Social media platforms like TikTok have turned the digital landscape into a feast of creativity, spontaneity, and, most importantly, opportunity. Viral trends now transcend the borders of online space, influencing everything from consumer behavior to purchasing decisions. But what if we told you that TikTok trends could drive physical store foot traffic and revive brick-and-mortar sales?
This blog explores how small business owners, retail managers, and marketing professionals can leverage TikTok’s viral trends to breathe new life into their storefronts. Read on to learn actionable strategies, inspiring examples, and why it’s time to merge Main Street with the world of short-form videos.
Why TikTok Trends Matter for Retailers
TikTok’s algorithm is designed to reward engaging and creative content. What starts as a simple 15-second video of a quirky product, unique service, or comedic skit can rack up millions of views overnight. But the impact doesn’t stop there. TikTok trends convert directly into real-world action. According to research by TikTok, 74% of its users say they are inspired to learn more about a product after seeing it on the platform.
For retail businesses, this means one key takeaway: TikTok isn’t just a digital phenomenon; it’s a tool to get people in your door and queues at your register.
Real-World Success Stories
- The “Pink Sauce” Craze
A homemade bright-pink dipping sauce went viral in 2022, encouraging food lovers everywhere to hunt it down. Retailers who stocked the product after the viral TikTok saw an immediate spike in foot traffic. Small specialty stores leveraged the trend, posting videos of the sauce on their shelves, which prompted excited customers to visit.
- Barnes & Noble and “BookTok”
Brick-and-mortar bookstores across the nation saw increased sales after TikTok’s #BookTok community began sharing their must-read lists. Barnes & Noble locations started creating “BookTok-approved” aisles, encouraging TikTok influencers to physically visit stores to film content. The result? Both new and returning customers flocked to B&N to grab the latest viral reads.
The Opportunity for Small Retailers
If major brands like Barnes & Noble can drive sales and foot traffic with TikTok trends, small businesses, too, have enormous potential in this space. TikTok trends are accessible, affordable, and creatively limitless.
How to Leverage TikTok Trends for Brick-and-Mortar Success
1. Follow TikTok Trends Regularly
To capitalize on TikTok traction, you need to stay updated on what’s trending. Spend time scrolling your “For You” page to uncover trending sounds, hashtags, and challenges.
- Use hashtags like #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt and #TrendingNow to monitor content that resonates with audiences.
- Engage with influential TikTok creators in your niche and observe their content strategies.
Being proactive rather than reactive ensures you’re ready to integrate trends while they’re still in full swing.
2. Feature Your Product or Store in On-Trend Content
TikTok thrives on creativity. Record short, entertaining videos that incorporate your product or store into trending content. Here are examples:
- Use a trending sound to showcase your products in action.
- Record a behind-the-scenes look at your store setup with an engaging soundtrack.
Remember, authenticity matters! TikTok users engage more with relatable, approachable businesses than highly polished corporate content.
3. Encourage User-Generated Content
Invite your customers to be part of the trend. Consider creating challenges or incentives to get people posting about your store. For instance:
- Offer a small discount or loyalty points for customers who post a TikTok inside your store and tag you.
- Create a branded challenge featuring your product, like a unique hashtag dance or a “first reaction” video series when customers see your shop for the first time.
User-generated TikToks are not only excellent promotion tools but also help your store become part of a broader conversation.
4. Highlight Limited-Time Offers
TikTok trends thrive on urgency. Utilize this by promoting limited-time products or experiences exclusively available in-store.
For instance:
- Run pop-up events based on a hot trend (like a special drink or product).
- Post TikToks announcing exclusive offers for those who visit your store. Use captions like, “Only for the next 48 hours, find your viral favorite here!”
Urgency creates buzz and drives customers to visit, fearing they’ll miss out on the opportunity.
Why Your TikTok Presence Strengthens Community
Beyond sales, TikTok content also fosters a community. Savvy businesses are using the platform to connect meaningfully with customers:
- Highlight Local Collaborations
Are you collaborating with other local creators, influencers, or small businesses? Show it on TikTok!
For example, a bakery could partner with a local coffee shop, blending TikTok trending recipes for a viral pastry-coffee combo.
- Celebrate Store Events and Faces
Post TikToks of employee stories, behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, or customer shoutouts.
By investing in your TikTok content (that’s authentic and locally focused), your brand feels approachable and inclusive. Plus, the feeling of connection often translates into repeat customers.
Taking Your Brick-and-Mortar Strategy Online
To maximize TikTok’s potential, you’ll also want a seamless online-to-offline strategy:
- Add your TikTok handle to in-store signage and receipts, encouraging customers to follow you.
- Sync your website with your physical store offerings. When customers see a product on TikTok, they should have the option to find it in-store or online.
- Use TikTok Ads strategically to drive campaigns targeting your shop’s local region.
The Time to Act is Now
Viral TikTok trends are more than just fleeting internet phenomena. For modern-day retailers, they’re an innovative gateway to increasing foot traffic, driving brand awareness, and boosting sales. With the right strategy, even small businesses can turn TikTok into a valuable tool for Main Street success.
Take a cue from businesses already redefining how retail operates in the digital age. Start watching the trends. Plan your content. And make TikTok users click “Follow,” check your store’s location, and visit your aisles (or booths).
About The Pomona Chamber of Commerce
At the Pomona Chamber of Commerce, our mission is to keep you up to date with the most relevant developments in business management and administration so you and your company can take advantage of new opportunities.
Contact us by email (info@pomonachamber.org) telephone (909-622-1256), social media, or click on this link to join and start enjoying the benefits of membership today.
