This is a big move from TikTok.
TikTok is testing a new integration with various affiliate programs.
The integration enables creators to add product links from Amazon, Walmart, Target, LTK, Rakuten, impact.com, Temu, Expedia Group, and more.
🤔 How It Works:
1️⃣During the video publishing process, eligible creators can use a ‘Add Product Link’ option and insert the URL for an affilate product link from one of the affiliate programs.
2️⃣ Once the video is published and reviewed, the product link appears at the top of the comment section via a ‘Related Product | Click to View’ label.
Note: This differs from TikTok Shop product tags, which are prominently displayed above the creator’s handle and overlaid on the video itself.
3️⃣ When viewers click the link and make a purchase, the creator earns a commission.
🤔 Why It Matters:
With this update, TikTok is making another significant move in its shopping ambitions.
While TikTok Shop—its native commerce solution—continues to grow, the platform is expanding its shopping capabilities by partnering with major affiliate players.
These partnerships include household names like Amazon, Walmart, and Target, as well as creator-favorite affiliate platforms like LTK.
Though TikTok Shop remains the platform’s primary focus, this new integration adds flexibility and benefits for everyone involved:
💰 Creators gain another way to earn through their organic videos via affiliate commissions.
Instead of relying on link-in-bio tools or promo codes, they can use this seamless, native functionality, making it easier for viewers to discover and purchase products—and for creators to earn.
🛍️ Affiliate partners benefit from a smoother path to purchase, increasing the likelihood that viewers make purchases through affiliate links—generating more revenue for them and the brands they support.
🛒 While it’s unclear if TikTok will take a cut of sales generated through this integration, doing so could create a meaningful new revenue stream.
Even without direct earnings, this makes TikTok even more attractive to brands, affiliate platforms, and creators, and highlights the increasing role that TikTok and everyday creators are playing in social commerce.
📧 I’ll be diving into this more in my next newsletter — sign up here for free: https://lnkd.in/ePw7H66j
