How Much Does It Cost to Outsource Marketing UK?

Effective marketing is essential for the growth and success of any company. In this article we will look at How Much Does It Cost to Outsource Marketing in the UK?

However, not all organisations have the in-house expertise, resources, or time to handle their marketing efforts effectively, but still need a small business marketing consultant. As a result, many businesses opt to outsource their marketing activities to specialised agencies or freelancers. Outsourcing marketing offers several advantages, such as accessing expertise, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. However, one crucial factor that every business must consider is the cost involved. In this article, we will explore the various factors that determine the cost of outsourcing marketing and provide insights into the expected expenses.

Update February 2025

In April 2025, employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) will rise from 13.8% to 15%, increasing the cost of hiring staff. Additionally, the secondary threshold for employer NICs will drop from £9,100 to £5,000, meaning more businesses will be liable for higher employment taxes.

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), this change presents a financial strain, especially for those managing tight cash flow and staffing budgets. While some businesses will benefit from an employment allowance increase from £5,000 to £10,500, many will still face increased payroll costs.

One way to avoid these rising costs is to outsource marketing instead of hiring in-house. Outsourced marketing gives SMEs access to expert strategy and execution without the added burden of salaries, pensions, and rising NI contributions.

👉 Read our full blog on how outsourcing marketing can help SMEs cut costs in 2025.

What names are often given to these small business marketing consultants?

Outsourced marketing, often referred to by various names depending on the specific focus or the business needs, is a versatile solution for companies looking to enhance their marketing efforts without the overhead of a full-time, in-house team. This approach is sometimes called fractional CMO services, where a company benefits from the expertise of a Chief Marketing Officer on a part-time basis. Similarly, businesses might seek the assistance of a small business marketing consultant, who provides tailored strategies and guidance, particularly beneficial for smaller enterprises.

Other common terms for this role include marketing consultant, marketing partner, virtual marketing department, or even marketing management services. These professionals offer flexible, cost-effective solutions to help businesses scale their marketing efforts effectively. No matter the title, the goal remains the same: to provide expert marketing support that aligns with a company’s unique goals and budget.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Outsourcing Marketing:

Scope of Services:

The scope of services required plays a significant role in determining the cost of outsourcing marketing. The more extensive the range of services, the higher the cost is likely to be. Some common marketing services include market research, branding, content creation, social media management, search engine optimisation (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, email marketing, and analytics. The complexity and depth of these services will influence the overall cost.

Size and Duration of the Project:

The size and duration of the marketing project will impact the cost of outsourcing. If you have a large-scale, long-term marketing campaign, it will generally involve more resources and effort, leading to higher costs. On the other hand, smaller projects or short-term campaigns may be more cost-effective.

Expertise and Experience:

The expertise and experience of the marketing agency or freelancer will also influence the cost. Established agencies with a proven track record and industry expertise may charge higher rates compared to less experienced or specialised providers. The level of expertise required for your specific industry or target market will affect the pricing structure.

Geographic Location:

Geographic location can play a role in determining the cost of outsourcing marketing. Rates can vary significantly depending on the country or region you choose to outsource to. Agencies or freelancers located in regions with a higher cost of living or stronger economies may have higher hourly rates or project fees.