TikTok has launched its first SME Council in the UK to boost small businesses, including those in the hair and beauty industry.
Around 20 business owners from across the country will be part of the group with the goal of promoting the voices of smaller companies with policymakers.
Among these are Birmingham-based affordable wig brand Hair Anatomy and sleep-focused health and wellness company Levitex, which is headquartered in Manchester, UK.
The council, which had its first meeting this month, will produce a TikTok SME manifesto outlining proactive policy requests to the government with the aim of “turbocharging” growth, developing skills and fostering entrepreneurship.
“TikTok gives small businesses the opportunity to be discovered by new communities, the creative tools to engage authentically and, ultimately, the chance to put their products in the hands of an ever-growing number of UK consumers,” said Ali Law, Director of Public Policy and Government Affairs at TikTok UK.
“It is why SMEs across the country come to TikTok every day to share their passions, reach new customers and grow their businesses.
“By launching our new SME Council, we are taking our support of these businesses beyond the TikTok app, giving them a platform to call for policies that will unlock the next phase of their growth.”
Natural skin care business Solo Skin London, Dog supplement and grooming brand Herbal Dog Co, and hair extension specialist Kerry-Ann Buckell.
TikTok Shop was found to be the fastest growing retailer in 2024, according to a report from Neilson IQ.
In the UK, the number of people shopping on the platform grew 131% annually and revenue increased 180%.
It hosts more than 6,000 TikTok Shop Lives in the UK each day.
TikTok launched its shopping platform in the UK in 2023 and recently announced its roll out in three new markets in Europe – France, Germany and Italy.
The British Beauty Council, which Cosmetics Business and sister title Pure Beauty became a patron of this week, is working with TikTok Shop on a programme of content and events designed to upskill its partners and patrons on how best to utilise the platform.