If you’re a UK-based advertiser or influencer looking to crack the Italy market in 2025, understanding WhatsApp advertising rates is your first step. WhatsApp is no joke in Italy — it’s the go-to messaging app with over 90% penetration among smartphone users. That means any social media play that skips WhatsApp is leaving serious money on the table.
In this deep-dive, we’ll unpack the full-category advertising rate card for WhatsApp in Italy as of June 2025, tailored for UK marketers who want to scale their campaigns with localised precision. We’ll cover pricing, payment preferences, legal considerations, and even throw in some homegrown UK examples to keep it real.
📢 Why Italy WhatsApp Advertising Matters in 2025
Italy’s digital scene is buzzing, but it’s not Facebook or Instagram stealing the show here — WhatsApp rules. According to recent data from June 2025, 92% of Italians aged 18-45 actively use WhatsApp daily. For UK brands eyeing Europe, this is a no-brainer channel, especially for direct, conversational marketing.
Unlike the UK where influencer marketing often leans on Instagram Reels or TikTok, in Italy, WhatsApp marketing blends group chats, broadcast lists, and status updates. It’s less about public posts and more about personalised, permission-based messaging, which means your ad spend needs to reflect that intimacy.
💡 WhatsApp Advertising Categories and Rates in Italy 2025
Let’s break down the full-category rate card for WhatsApp advertising in Italy. These rates reflect 2025 prices as of June and are quoted in Euros (€), but we’ll translate to GBP (£) to keep UK advertisers grounded.
| Advertising Category | Description | Price Range (EUR) | Price Range (GBP approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sponsored Status Ads | Short video/image ads appearing in WhatsApp Status | €500 – €1,200 per 24h | £440 – £1,050 |
| Broadcast Message Campaigns | Mass messaging to opt-in contact lists | €0.03 – €0.07 per message | £0.026 – £0.06 |
| Chatbot Engagement Ads | Automated conversational ads via WhatsApp Business API | €800 – €1,500 per campaign | £700 – £1,310 |
| Influencer WhatsApp Takeover | Influencers managing WhatsApp groups for brand promo | €1,000 – €2,500 per week | £880 – £2,200 |
| Sponsored Sticker Packs | Custom sticker packs branded for campaigns | €1,500 – €3,000 per pack | £1,310 – £2,620 |
Notes on pricing
- Rates vary by region within Italy, with Milan and Rome commanding a premium.
- Minimum campaign durations often apply, especially for sponsored status ads.
- UK advertisers typically pay via international bank transfer or platforms like Wise, favouring GBP conversion.
📊 Italy WhatsApp Advertising Compared to UK Social Media Rates
To put things into perspective, Instagram Story ads in the UK typically cost around £300–£800 per day for mid-tier campaigns. WhatsApp ads in Italy might seem higher upfront, but remember: the open rates on WhatsApp campaigns can hit 90%, compared to 15-25% on Instagram. This means better engagement and ROI, especially for brands ready to do the legwork on localisation and consent.
UK-based brands like Gymshark have begun experimenting with WhatsApp marketing in Europe, pairing their influencer strategy with direct messaging to boost ecommerce sales. It’s a solid playbook if you’re selling lifestyle or fashion goods.
❗ Legal and Payment Considerations for UK Advertisers
Navigating Italy’s data privacy landscape is crucial. Italian GDPR enforcement is strict, particularly around unsolicited messages. WhatsApp marketing must be opt-in only — no mass spam allowed. Using WhatsApp Business API with proper consent records is non-negotiable.
Payments for Italian campaigns are usually settled in Euros. UK advertisers should account for FX fees and prefer payment methods that offer transparent exchange rates. Wise and Revolut are popular among marketers for smooth GBP to EUR transfers.
📢 People Also Ask
What is the average cost of WhatsApp advertising in Italy in 2025?
Average costs vary by format: sponsored status ads cost between €500-€1,200 per day, while broadcast messages range from €0.03 to €0.07 per message. Influencer takeovers can run up to €2,500 weekly.
How can UK brands pay for WhatsApp ads in Italy?
Most accept payments via bank transfer or platforms like Wise/Revolut. Paying in Euros is standard, so budget for currency conversion.
Is WhatsApp advertising legal in Italy under GDPR?
Yes, but only if you have explicit user consent. WhatsApp marketing must comply with GDPR and Italian data protection laws to avoid hefty fines.
💡 Pro Tips for UK Advertisers Eyeing Italy on WhatsApp
- Localise your messaging — Italians appreciate personalised, warm communication, not cold sales pitches.
- Partner with Italian micro-influencers — They know how to engage groups on WhatsApp and can run takeovers or broadcast campaigns effectively.
- Use WhatsApp Business API for automation — It helps scale personalised replies without sounding robotic.
- Keep an eye on timing — Italians are active on WhatsApp mostly during lunch and evenings, so schedule your campaigns accordingly.
- Respect consent rigorously — Your UK GDPR experience helps, but check Italy-specific rules too.
Final Thoughts
As of June 2025, WhatsApp advertising in Italy is a goldmine for UK brands willing to move beyond the usual social media suspects. The rate card might look a bit steep compared to Instagram or TikTok, but the engagement and conversion potential are off the charts — especially when you combine localised content, influencer partnerships, and legal compliance.
BaoLiba will keep updating the UK market on Italy’s influencer and social media trends, so keep an eye out for our next deep-dives. If you want to win in Italy’s WhatsApp scene, start planning now — the market waits for no one.
