TikTok Shop added 10 new comic and manga categories, along with autographed items, while enforcing strict authenticity checks. A looming U.S. ban poses challenges.
TikTok Shop launched 10 new categories for collectibles, focusing on comic books, manga, fan zines, and art books. This move strengthens its niche in the booming collectibles market. The shop also added autographed items like jerseys and memorabilia to its entertainment offerings. Merchants listing items must now adhere to strict rules about item condition and provide authentic proof. These changes are designed to attract serious collectors who demand trust and transparency.
TikTok faces stiff competition from giants like Walmart and eBay. Walmart recently debuted its Collector shop, emphasizing pre-orders for rare releases. eBay continues to innovate with trading card events and secure vaults for high-value items. TikTok’s addition of authentication aims to match the confidence these platforms offer. This strategy could make TikTok Shop a viable contender in a market expected to grow to $530B globally by 2030, according to MarketWatch.
Despite growth, TikTok faces potential legal action in the U.S. On Jan. 10, the Supreme Court will hear arguments on a law requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok. This decision could impact TikTok’s future in the country. President-elect Donald Trump has urged the court to pause any ban until his administration reviews the issue. These uncertainties cast a shadow over TikTok Shop’s expansion plans.
Last month, TikTok Shop showed its potential with record sales of $100M during Black Friday. This milestone highlights the platform’s ability to drive e-commerce growth, especially with young, tech-savvy shoppers. By integrating collectibles into its offering, TikTok Shop hopes to build a lasting presence. However, regulatory pressures could influence its trajectory in the U.S., where the collectibles market is fiercely competitive and lucrative.
Would you trust TikTok Shop for high-value collectibles?
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