TikTok has launched the TikTok Shop in Ireland in partnership with Guaranteed Irish.
The social media platform will serve ‘shoppable’ videos on the For You feeds of TikTok users in Ireland, making it possible for Irish businesses to sell directly through the app.
The ‘LIVE shopping’ feature will allow sellers to interact with TikTok users in real-time through live demonstrations and ‘try-ons’ and offers of exclusive discounts and host giveaways.
TikTok users can click on product links at the bottom of shoppable videos or in LIVE Shopping events.
They will then be directed to a product detail page where they can read the specifications, see shipping and return details and delivery estimates, and make contact with the seller.
To place their order, users can tap ‘Buy now’ to check out immediately or select ‘Add to Cart’ before tapping ‘Place order’ on the ‘Checkout’ page.
TikTok said that TikTok Shop customers would be protected by robust policies and teams of experts that work diligently to ensure the safety of the marketplace.
The company estimates that 2.2m people in Ireland use TikTok every month.
Elaine Fox, head of Ireland at TikTok, said: “We’re thrilled to be opening up TikTok Shop in Ireland so that our Irish users can discover and buy from homegrown Irish brands.
“For local businesses in Ireland, TikTok Shop is like having a bustling market square in the palm of their hand.
“Whether you are a one person business, a national brand or a creator, you can grow your business and income and that’s great news for the Irish economy at large.”
Guaranteed Irish members such as Chapters Bookstore, tanning products maker Cocoa Brown and hair styling products firm Smooth Company are among the brands that will start selling through TikTok this month.
As part of the partnership, TikTok Shop will be offering Guaranteed Irish members access to exclusive support, which will include events and training.
“TikTok Shop represents an incredible opportunity for our retail members to connect with a new generation of shoppers in an innovative and engaging way,” said Brid O’Connell, CEO of Guaranteed Irish.
“By enabling Guaranteed Irish businesses to showcase their products directly to millions of users on TikTok, we are empowering them to reach wider audiences, drive sales, and strengthen their presence in the digital marketplace.
“Our members have access to account managers and content creators, helping convert sales and assist them on this journey. We hope that this platform will be a new way for them to share their stories, highlight their craftsmanship, and connect with customers in real time.”
Other aspects of TikTok Shop include product tiles, customer reviews, and product collections that can be curated by sellers.
Influencers can also avail of an affiliate programme, earning income from businesses by promoting products available on TikTok Shop in short videos and live streams.
Sellers can also advertise to users through TikTok Shop Ads, and TikTok will facilitate “secure checkout” through third-party payment platforms .
Irish-based businesses interested on selling on TikTok Shop can register their interest here, and instructions for registration and onboarding can be found at the TikTok Shop Academy.
(Pic: Getty Images)