For our 2024 DTC expectations study, we gathered insights from eCommerce managers and directors to understand how they see eCommerce and social platforms affecting brands as the industry evolves.
Shopify, with its rapid advancements, and TikTok, with its continued growth, were predicted to impact brands the most. This blog takes a closer look at how these platforms can help you reach your growth objectives.
Shopify continues to be a dominant force in eCommerce, consistently introducing features that enhance online selling. The 2024 Summer Editions introduced over 150 updates, reaffirming Shopify’s role as the go-to platform for brands seeking growth. Here’s a list of our experts top five recent enhancements:
Shopify has centralised cross-border, B2B, and in-person selling configurations into a single command centre within the Shopify admin. This new Markets feature provides a comprehensive view of all expansion efforts, allowing brands to make informed decisions about international sales strategies.
Shopify's AI-powered tools are continually evolving to transform brand operations. The improved Sidekick AI assistant offers contextual guidance based on store data, aiding in tasks such as setting up discounts and understanding best practices.
Enhanced AI capabilities include AI image generation in the Online Store Editor and Email Editor for creating professional images quickly, real-time customer support through Shopify Inbox to boost conversion rates by up to 69%, and customer segmentation for targeted marketing.
Shopify Magic empowers merchants with advanced AI tools, streamlining operations and enhancing customer engagement through personalised support and efficient content creation.
Recent Shopify POS enhancements include features like one-tap digital receipts, automated customer info collection, and sale attributions that track high-performing staff and manage commissions.
Additionally, automated return policies with manager override options streamline operations. These improvements enhance retail efficiency and ensure a smoother customer experience, supporting better staff performance and customer satisfaction.
Shopify’s revamped analytics provide up-to-the-minute data tailored to each business’s needs. This real-time insight allows brands to make data-driven decisions quickly, optimising business strategies and improving overall performance.
Shopify's Split Shipping feature provides buyers with clear information about their shipping options, enhancing the world’s best checkout experience. Previously, customers only saw one shipping rate and delivery date, even if items were sent in multiple shipments or from different locations.
With Split Shipping, customers can now see if their orders will arrive in multiple shipments, select from various shipping speeds and costs, and customise shipping speeds for each shipment. This feature also allows for more detailed shipping preferences for subscription orders. By offering transparency and control, Split Shipping helps build trust and fosters long-term relationships with customers.
Interested in more of the top updates from this summer’s announcement? Follow this link.
🌎 Global reach: Shopify supports merchants in 175 countries, with over 20 percent of all online merchants using Shopify to power their eCommerce websites.
🛍️ Merchant success: Shopify merchants recorded over $20 billion in cross-border sales in 2020. In 2022, Shopify stores attracted nearly 649 million shoppers.
💳 High conversion rates: Shop Pay, Shopify's accelerated checkout method, has a 72% higher conversion rate compared to regular checkouts, significantly boosting sales for merchants.
📱Mobile commerce: Nearly 70% of all sales on Shopify-powered websites in 2023 were made on mobile devices.
🛒Market penetration: Shopify is the third-largest online retailer in the US, following Amazon and eBay.
💸Economic impact: Shopify merchants contribute over $300 billion in economic activity annually, underscoring the platform's vast scale and influence.
In just a short period of time, TikTok has solidified its presence in social commerce, impacting brand exposure and sales. With over 1.5 billion users as of 2023, the platform continues to grow, expected to reach 1.8 billion users by the end of 2024. This user base is predominantly young and very engaged, making it a prime target for DTC brands trying to connect with Gen Z.
Brands are leveraging TikTok for both brand awareness and direct sales. According to recent studies, 67% of TikTok users have been inspired to shop for a product they saw on the platform, even when they weren’t actively looking to make a purchase. This indicates a strong potential for conversion. Despite this, marketers continue to debate whether TikTok is primarily an exposure tool.
Some industry experts believe that TikTok excels in generating exposure and engaging content but requires a strategic approach to convert that engagement into sales. The effectiveness of TikTok in driving conversions can depend on the brand's ability to integrate shoppable features, and engage with the audience through influencer collaborations and UGC.
User-generated content (UGC) remains a powerful tool on TikTok, despite arguments about its longevity. People argue that UGC continues to thrive on the platform due to its authenticity and relatability, but let’s be honest, this strategy is no longer new and it can be argued that consumers are a lot savvier, with many experiencing ad fatigue.
Brands that harness UGC effectively see higher engagement and trust from their audience, but as the platform and its users evolve, there’s a growing need for marketing teams to innovate their UGC strategies to keep the content fresh and engaging.
Some marketers are now suggesting that brands combine UGC with professional content to maintain balance. This feels like a full circle moment, but makes sense given that many consumers are showing a preference for more traditional, transparent advertising.
TikTok Shop was a significant addition to the platform, enabling users to purchase products directly within the app. This feature has proven to be highly impactful, especially within specific sectors. With 81% of U.S. TikTok Shop sales coming from health and beauty brands, it’s clear that certain categories are made for this style of commerce.
Despite its potential, TikTok Shop's success varies. For some brands, especially those with large marketing budgets and strong influencer partnerships, TikTok Shop offers a unique opportunity to drive sales. For others, particularly smaller brands, it still sits as an exposure tool, helping to build brand awareness and engagement rather than immediate conversions.
📈 Growing user base: TikTok had 1.5 billion monthly active users in 2023, expected to reach 1.8 billion by the end of 2024.
🛒 Influencing purchases: 78% of TikTok users purchased a product after seeing it featured in TikTok creator content.
👥 Gen Z engagement: 43% of Gen Z consumers use TikTok as their starting platform when searching for products.
📊 Enhanced ad performance: Partnering with a TikTok creator on an ad can boost view-through rates by up to 193%.
🔄 Shopping integration: 33.3% of TikTok users made purchases via TikTok Shop in 2023, up from 9.6% in 2022, and this number is expected to increase to 39.9% by 2026.
The rapid advancement of platforms like Shopify and TikTok are reshaping eCommerce, offering new opportunities to connect with customers and drive growth. As Shopify and TikTok evolve, it’s important to stay informed and adaptable, leveraging the latest tools and strategies to remain competitive.
The key to success lies in understanding how these platforms can meet the evolving needs and preferences of your customers. For personalised advice on how to drive growth for your brand, get in touch.
For our 2024 DTC expectations study, we gathered insights from eCommerce managers and directors to understand how they see eCommerce and social platforms affecting brands as the industry evolves.
Shopify, with its rapid advancements, and TikTok, with its continued growth, were predicted to impact brands the most. This blog takes a closer look at how these platforms can help you reach your growth objectives.
Shopify continues to be a dominant force in eCommerce, consistently introducing features that enhance online selling. The 2024 Summer Editions introduced over 150 updates, reaffirming Shopify’s role as the go-to platform for brands seeking growth. Here’s a list of our experts top five recent enhancements:
Shopify has centralised cross-border, B2B, and in-person selling configurations into a single command centre within the Shopify admin. This new Markets feature provides a comprehensive view of all expansion efforts, allowing brands to make informed decisions about international sales strategies.
Shopify's AI-powered tools are continually evolving to transform brand operations. The improved Sidekick AI assistant offers contextual guidance based on store data, aiding in tasks such as setting up discounts and understanding best practices.
Enhanced AI capabilities include AI image generation in the Online Store Editor and Email Editor for creating professional images quickly, real-time customer support through Shopify Inbox to boost conversion rates by up to 69%, and customer segmentation for targeted marketing.
Shopify Magic empowers merchants with advanced AI tools, streamlining operations and enhancing customer engagement through personalised support and efficient content creation.
Recent Shopify POS enhancements include features like one-tap digital receipts, automated customer info collection, and sale attributions that track high-performing staff and manage commissions.
Additionally, automated return policies with manager override options streamline operations. These improvements enhance retail efficiency and ensure a smoother customer experience, supporting better staff performance and customer satisfaction.
Shopify’s revamped analytics provide up-to-the-minute data tailored to each business’s needs. This real-time insight allows brands to make data-driven decisions quickly, optimising business strategies and improving overall performance.
Shopify's Split Shipping feature provides buyers with clear information about their shipping options, enhancing the world’s best checkout experience. Previously, customers only saw one shipping rate and delivery date, even if items were sent in multiple shipments or from different locations.
With Split Shipping, customers can now see if their orders will arrive in multiple shipments, select from various shipping speeds and costs, and customise shipping speeds for each shipment. This feature also allows for more detailed shipping preferences for subscription orders. By offering transparency and control, Split Shipping helps build trust and fosters long-term relationships with customers.
Interested in more of the top updates from this summer’s announcement? Follow this link.
🌎 Global reach: Shopify supports merchants in 175 countries, with over 20 percent of all online merchants using Shopify to power their eCommerce websites.
🛍️ Merchant success: Shopify merchants recorded over $20 billion in cross-border sales in 2020. In 2022, Shopify stores attracted nearly 649 million shoppers.
💳 High conversion rates: Shop Pay, Shopify's accelerated checkout method, has a 72% higher conversion rate compared to regular checkouts, significantly boosting sales for merchants.
📱Mobile commerce: Nearly 70% of all sales on Shopify-powered websites in 2023 were made on mobile devices.
🛒Market penetration: Shopify is the third-largest online retailer in the US, following Amazon and eBay.
💸Economic impact: Shopify merchants contribute over $300 billion in economic activity annually, underscoring the platform's vast scale and influence.
In just a short period of time, TikTok has solidified its presence in social commerce, impacting brand exposure and sales. With over 1.5 billion users as of 2023, the platform continues to grow, expected to reach 1.8 billion users by the end of 2024. This user base is predominantly young and very engaged, making it a prime target for DTC brands trying to connect with Gen Z.
Brands are leveraging TikTok for both brand awareness and direct sales. According to recent studies, 67% of TikTok users have been inspired to shop for a product they saw on the platform, even when they weren’t actively looking to make a purchase. This indicates a strong potential for conversion. Despite this, marketers continue to debate whether TikTok is primarily an exposure tool.
Some industry experts believe that TikTok excels in generating exposure and engaging content but requires a strategic approach to convert that engagement into sales. The effectiveness of TikTok in driving conversions can depend on the brand's ability to integrate shoppable features, and engage with the audience through influencer collaborations and UGC.
User-generated content (UGC) remains a powerful tool on TikTok, despite arguments about its longevity. People argue that UGC continues to thrive on the platform due to its authenticity and relatability, but let’s be honest, this strategy is no longer new and it can be argued that consumers are a lot savvier, with many experiencing ad fatigue.
Brands that harness UGC effectively see higher engagement and trust from their audience, but as the platform and its users evolve, there’s a growing need for marketing teams to innovate their UGC strategies to keep the content fresh and engaging.
Some marketers are now suggesting that brands combine UGC with professional content to maintain balance. This feels like a full circle moment, but makes sense given that many consumers are showing a preference for more traditional, transparent advertising.
TikTok Shop was a significant addition to the platform, enabling users to purchase products directly within the app. This feature has proven to be highly impactful, especially within specific sectors. With 81% of U.S. TikTok Shop sales coming from health and beauty brands, it’s clear that certain categories are made for this style of commerce.
Despite its potential, TikTok Shop's success varies. For some brands, especially those with large marketing budgets and strong influencer partnerships, TikTok Shop offers a unique opportunity to drive sales. For others, particularly smaller brands, it still sits as an exposure tool, helping to build brand awareness and engagement rather than immediate conversions.
📈 Growing user base: TikTok had 1.5 billion monthly active users in 2023, expected to reach 1.8 billion by the end of 2024.
🛒 Influencing purchases: 78% of TikTok users purchased a product after seeing it featured in TikTok creator content.
👥 Gen Z engagement: 43% of Gen Z consumers use TikTok as their starting platform when searching for products.
📊 Enhanced ad performance: Partnering with a TikTok creator on an ad can boost view-through rates by up to 193%.
🔄 Shopping integration: 33.3% of TikTok users made purchases via TikTok Shop in 2023, up from 9.6% in 2022, and this number is expected to increase to 39.9% by 2026.
The rapid advancement of platforms like Shopify and TikTok are reshaping eCommerce, offering new opportunities to connect with customers and drive growth. As Shopify and TikTok evolve, it’s important to stay informed and adaptable, leveraging the latest tools and strategies to remain competitive.
The key to success lies in understanding how these platforms can meet the evolving needs and preferences of your customers. For personalised advice on how to drive growth for your brand, get in touch.
For our 2024 DTC expectations study, we gathered insights from eCommerce managers and directors to understand how they see eCommerce and social platforms affecting brands as the industry evolves.
Shopify, with its rapid advancements, and TikTok, with its continued growth, were predicted to impact brands the most. This blog takes a closer look at how these platforms can help you reach your growth objectives.
Shopify continues to be a dominant force in eCommerce, consistently introducing features that enhance online selling. The 2024 Summer Editions introduced over 150 updates, reaffirming Shopify’s role as the go-to platform for brands seeking growth. Here’s a list of our experts top five recent enhancements:
Shopify has centralised cross-border, B2B, and in-person selling configurations into a single command centre within the Shopify admin. This new Markets feature provides a comprehensive view of all expansion efforts, allowing brands to make informed decisions about international sales strategies.
Shopify's AI-powered tools are continually evolving to transform brand operations. The improved Sidekick AI assistant offers contextual guidance based on store data, aiding in tasks such as setting up discounts and understanding best practices.
Enhanced AI capabilities include AI image generation in the Online Store Editor and Email Editor for creating professional images quickly, real-time customer support through Shopify Inbox to boost conversion rates by up to 69%, and customer segmentation for targeted marketing.
Shopify Magic empowers merchants with advanced AI tools, streamlining operations and enhancing customer engagement through personalised support and efficient content creation.
Recent Shopify POS enhancements include features like one-tap digital receipts, automated customer info collection, and sale attributions that track high-performing staff and manage commissions.
Additionally, automated return policies with manager override options streamline operations. These improvements enhance retail efficiency and ensure a smoother customer experience, supporting better staff performance and customer satisfaction.
Shopify’s revamped analytics provide up-to-the-minute data tailored to each business’s needs. This real-time insight allows brands to make data-driven decisions quickly, optimising business strategies and improving overall performance.
Shopify's Split Shipping feature provides buyers with clear information about their shipping options, enhancing the world’s best checkout experience. Previously, customers only saw one shipping rate and delivery date, even if items were sent in multiple shipments or from different locations.
With Split Shipping, customers can now see if their orders will arrive in multiple shipments, select from various shipping speeds and costs, and customise shipping speeds for each shipment. This feature also allows for more detailed shipping preferences for subscription orders. By offering transparency and control, Split Shipping helps build trust and fosters long-term relationships with customers.
Interested in more of the top updates from this summer’s announcement? Follow this link.
🌎 Global reach: Shopify supports merchants in 175 countries, with over 20 percent of all online merchants using Shopify to power their eCommerce websites.
🛍️ Merchant success: Shopify merchants recorded over $20 billion in cross-border sales in 2020. In 2022, Shopify stores attracted nearly 649 million shoppers.
💳 High conversion rates: Shop Pay, Shopify's accelerated checkout method, has a 72% higher conversion rate compared to regular checkouts, significantly boosting sales for merchants.
📱Mobile commerce: Nearly 70% of all sales on Shopify-powered websites in 2023 were made on mobile devices.
🛒Market penetration: Shopify is the third-largest online retailer in the US, following Amazon and eBay.
💸Economic impact: Shopify merchants contribute over $300 billion in economic activity annually, underscoring the platform's vast scale and influence.
In just a short period of time, TikTok has solidified its presence in social commerce, impacting brand exposure and sales. With over 1.5 billion users as of 2023, the platform continues to grow, expected to reach 1.8 billion users by the end of 2024. This user base is predominantly young and very engaged, making it a prime target for DTC brands trying to connect with Gen Z.
Brands are leveraging TikTok for both brand awareness and direct sales. According to recent studies, 67% of TikTok users have been inspired to shop for a product they saw on the platform, even when they weren’t actively looking to make a purchase. This indicates a strong potential for conversion. Despite this, marketers continue to debate whether TikTok is primarily an exposure tool.
Some industry experts believe that TikTok excels in generating exposure and engaging content but requires a strategic approach to convert that engagement into sales. The effectiveness of TikTok in driving conversions can depend on the brand's ability to integrate shoppable features, and engage with the audience through influencer collaborations and UGC.
User-generated content (UGC) remains a powerful tool on TikTok, despite arguments about its longevity. People argue that UGC continues to thrive on the platform due to its authenticity and relatability, but let’s be honest, this strategy is no longer new and it can be argued that consumers are a lot savvier, with many experiencing ad fatigue.
Brands that harness UGC effectively see higher engagement and trust from their audience, but as the platform and its users evolve, there’s a growing need for marketing teams to innovate their UGC strategies to keep the content fresh and engaging.
Some marketers are now suggesting that brands combine UGC with professional content to maintain balance. This feels like a full circle moment, but makes sense given that many consumers are showing a preference for more traditional, transparent advertising.
TikTok Shop was a significant addition to the platform, enabling users to purchase products directly within the app. This feature has proven to be highly impactful, especially within specific sectors. With 81% of U.S. TikTok Shop sales coming from health and beauty brands, it’s clear that certain categories are made for this style of commerce.
Despite its potential, TikTok Shop's success varies. For some brands, especially those with large marketing budgets and strong influencer partnerships, TikTok Shop offers a unique opportunity to drive sales. For others, particularly smaller brands, it still sits as an exposure tool, helping to build brand awareness and engagement rather than immediate conversions.
📈 Growing user base: TikTok had 1.5 billion monthly active users in 2023, expected to reach 1.8 billion by the end of 2024.
🛒 Influencing purchases: 78% of TikTok users purchased a product after seeing it featured in TikTok creator content.
👥 Gen Z engagement: 43% of Gen Z consumers use TikTok as their starting platform when searching for products.
📊 Enhanced ad performance: Partnering with a TikTok creator on an ad can boost view-through rates by up to 193%.
🔄 Shopping integration: 33.3% of TikTok users made purchases via TikTok Shop in 2023, up from 9.6% in 2022, and this number is expected to increase to 39.9% by 2026.
The rapid advancement of platforms like Shopify and TikTok are reshaping eCommerce, offering new opportunities to connect with customers and drive growth. As Shopify and TikTok evolve, it’s important to stay informed and adaptable, leveraging the latest tools and strategies to remain competitive.
The key to success lies in understanding how these platforms can meet the evolving needs and preferences of your customers. For personalised advice on how to drive growth for your brand, get in touch.
For our 2024 DTC expectations study, we gathered insights from eCommerce managers and directors to understand how they see eCommerce and social platforms affecting brands as the industry evolves.
Shopify, with its rapid advancements, and TikTok, with its continued growth, were predicted to impact brands the most. This blog takes a closer look at how these platforms can help you reach your growth objectives.
Shopify continues to be a dominant force in eCommerce, consistently introducing features that enhance online selling. The 2024 Summer Editions introduced over 150 updates, reaffirming Shopify’s role as the go-to platform for brands seeking growth. Here’s a list of our experts top five recent enhancements:
Shopify has centralised cross-border, B2B, and in-person selling configurations into a single command centre within the Shopify admin. This new Markets feature provides a comprehensive view of all expansion efforts, allowing brands to make informed decisions about international sales strategies.
Shopify's AI-powered tools are continually evolving to transform brand operations. The improved Sidekick AI assistant offers contextual guidance based on store data, aiding in tasks such as setting up discounts and understanding best practices.
Enhanced AI capabilities include AI image generation in the Online Store Editor and Email Editor for creating professional images quickly, real-time customer support through Shopify Inbox to boost conversion rates by up to 69%, and customer segmentation for targeted marketing.
Shopify Magic empowers merchants with advanced AI tools, streamlining operations and enhancing customer engagement through personalised support and efficient content creation.
Recent Shopify POS enhancements include features like one-tap digital receipts, automated customer info collection, and sale attributions that track high-performing staff and manage commissions.
Additionally, automated return policies with manager override options streamline operations. These improvements enhance retail efficiency and ensure a smoother customer experience, supporting better staff performance and customer satisfaction.
Shopify’s revamped analytics provide up-to-the-minute data tailored to each business’s needs. This real-time insight allows brands to make data-driven decisions quickly, optimising business strategies and improving overall performance.
Shopify's Split Shipping feature provides buyers with clear information about their shipping options, enhancing the world’s best checkout experience. Previously, customers only saw one shipping rate and delivery date, even if items were sent in multiple shipments or from different locations.
With Split Shipping, customers can now see if their orders will arrive in multiple shipments, select from various shipping speeds and costs, and customise shipping speeds for each shipment. This feature also allows for more detailed shipping preferences for subscription orders. By offering transparency and control, Split Shipping helps build trust and fosters long-term relationships with customers.
Interested in more of the top updates from this summer’s announcement? Follow this link.
🌎 Global reach: Shopify supports merchants in 175 countries, with over 20 percent of all online merchants using Shopify to power their eCommerce websites.
🛍️ Merchant success: Shopify merchants recorded over $20 billion in cross-border sales in 2020. In 2022, Shopify stores attracted nearly 649 million shoppers.
💳 High conversion rates: Shop Pay, Shopify's accelerated checkout method, has a 72% higher conversion rate compared to regular checkouts, significantly boosting sales for merchants.
📱Mobile commerce: Nearly 70% of all sales on Shopify-powered websites in 2023 were made on mobile devices.
🛒Market penetration: Shopify is the third-largest online retailer in the US, following Amazon and eBay.
💸Economic impact: Shopify merchants contribute over $300 billion in economic activity annually, underscoring the platform's vast scale and influence.
In just a short period of time, TikTok has solidified its presence in social commerce, impacting brand exposure and sales. With over 1.5 billion users as of 2023, the platform continues to grow, expected to reach 1.8 billion users by the end of 2024. This user base is predominantly young and very engaged, making it a prime target for DTC brands trying to connect with Gen Z.
Brands are leveraging TikTok for both brand awareness and direct sales. According to recent studies, 67% of TikTok users have been inspired to shop for a product they saw on the platform, even when they weren’t actively looking to make a purchase. This indicates a strong potential for conversion. Despite this, marketers continue to debate whether TikTok is primarily an exposure tool.
Some industry experts believe that TikTok excels in generating exposure and engaging content but requires a strategic approach to convert that engagement into sales. The effectiveness of TikTok in driving conversions can depend on the brand's ability to integrate shoppable features, and engage with the audience through influencer collaborations and UGC.
User-generated content (UGC) remains a powerful tool on TikTok, despite arguments about its longevity. People argue that UGC continues to thrive on the platform due to its authenticity and relatability, but let’s be honest, this strategy is no longer new and it can be argued that consumers are a lot savvier, with many experiencing ad fatigue.
Brands that harness UGC effectively see higher engagement and trust from their audience, but as the platform and its users evolve, there’s a growing need for marketing teams to innovate their UGC strategies to keep the content fresh and engaging.
Some marketers are now suggesting that brands combine UGC with professional content to maintain balance. This feels like a full circle moment, but makes sense given that many consumers are showing a preference for more traditional, transparent advertising.
TikTok Shop was a significant addition to the platform, enabling users to purchase products directly within the app. This feature has proven to be highly impactful, especially within specific sectors. With 81% of U.S. TikTok Shop sales coming from health and beauty brands, it’s clear that certain categories are made for this style of commerce.
Despite its potential, TikTok Shop's success varies. For some brands, especially those with large marketing budgets and strong influencer partnerships, TikTok Shop offers a unique opportunity to drive sales. For others, particularly smaller brands, it still sits as an exposure tool, helping to build brand awareness and engagement rather than immediate conversions.
📈 Growing user base: TikTok had 1.5 billion monthly active users in 2023, expected to reach 1.8 billion by the end of 2024.
🛒 Influencing purchases: 78% of TikTok users purchased a product after seeing it featured in TikTok creator content.
👥 Gen Z engagement: 43% of Gen Z consumers use TikTok as their starting platform when searching for products.
📊 Enhanced ad performance: Partnering with a TikTok creator on an ad can boost view-through rates by up to 193%.
🔄 Shopping integration: 33.3% of TikTok users made purchases via TikTok Shop in 2023, up from 9.6% in 2022, and this number is expected to increase to 39.9% by 2026.
The rapid advancement of platforms like Shopify and TikTok are reshaping eCommerce, offering new opportunities to connect with customers and drive growth. As Shopify and TikTok evolve, it’s important to stay informed and adaptable, leveraging the latest tools and strategies to remain competitive.
The key to success lies in understanding how these platforms can meet the evolving needs and preferences of your customers. For personalised advice on how to drive growth for your brand, get in touch.