Hi all,

I have set up an SMS marketing site called TxtLocal.com (http://www.txtlocal.com).  The site is new, and I am getting a lot of good feedback from interested customers and also a lot of interest in the reseller scheme (see Startups.co.uk Offers forum for details).

The idea is that any business, service or community group in the UK can get their own mobile number and keyword.  This is free for life, no setup costs, no recurring fees.  Using this number they can build their list of opt-in customers who are keen to hear about news and promotions.  Once this list has grown all the businesses had to do is log on to TxtLocal and send SMS messages directly to their customers pocket from just 5.5p each (eg. "show this message on Wednesday to get a 20% dicount on your meal").

TxtLocal is unique because it offers a very simple way to get your own inbound mobile number, offers among the lowest prices for SMS in the UK and is directly targeted at small businesses.  I have put feedback from some of my existing customers on the homepage.

SMS marketing is very powerful.  It enables businesses to target their promotions directly to customers who have chosen to receive it.  It is instant, very low cost and very effective.  Sadly, premium SMS services like Crazy Frog are harming the industry.  With TxtLocal I hope to show that SMS, if used correctly, is a very cost effective and fair way of getting information to customers.

Anyway, now I need some help with marketing the idea.  I have submitted press releases to PrWeb which generated little interested.  I sent 100 letters to local businesses, which had about 6 replies... I understand that this is quite high for a direct mail campaign? 

My biggest problem is that I have a full time job already and have little time to do face-to-face meetings with local businesses.  I believe my best option will be to make press releases in conjunction with some of my most successful customers, do you agree?

I have a limited funds at the moment, so I need to find ways to make a big impact with the lowest cost.  Any ideas will be much appreciated!

Thanks,

Al Shortland
TxtLocal.com