TikTok helped New York's small businesses make $1.8 billion

The article discusses the impact of TikTok on local businesses, highlighting a phenomenon dubbed the "TikTok effect." According to research, over 438,000 businesses in New York State use the app, and a significant majority reported increased sales. These small businesses leveraged TikTok's vast reach to attract new customers and investors, contributing approximately $1.8 billion to the state's economy. Owners shared experiences of how the platform drove foot traffic, engagement, and even hiring, illustrating TikTok's pivotal role in the survival and growth of mom-and-pop shops.

According to a social media platform, 438,000 businesses in New York State use TikTok, and 91% of them reported an increase in sales from the app.

"Almost every day, people come into the shop or stop me on the street because they saw us on TikTok," said Amaurys Grullon, who runs the clothing store Bronx Native.

Read at Time Out New York