TikTok Shop, the eCommerce division of the popular social media platform TikTok, is set to expand its operations into France, Germany, and Italy on Monday. This move marks a significant step in TikTok’s European growth strategy, following its initial launch in the United Kingdom in 2021.
In preparation for the launch, TikTok has been collaborating with local merchants to ensure a diverse range of products is available to users from day one. In France, notable partners include supermarket chain Carrefour, while in Germany, fast-fashion retailer AboutYou and cosmetics brand Cosnova are set to join the platform. Additionally, several French brands are supporting the launch as well.
Jan Wilk, head of operations at TikTok Shop UK, expressed optimism about the accelerated rollout in these new markets.
“In France, Germany, and Italy, we are already working with merchants to get their products listed on the platform and TikTok Shop will be available to our TikTok users from next Monday. My own expectation for Europe is to launch with more speed than we did in the UK, because in the UK four years ago this model was very new. We had to do a lot of education, we had to try out a lot of things to get the right fit,” Wilk stated.
TikTok Shop is known for its innovative approach to eCommerce, integrating livestream selling where users can promote products ranging from sneakers to eyeshadow and earn commissions on sales. While the platform has gained a reputation for discounted products, Wilk emphasized a commitment to diversifying the product range and price points. He highlighted the sale of second-hand Birkin bags, a luxury goods store on TikTok, as an example of this diversification.
This European expansion comes at a time when TikTok faces uncertainty in the United States. Despite these challenges, TikTok Shop continues to pursue growth opportunities in new markets, aiming to replicate and build upon its successes in the UK and beyond.