability to track redemption rates and customer behavior, you get juicy insights into what offers resonate with your audience.
[Name], flash your phone at checkout to get $[XX] off your next in-store purchase of $[XX] or more! Offer ends Sunday.
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This example is great for promoting mobile app usage:
[Name], use code MOBILEDEAL for [XX]% off your next order! Shop now on our mobile app. [link]
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Free shipping is a powerful motivator for online shoppers. According to Wunderman Thompson, almost half of shoppers worldwide buy directly from brands with free delivery.
Free shipping removes a key barrier to purchase and provides your customers with a compelling reason to choose your brand over competitors. Trackable links and unique promo codes also attribute sales directly to your SMS campaign.
[Name], we’ve got great news! Free shipping on all orders over $[XX] this weekend only. Use code FREESHIP at checkout. [link]
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Or, use this promotional example to emphasize convenience:
[Name], for a limited time, enjoy free shipping on your next purchase! Shop now and save. [link]
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The average shopping cart abandonment rate globally is a staggering 73%. That means nearly three out of every four potential customers leave items behind in their online carts.
But abandoned cart reminders turn those lost sales opportunities in omnichannel ecommerce into sales. Timely text messages to customers who’ve left items in their cart gently nudge them to complete their purchase while the intent to buy is still fresh in their minds.
[Name], you left something behind! Complete your purchase now and get [XX] % off your order with code COMEBACK[XX]. [link]
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You can also use this concise reminder.
[Name], your cart is waiting! Don’t miss out on [product name]. Click to complete your purchase: [link]
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When it comes to brands they’re loyal to, customers expect a little something extra. More than half of customers anticipate that their favorite brands will know and acknowledge their birthday.
And what better way to show your customers you care than by sending them a unique discount on their special day?
Here’s what’s great about birthday discounts: They show your customers you really care. That you’re not just another faceless brand, but a company that values their business and appreciates them as individuals.
Happy birthday, [Name]! To celebrate, we’re giving you [XX]% off your next purchase. Use code BDAY[XX] at checkout. [link]
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Here’s another good example to make a subscriber feel special on their birthday.
[Name], it’s your special day! Treat yourself to $[XX] off any purchase of $[XX] or more. Use code BIRTHDAYGIFT at checkout. [link]
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With the right message, transform any event into a must-attend spectacle. Whether it’s a seasonal sale, an exclusive webinar, or an in-store event, the excitement begins the moment your SMS hits their phones.
Mark your calendars, [Name]! Our exclusive event is almost here. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable experience. Details: [link]
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You can also use promotional messages to give them a teaser of the event:
[Name], are you ready for something amazing? Join us for our special event and be part of the excitement! Details here: [link]
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Feedback requests are like sitting down for a coffee with your customers and asking, “So, what do you think?” It opens up that friendly dialogue and makes every customer feel heard and valued.
Hey [Name], did we hit the mark? Share thoughts on your recent experience with us. We’re all ears! Click to give feedback: [link]
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You can also use this conversational example to request feedback:
[Name], we’re curious! How was your experience with [product/service]? Let’s make your next visit even better. Share feedback: [link]
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Product reviews are like a compass for online shopping. They help future customers make smart choices and give you clear feedback on how your products are doing.
[Name], we hope you’re enjoying your purchase! Would you mind sharing your thoughts? Share your experience here: [link]
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You can use this template to encourage feedback:
Your opinion matters, [Name]! We’d love to hear what you think about [product name]. Your feedback is invaluable. Leave a review: [link]
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Want to keep your customers coming back for more? A loyalty program might just be the answer. Over 50% of respondents in a study said a loyalty program would make them continue purchasing from a brand—even more than good customer service and positive on-site search experiences.
And SMS is the perfect way to keep your loyalty program top of mind. With consistently scheduled text messages you can remind customers of their points balance, alert them to new rewards or perks, encourage them to take advantage of exclusive offers, and celebrate milestones and achievements.
[Name], you’re just 100 points away from a $10 reward! Earn double points on all purchases this weekend. [link]
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Alternatively, you can use this template if you have a VIP program.
Congratulations, [Name]! You’ve reached VIP status in our loyalty program. Enjoy free shipping on all orders for the next 30 days.
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Everyone loves to feel like a VIP. And by offering exclusive deals and perks to your best customers via SMS, you can make them feel like true insiders.
VIP specials make your top customers feel valued and appreciated and create a sense of exclusivity and belonging.
[Name], exclusive VIP sale happening now! Take an extra [XX]% off sale prices. Use code VIPSALE at checkout. [link]
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Use this template to invite VIPs to an in-store event:
Attention VIPs: We’ve reserved a special gift just for you. Visit us in store this weekend to claim yours. No purchase necessary.
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Suggest complementary products to your customers based on their current or past purchases. Cross-selling and upselling can increase average order value and customer lifetime value – a win-win for both your business and your customers.
[Name], thanks for your purchase of [product]! You might also like [complementary product]. Get [XX]% off with code BUNDLE20. [link]
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Or, you can use this template to encourage someone to explore something else:
Love your new [product], [Name]? Complete the look with our [complementary product]. Click to shop now: [link]
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Let’s be real: people love free stuff. And when you combine the power of giveaways with the immediacy of text message marketing, magic happens.
Think about it: Giveaways are fun and engaging – a surefire way to get people excited about your brand.
Congratulations, [Name]! You’ve been selected as a finalist in our [prize] giveaway. Click to complete your entry: [link]
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You can use this promotional text message to create urgency:
[Name], last chance to enter our [prize] giveaway! Text GIVEAWAY to [12345] before midnight tonight. Good luck!
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“Buy One, Get One” promotions have been around for as long as we can remember, and offer a free item when someone purchases the same item or another of equal or higher value.
Here’s an example of a BOGO promotion:
Hi [Name], we just wanted to let you know that we’re offering an exclusive BOGO deal on select items this weekend only. Don’t miss out! [link]
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Or, here’s one you could use for repeat customers:
Hi [Name], thanks for being a loyal client! Enjoy a BOGO on select services next week only. Call us now to reserve your spot early!
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Looking for some inspiration to kickstart your promotional SMS campaigns? These case studies show the real-world impact of SMS marketing done right.
Vail Resorts, a leading global mountain resort operator, knew they needed to improve their direct channel marketing – specifically targeted mobile marketing – to create a more consistent, personalized experience for each customer.
With Sinch’s help, Vail Resorts created a broader opt-in SMS program that delivered engaging, personalized content to guests.
Matt Reid, Vice President of Omni-Channel Marketing at Vail Resorts, said it best.
“There are ways for us to be more playful in mobile messaging that allow you to grab attention and really come to the front of someone’s phone, rather than being buried in their inbox.”
The result? Stronger relationships and higher sales.
For automobile manufacturers, maintaining strong customer relationships can be challenging due to the lengthy customer life cycle.
Nissan Europe tackled this head-on by partnering with Sinch and Adobe Campaign to make mobile messaging the heart of its customer relations strategy. With personalized Rich SMS campaigns, Nissan Europe can now connect with customers at the right time with relevant information, whether it’s a reminder for routine maintenance or an alert about an exciting new model.
Parfym.se, an established player in the Nordic online beauty retail scene, knew it needed to improve its SMS strategy to stand out during the hectic Black Friday shopping season.
With Sinch’s user-friendly platform, Parfym.se created stunning, personalized landing pages and engaging content that transformed run-of-the-mill SMS promos into immersive, must-click experiences.
The results were incredible: open rates soared above 90%, with most customers engaging with the messages within 15 minutes of receiving them.
When executed with precision and relevance, a well-timed, visually appealing text can be the secret weapon in any retailer’s holiday marketing lineup.
These templates are a great starting point for your SMS marketing strategy. But they’re also just one piece of the puzzle – choosing the right SMS provider and understanding the importance of an SMS API is key to getting started on the right foot.
But that’s easier than you think. With Sinch, you can be up and running in just a few simple steps:
Sign up today and start sending promotional text messages that will have your customers clicking and converting in no time.
