The Real ROI of Email Marketing for Jamaican SMEs

Written By Dandre Foster
 

Why Email Marketing Still Works in 2025

Many business owners think email marketing is outdated, but that’s a mistake.
Globally, email delivers an average ROI of $36 for every $1 spent (Source: Litmus, 2024). It's one of the most cost-effective ways to stay in front of your customers.

For Jamaican small and medium-sized businesses, email marketing is an underused tool that can boost engagement, drive repeat sales, and increase loyalty.

What Makes Email So Powerful?

  • Direct access to your audience – no algorithm hiding your message

  • Affordable – no need to pay for ads every time

  • Personalized – target different groups based on behaviour or interest

  • Trackable – you can see who opens, clicks, and takes action

Real Use Cases for Local Businesses

  1. Welcome Emails
    For new customers after signing up or buying
    Example: “Thanks for joining us. Here’s what to expect from your membership.”

  2. Promotions and Discounts
    Time-sensitive offers sent directly to inboxes
    Example: “20% off this weekend only. In-store and online.”

  3. Educational Newsletters
    Build trust with useful tips, updates, or resources
    Example: “3 ways to keep your construction site safe this hurricane season.”

  4. Abandoned Cart Emails (for e-commerce)
    Recover lost sales automatically
    Example: “Still thinking it over? Here’s 10% off your order.”

Why It's Better Than Social Media (for Sales)

  • Facebook post reach averages only 5%.

  • Instagram posts disappear quickly without ad spend.

With email, you own the list, and every message gets delivered. That control gives your business a real advantage.

What You Need to Start

  1. An Email Marketing Platform
    Examples: Brevo (Sendinblue), Mailchimp, Klaviyo, Moosend

  2. A Sign-Up Form on Your Website
    Offer a reason to subscribe:

    • A free guide (like a “Brand Audit Handbook”)

    • Exclusive deals

    • First access to services or updates

  3. Automated Workflows
    Set and forget: welcome emails, follow-ups, reminders

  4. A Clean, Branded Design
    Use your colours, fonts, and logo to maintain consistency

ROI Snapshot: What to Expect

Here’s what email marketing can help you achieve in just 3 months:

  • Increase repeat customers by 15–25%

  • Collect useful customer data for better targeting

  • Maintain brand awareness without spending on ads

What You Can Do Next

  1. Choose a platform like Brevo or Mailchimp.

  2. Add an email opt-in form to your website.

  3. Offer a valuable freebie to encourage sign-ups.

  4. Start sending one email per week with value-based content.

Final Thoughts

Email marketing helps you stay connected, drive sales, and grow your business, all while building long-term relationships. If you’re not using email in 2025, you’re missing out on one of the most profitable tools available.

Sources:

  • Campaign Monitor – Email ROI Guide

  • Litmus – Email Marketing ROI Report 2024