As Black Friday approaches, businesses need to brace for significant changes in the shopping landscape, with TikTok Shop gaining influence. Logistics experts at Speedy Parcels are advising companies to prepare for potential order backlogs, as a staggering 73% of UK TikTok users are expected to make purchases via TikTok this season.
The Rise of TikTok Shop in eCommerce
Driven primarily by younger consumers, TikTok has transformed from a social media platform into a major eCommerce channel with TikTok Shop. The spontaneity and trend-driven nature of TikTok Shop offer a fast and engaging shopping experience, contributing to a rise in online order volumes even amid a slow business climate.
Research highlights that TikTok shoppers are motivated by:
- Cheaper prices (66%)
- Impulse buying (33%)
- Convenience (29%)
With deals and products just a few clicks away, TikTok has become a key player in influencing online shopping behaviour, particularly among Gen Z.
Early Black Friday Deal Searches: A Sign to Get Ready
Despite Black Friday being set for November 29th, nearly a third (31%) of Brits have already started searching for deals. This early consumer interest signals that businesses must be prepared to handle a surge in demand.
Speedy Parcels emphasises that TikTok trends are shaping buying habits, and businesses need to pay attention. TikTok’s viral content can quickly turn into shopping frenzies, making it a powerful digital marketplace.
Black Friday Logistics Challenges: The Risk of Delivery Delays
Last year, 60% of Black Friday shoppers faced delivery delays, highlighting the importance of smooth logistics. If businesses don’t plan for the increased demand, they risk frustrating customers with delayed deliveries.
Peter Board, Sales Director at Speedy Parcels, warns that this year’s Black Friday could be even more challenging due to TikTok’s influence. Companies that don’t prepare in advance could face logistical headaches, including delays and missed deliveries.
Expert Tips to Prepare for Black Friday
To help businesses navigate the Black Friday rush, Peter Board shares three essential logistics tips:
1. Secure Capacity with Carriers
Businesses should lock in agreements with reliable carriers well in advance to ensure they have the capacity to meet the increased demand. Securing carrier availability early reduces the risk of last-minute shortages and delivery delays.
2. Forecast Your Volume Accurately
Precise forecasting is critical. Businesses need to provide carriers with detailed information about expected order volumes, including any seasonal variations. For example, if your orders jump from 100 parcels in June to 250 in November due to gifting trends, sharing these figures allows carriers to allocate the necessary resources.
3. Plan for Backup
Consider working with a multi-carrier service like Speedy Parcels, which provides flexibility and access to multiple carriers at short notice. This strategy ensures deliveries remain on track, even if one carrier experiences delays.
Flexibility is the Key to Success
Preparation and flexibility are essential for businesses to thrive during Black Friday. Those who plan ahead and build adaptability into their logistics strategies will avoid delays and keep customers satisfied.
Prepare Now with Speedy Parcels to Avoid Delays
Success during Black Friday depends on forward planning and flexibility. A multi-carrier approach supported by clear forecasting and early bookings ensures your parcels are delivered on time, even during periods of high demand.
Speedy Parcels helps businesses manage peak periods with tailored parcel delivery solutions, reliable carrier partnerships, and expert account management.
