TikTok forms SME Council in UK to help shape local policies

Video-based social media platform TikTok has announced the launch of its first council for small-to-medium businesses in the UK, as it looks to establish a means to amplify entrepreneurs’ voices to local policymakers.

The SME Council is made up of 20 small businesses that are using TikTok as a platform to reach new customers and sell their products, the tech firm said in a release. This involves the use of Live Shopping via TikTok Shop, as well as shoppable ads.

Alongside haircare brands, food specialists and lifestyle retailers, other businesses joining the council include luxury resale platform Luxe Collective, which reported a 20 percent uptick in revenue following its launch via TikTok Shop; and Virgo Boutique, a London-based online fashion retailer that exhibits new arrivals, styling tips and customer reviews on its TikTok account.

As part of the council’s mission is that of formulating the first TikTok SME Manifesto, which will outline practical requests to policymakers with the goal of boosting growth for such businesses. This will also leverage TikTok’s growing network of SME businesses, which are increasingly taking to the site to promote their products and services.

In a release, Ali Law, director of public policy and government affairs at TikTok UK, said: "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.

“It's 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're 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."