The process of scrolling on TikTok, choosing a product you like, and pressing two buttons provides the result of buying from TikTok Shop. This platform is becoming users’ favorite way to buy any items they see on their feed, with the best deals. Essentially, the existence of TikTok Shop is redirecting online commerce norms. Social commerce sales are predicted to reach $67.32 billion this year; compared to 2023 statistics ($56.17), having increased 19.9%. Not only does TikTok Shop allow customers to purchase trending items, but it also permits businesses to put themselves on the market and generate profit.
Two effective methods will introduce consumers to the most trending products:
- Following influencers by checking the For You Page, etc
- Making sure the TikTok app is updated
“TikTok Shop allows sellers to sell products through in-feed videos, LIVES, and the Showcase tab. It also enables product discovery, product details, checkout, and post-payment activities all within the app” (CNBC). This platform is so captivating because it’s a very speedy process–there’s not much to it. Customers enjoy it because their information is saved, so in future purchases, they just click the “Check out” button, and their order is confirmed.
TikTok’s algorithm saves user activity and later surfaces popular products that correlate to the user’s views. This is done by pressing the Discovery tab, and all popular hashtags, audios, and accounts will appear on the screen. TikTok’s top trending goods may help entrepreneurs save time, stay on top of trends, and run their businesses effeciently.
TikTok Shop’s ability to drive spontaneous product sales is portrayed when TikTok users say, “TikTok made me buy it.” For instance, it’s very common for users to see a lip gloss and become so drawn to it that they buy it because it’s only $5 (including shipping).
“I bought a lip plumper from TikTok Shop, which took about a week to deliver. The lip plumper itself was very strong, but my feed influenced me,” said senior Mariana Castillo.
A 15-second video can make you want to invest in any product, from food to makeup products to skincare and even clothes.
“I bought a hoodie from TikTok shop because I would see it pop up on my feed. I really liked it, and $20 isn’t that bad for a clothing item”, said senior Alejandro Pasos.
Nonetheless, there are some people who don’t buy the whole concept of TikTok Shop.
“I’ve never been drawn to buy from this platform because, after shipping costs and taxes, the price highly increases,” said senior Rachael Restrepo.
Prices can increase from $5 to $30 at checkout due to all the additional costs, leading some consumers to believe the purchased is not worth it.
For now trending products include:
- Buldak Spicy Ramen 10 Pack: $16.29
- Valentine’s Day Makeup Tool Set: $6.01
- Fashion Zipper Makeup Bag: $3.74-$6.69
- Pink Zircon Ring: $16.92
It is evident from the fusion of TikTok’s famous trends and the creative platform of TikTok Shop that social media and e-commerce have merged to become a sweet spot in consumers’ hearts and wallets everywhere. As TikTok Shop is a mix of entertainment and retail, it manifests the dynamic character of technology and, more specifically, digital culture.
