TikTok shuts down its semi-closed-loop mode, and Shopify responds

Recently, TikTok updated the FAQ page of its official website . Its US Storefront plug-in (semi-closed loop mode) will be officially launched on September 12. This plug-in allows Shopify sellers to place Shopify product links in the shopping cart or homepage showcase of TikTok video content. Users can click the link to go to the independent site to purchase.

According to TikTok , the move is aimed at creating a native, engaging and entertaining shopping experience that enables sellers to meaningfully interact with customers and grow their businesses.

But for sellers, the closure of the plug-in means that TikTok will no longer direct traffic to sellers' independent sites and other external platforms.

In response to TikTok's move, Shopify announced the launch of a new plug-in integrated into TikTok Shop, through which Shopify US sellers will be able to integrate with TikTok.

In addition, the new plug-in also provides sellers with a control panel on Shopify so that sellers can view their sales data on TikTok. Previously, when sellers used the Storefront plug-in, they had to transmit information to the Shopify platform through third-party software.

It is reported that the Storefront plug-in was launched in the United States and the United Kingdom in 2021. This feature not only allows Shopify sellers to integrate links to TikTok, but also allows other online stores such as BigCommerce, Ecwid or Square to achieve the same function. Similarly, the closure of the plug-in also means that merchants on these platforms have lost the opportunity to display their products on TikTok.

In recent years, social commerce has been a focus of Shopify, which has called it one of the fastest-growing sales channels for platform sellers. In addition to TikTok, Shopify has also cooperated with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, and Spotify to help its sellers promote and sell their products through more social media.

In addition to launching new plug-ins, Shopify recently reached an agreement with its "old rival" Amazon, allowing Shopify's US sellers to use Amazon's "Buy with Prime" service.

TikTok

Shopify

Plugins