The Evolution of Social Commerce

Hlobisile Lukhele
2 min readJan 25, 2024

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So here’s the thing, remember the days when Facebook Marketplace was the go-to for social commerce, enabling users not only to buy online but also to purchase from trusted friends and maintain constant communication? That was just the beginning of the e-commerce revolution within the social media landscape.

The Early Days of Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace set the standard, creating a space where users could seamlessly buy and sell while fostering a sense of trust among friends. However, as technology progressed, so did the landscape of social commerce.

Today, social commerce has evolved into a dynamic and innovative feature on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. These platforms have elevated the e-commerce experience, allowing users to effortlessly transition from admiring a product to purchasing without ever leaving the app.

Picture this: with just a click, you can browse, select, and purchase an item, all within the confines of your favorite social media app. This level of convenience has significantly reduced the traditional friction associated with online shopping, turning it into a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Who would have imagined that a short-form video app could rival established e-commerce giants? TikTok has disrupted the norm by seamlessly blending entertainment, education, and e-commerce into a single platform. This unexpected twist has redefined the shopping experience, marking a new chapter in the e-commerce landscape.

The TikTok Advantage:

TikTok’s success in the social commerce realm can be attributed to its unique approach. By integrating engaging content, educational snippets, and the ability to make purchases, TikTok has created an all-in-one platform that caters to the modern consumer’s preferences.

The emergence of social commerce is not merely a trend but a significant shift in how people engage with e-commerce. It signifies a departure from the traditional methods of online shopping to a more integrated and personalized experience.

As we reflect on the evolution from Facebook Marketplace to the unexpected dominance of TikTok in the social commerce arena, it’s evident that innovation knows no bounds. The convergence of entertainment, education, and e-commerce on social media platforms marks a new era in the e-commerce landscape. The question now is, what’s next for social commerce, and how will it continue to reshape our online shopping experiences? Stay tuned as the journey unfolds, promising more exciting developments in the ever-evolving world of social commerce.

You can read more on Tech,Productivity and Things Newsletter.

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Hlobisile Lukhele
Hlobisile Lukhele

Written by Hlobisile Lukhele

Fronted developer| Technical Writer | a little Poetic | Deep house enthusiast

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