If you’re a UK-based business trying to stay ahead in today’s crowded market, digital marketing is no longer optional — it’s essential. But here’s the big question: Should you hire an internal marketer or consider outsourcing digital marketing in the UK? For many growing businesses, outsourcing is a smarter, leaner, and more effective path to sustainable results — especially when internal resources are stretched thin.
In this blog, we explore the practical benefits of outsourcing digital marketing in the UK, and why it can be the smarter, leaner, and more results-focused solution — especially for startups, small teams, or growing businesses that don’t want to risk mis-hiring or overpaying for in-house roles.
What Does Outsourcing Digital Marketing Actually Mean?
Outsourcing digital marketing means hiring an external partner — such as a freelancer, consultant, or full-service agency — to manage parts or all of your digital marketing strategy and execution. This can include:
- SEO and content
- Paid social (Meta, LinkedIn, TikTok)
- Google Ads
- Email marketing and automation
- Conversion rate optimisation
- Branding and design
- Website UX & analytics
You maintain ownership and vision, while the outsourced partner brings expertise, tools, and proven frameworks to get results.
Why UK Businesses Are Choosing to Outsource Digital Marketing
Hiring in-house has traditionally been seen as the safe route. But the modern marketing landscape changes fast — and roles that once needed one person now demand the skills of five.
Outsourcing gives you access to a full marketing department without the overheads.
Key advantages of outsourcing digital marketing in the UK:
- Faster execution with experienced specialists
- No recruitment delays or hiring mistakes
- Scalable support as you grow or pivot
- Lower costs than building an internal team
- Access to industry tools and cross-sector insights
- More agility to test channels or launch campaigns
Who Should Consider Outsourcing Digital Marketing?
If any of the below applies to you, outsourcing is worth serious consideration.
1. You’re a Startup or Small Business
You need traction but can’t afford a full-time marketing hire. Outsourcing gives you strategy and delivery from day one.
2. You’ve Tried Hiring, But It Hasn’t Worked Out
If you’ve gone through CVs, interviews, or probation periods — and still don’t have marketing results — an external team can give you momentum quickly.
3. You Have a Team, But Gaps in Skills
Even with an in-house marketer, it’s unlikely they’ll be experts in SEO, paid ads, and CRO. Outsourcing fills those technical gaps.
4. You Need Help Fast
Launching a product? Expanding your services? Outsourcing means skipping the red tape and getting results now.
See “Hiring a Marketing Freelancer vs. an Agency in the UK: What’s Better for Your Business?”
💡 Want to build a full marketing engine without hiring 5 roles? Explore our packages
Cost Comparison: Hiring In-House vs Outsourcing in the UK
Let’s break it down.
| Cost Element | In-House Marketer | Outsourced (e.g. Consultant) |
|---|---|---|
| Salary | £30K–£50K/year | £500–£2,000/month (flexible) |
| Tools & Software | +£200/month | Often included in a retainer |
| Training & Onboarding | Time + cost | Ready-to-go expertise |
| Strategic Support | Often limited | Built-in |
| Time to Impact | 3–6 months | 1–3 weeks |
You don’t just save money — you gain clarity, momentum, and measurable growth.
What Services Can You Outsource?
Almost everything — and it’s often better delivered externally, where niche specialists focus solely on that function.
- SEO Strategy & Content
Get found on Google with tailored on-page and technical optimisation. - PPC & Paid Ads
Facebook, Instagram, Google, LinkedIn — tested, managed, and optimised for ROI. - Email Marketing
Campaigns, sequences, and automations that convert. - Creative & Brand
From visuals to voice — handled by multidisciplinary creative teams. - Landing Pages & Funnels
Conversion-focused pages without bottlenecks.
View our full suite of outsourced marketing services.
Why Work With a UK-Based Outsourced Marketing Team?
Working with a team that knows the UK market ensures relevance, tone, compliance, and strategy aligned to local trends.
- We understand British consumer behaviour
- We’re aware of regional SEO and search behaviour
- We create messaging that resonates with UK audiences
Our team at Business Mate offers flexible, honest, and outcome-driven marketing services for UK businesses looking to grow without unnecessary hiring risks.
🧠 Want expert support, without hiring? Book a free discovery call today
FAQs: Outsourcing Digital Marketing UK
What does outsourcing marketing actually involve?
It means delegating your digital marketing tasks (strategy, content, ads, etc.) to a specialist or agency outside your company. You stay in control of goals, but the execution and insights come from experts.
How much does it cost to outsource digital marketing in the UK?
Costs vary, but you can access consultancy or part-time marketing teams for as little as £500/month — far less than a full-time employee.
Will I still have input if I outsource?
Absolutely. A good agency or consultant will collaborate with you regularly, share reporting, and adapt to your goals.
Can outsourcing work alongside my internal staff?
Yes. Many businesses outsource strategy or niche areas (like ads or SEO), while keeping internal staff focused on content or operations.
Is it suitable for B2B and B2C?
Yes — outsourcing works across sectors, from professional services and SaaS to ecommerce and retail.