Does Email Marketing Still Work? (2025 Update)
Don’t Overlook This Highly Effective Marketing Tool
In an age of social media algorithms, AI-generated content, and short-form video domination, many business owners are left wondering: Does email marketing still work? The short answer? Yes – more than ever.
Despite being one of the oldest digital marketing strategies, email marketing continues to deliver incredible ROI, deeper customer engagement, and full control over your audience. Let’s break down why email marketing is far from dead – and how you can make it work harder for your business in 2025.
Why Email Marketing Still Works
1. Email Delivers the Highest ROI of Any Marketing Channel
According to recent data, email marketing generates an average ROI of £42 for every £1 spent. That’s higher than any other digital marketing method, including paid social ads and influencer campaigns.
What makes email so effective?
- You own your list – unlike your social followers.
- It’s a direct line to your customer’s inbox.
- You can personalise messaging at scale.
2. People Still Check Email Daily
While social media trends come and go, email remains constant. Most users check their inbox multiple times a day, especially on mobile. With the right subject line and value-packed content, you can consistently stay top-of-mind.
3. It Builds Long-Term Relationships
Unlike fleeting social content, email allows for nurturing relationships over time. From welcome sequences to weekly newsletters and product launches, email lets you guide subscribers through your brand journey at their own pace.
What’s Changed in Email Marketing (And How to Adapt)
While email marketing is still effective, the strategies that work in 2025 look different from even just a few years ago.
- Automation is Key
Modern email platforms (like ConvertKit, Flodesk, and MailerLite) allow you to create behavior-triggered automations that send the right message at the right time. This improves open rates, clicks, and conversions. - Quality > Quantity
Gone are the days of blasting generic emails to your entire list. Today, success comes from segmenting your audience and sending relevant, value-driven content. - Mobile Optimisation is a Must
Over 70% of email opens happen on mobile devices. Your emails must be clean, scannable, and mobile-responsive to perform well.
Email Marketing vs. Social Media: Which is Better?
You don’t need to choose one or the other – but if you had to, email offers far more control.
| Feature | Email Marketing | Social Media |
|---|---|---|
| Audience ownership | Yes | No |
| Algorithm changes | No impact | Affects reach |
| Personalization | High | Limited |
| ROI | Proven high ROI | Lower average |
If you’re building a brand, email should be your marketing foundation – with social as a supplement, not the other way around.
If you’re building a brand, email should be your marketing foundation – with social as a supplement, not the other way around.
How to Make Email Marketing Work for You
Ready to make email a growth engine for your business? Here are a few proven tips:
- Offer a compelling lead magnet (like a checklist or freebie) to grow your list.
- Nurture new subscribers with a welcome series.
- Send regular value-based content – not just sales pitches.
- Test subject lines, CTAs, and layouts to optimise engagement.
- Keep your list clean by removing inactive subscribers regularly.
Final Thoughts: Yes, Email Marketing Still Works – If You Do It Right
So, does email marketing still work in 2025? Absolutely. But like any strategy, it requires intention, consistency, and a focus on the customer experience.
If you’re tired of chasing algorithm updates and want to build a sustainable business, email marketing is your best ally.
To find out how we can help grow your business, contact us here.