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What is Social Commerce And How can It Help Your Business in 2024

Social Commerce in 2024: Top Platforms, Benefits, and Trends You Need to Know
What is social commerce and how to leverage it for growing your business
What is social commerce and how to leverage it for growing your business
What is social commerce and how to leverage it for growing your business

View More Blogs

E-commerce Insights

What is Social Commerce And How can It Help Your Business in 2024

Social Commerce in 2024: Top Platforms, Benefits, and Trends You Need to Know
What is social commerce and how to leverage it for growing your business
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What is Social Commerce?

Social commerce is the integration of social media platforms with e-commerce, allowing users to discover, research, and purchase products directly within their favorite social networks. 

This trend is gaining momentum as consumers increasingly prefer seamless shopping experiences that don't require them to leave their social media apps. Imagine scrolling through Instagram and spotting a must-have pair of shoes, adding them to your cart, and checking out—all without leaving the app. That's social commerce in action! 

This approach not only enhances the shopping experience but also helps businesses reach a wider audience, increase engagement, and boost conversion rates. As social media usage continues to soar, social commerce is becoming an ESSENTIAL tool for businesses looking to stay competitive and meet consumers where they are.


Total Social commerce sales from 2020 to 2026

(Source: eMarketer via Tidio)

How Social Commerce Works

Social commerce leverages the power of social media platforms to facilitate transactions between businesses and consumers. Popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest have built-in social commerce features that allow users to browse, shop, and purchase products directly within the app.

Businesses can create shoppable posts, stories, and ads that showcase their products and include direct links to purchase. This approach not only simplifies the buying process but also creates a more engaging and interactive shopping experience.

Moreover, it enables businesses to tap into the power of user-generated content, such as reviews and recommendations, to build trust and credibility with potential customers. By harnessing the power of social media, businesses can create a more personalized and effective shopping experience that drives sales and boosts brand awareness.

Best Social Commerce Platforms to Use in 2024

Social commerce continues to grow as platforms like YouTube and TikTok introduce new features, joining the pioneers like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Here’s a quick overview of platforms you should consider testing for social selling this year:

Facebook
Facebook Shops are easy to set up and free, offering businesses a seamless way to sync inventory and sell directly on the platform. Customers can browse and buy within the app, while businesses can handle customer inquiries via Messenger.

Instagram
Instagram Shopping integrates with Facebook Shops, enabling businesses to use Product Tags to make posts and videos shoppable. Users can easily discover and purchase products either in-app or through the brand’s website.

TikTok
TikTok's social commerce tools include shoppable videos and live shopping options within TikTok Shop, allowing brands to sell directly through engaging content and live streams.

Pinterest
Pinterest Shopping allows businesses to tag products in their Pins, simplifying discovery. Though purchases are completed off-platform, the tagged Pins enhance the shopping journey by offering quick access to product information.


Most popular social commerce platforms among digital buyers

(Source: Tidio)

5 Benefits of Social Commerce

  1. Reach a Wider Audience of Potential Customers
    Social commerce leverages over 5 billion global social media users, many of whom discover new brands through these platforms. It facilitates seamless product discovery and purchasing directly within social media apps, enhancing visibility and accessibility. By 2024, half of all social media users in the US are expected to make purchases through these platforms.

  2. Convert Customers Where They Are and Remove Friction
    Social commerce allows customers to make purchases directly on social platforms, eliminating the need to switch apps or websites. This integration simplifies the buying process, reducing barriers and shortening the journey to purchase, thus enhancing user convenience and increasing conversion rates.

  3. Increase Reviews and Recommendations Through Social Proof
    Establishing a presence on social media can help new online sellers accrue crucial social proof. Reviews and customer interactions are central to online shopping, where physical product evaluation isn’t possible. Managing sales and feedback through social media ensures that positive reviews are visible and influential.

  4. Gather Useful Data on Your Customers' Social Habits
    Social commerce provides direct insights into customers’ social media behaviors, offering valuable data that can inform marketing strategies. This access allows businesses to better understand their audience, tailor their approaches, and optimize their engagement and conversion tactics based on real user data.

  5. Drive Additional Revenue Than Traditional Ecommerce
    Projected to significantly outpace traditional e-commerce, social commerce sales in the US are expected to exceed $100 billion by 2025. This growth presents businesses with new opportunities to increase sales and revenue by tapping into the expansive and still-growing market of social media shopping.


Concerns of social media users while doing social shopping

(Source: Hubspot)

History of Social Commerce

According to Yao Zhong in the article, "Social Commerce: A New Electronic Commerce" the initial instance of online consumer marketing occurred in November 2005 on Yahoo! This introduction featured the Shoposphere's pick lists, which showcased trending products.

Social commerce has since evolved to captivate online consumers by providing trustworthy recommendations and guidance from internet-based experts on their shopping choices. Marketing expert Jeff Bullas highlights four leading brands in social commerce:

  • Nordstrom sets trends by marking items in-store with a popular Pinterest tag.

  • Coca-Cola enhances customer engagement by customizing bottle labels and encouraging social media shares with the hashtag #ShareACoke.

  • Starbucks incentivizes customer interaction through rewards for users who achieve Mayor badges on Foursquare.

It’s important to differentiate social commerce from social shopping. Social commerce involves partnerships with online merchants to enhance the shopping experience, whereas social shopping focuses on the communal aspect, where shoppers connect and collaborate online.


Distribution of social commerce spendoing of different generations

(Source: Accenture)

Social Commerce Trends to Watch in 2024

As social commerce continues to evolve, several key trends are shaping its future. One major trend is the increased use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to create immersive shopping experiences. Brands are using AR filters and VR showrooms to allow customers to try on products virtually or explore products in a 3D environment.

Another trend is the rise of live shopping events, where brands host live streams to showcase products and interact with viewers in real time. This creates a sense of urgency and excitement, encouraging viewers to make purchases on the spot. Additionally, the use of micro-influencers is gaining traction as brands seek to build authentic connections with niche audiences.

How Xena Intelligence Can Help

At Xena Intelligence, we understand the power of social commerce and its potential to transform your e-commerce business. Our team of experts can help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media and develop a tailored social commerce strategy that drives results.

Whether you're looking to increase brand awareness, boost sales, or gather valuable customer insights, we have the tools and expertise to help you succeed. By leveraging the latest social commerce trends and technologies, we can help you create a seamless and engaging shopping experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

Ready to take your business to the next level? Contact us today to schedule a meeting and learn how we can help you grow your e-commerce business.

Check out this video to explore key trends like AI, social commerce, and sustainability that are shaping e-commerce in 2024 and beyond!


FAQs

What is social commerce?

Social commerce is the use of social media platforms to promote and sell products and services directly within the app.

How does social commerce benefit businesses?

Social commerce provides businesses with direct access to a large audience, enhances customer engagement, and offers valuable insights into customer preferences and behaviors.

Which platforms are popular for social commerce?

Popular platforms for social commerce include Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest.

What are some trends in social commerce?

Key trends include the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), live shopping events, and the rise of micro-influencers.

How can Xena Intelligence help with social commerce?

Xena Intelligence can help businesses develop a tailored social commerce strategy, increase brand awareness, boost sales, and gather valuable customer insights.

TLDR

Social commerce is revolutionizing the way businesses interact with consumers by integrating shopping experiences directly into social media platforms. This approach offers numerous benefits, including increased brand exposure, engagement, and conversion rates. Key trends shaping the future of social commerce include the use of augmented reality, live shopping events, and micro-influencers. At Xena Intelligence, we specialize in helping businesses harness the power of social commerce to drive growth and success. Contact us today to learn how we can help

What is Social Commerce?

Social commerce is the integration of social media platforms with e-commerce, allowing users to discover, research, and purchase products directly within their favorite social networks. 

This trend is gaining momentum as consumers increasingly prefer seamless shopping experiences that don't require them to leave their social media apps. Imagine scrolling through Instagram and spotting a must-have pair of shoes, adding them to your cart, and checking out—all without leaving the app. That's social commerce in action! 

This approach not only enhances the shopping experience but also helps businesses reach a wider audience, increase engagement, and boost conversion rates. As social media usage continues to soar, social commerce is becoming an ESSENTIAL tool for businesses looking to stay competitive and meet consumers where they are.


Total Social commerce sales from 2020 to 2026

(Source: eMarketer via Tidio)

How Social Commerce Works

Social commerce leverages the power of social media platforms to facilitate transactions between businesses and consumers. Popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest have built-in social commerce features that allow users to browse, shop, and purchase products directly within the app.

Businesses can create shoppable posts, stories, and ads that showcase their products and include direct links to purchase. This approach not only simplifies the buying process but also creates a more engaging and interactive shopping experience.

Moreover, it enables businesses to tap into the power of user-generated content, such as reviews and recommendations, to build trust and credibility with potential customers. By harnessing the power of social media, businesses can create a more personalized and effective shopping experience that drives sales and boosts brand awareness.

Best Social Commerce Platforms to Use in 2024

Social commerce continues to grow as platforms like YouTube and TikTok introduce new features, joining the pioneers like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Here’s a quick overview of platforms you should consider testing for social selling this year:

Facebook
Facebook Shops are easy to set up and free, offering businesses a seamless way to sync inventory and sell directly on the platform. Customers can browse and buy within the app, while businesses can handle customer inquiries via Messenger.

Instagram
Instagram Shopping integrates with Facebook Shops, enabling businesses to use Product Tags to make posts and videos shoppable. Users can easily discover and purchase products either in-app or through the brand’s website.

TikTok
TikTok's social commerce tools include shoppable videos and live shopping options within TikTok Shop, allowing brands to sell directly through engaging content and live streams.

Pinterest
Pinterest Shopping allows businesses to tag products in their Pins, simplifying discovery. Though purchases are completed off-platform, the tagged Pins enhance the shopping journey by offering quick access to product information.


Most popular social commerce platforms among digital buyers

(Source: Tidio)

5 Benefits of Social Commerce

  1. Reach a Wider Audience of Potential Customers
    Social commerce leverages over 5 billion global social media users, many of whom discover new brands through these platforms. It facilitates seamless product discovery and purchasing directly within social media apps, enhancing visibility and accessibility. By 2024, half of all social media users in the US are expected to make purchases through these platforms.

  2. Convert Customers Where They Are and Remove Friction
    Social commerce allows customers to make purchases directly on social platforms, eliminating the need to switch apps or websites. This integration simplifies the buying process, reducing barriers and shortening the journey to purchase, thus enhancing user convenience and increasing conversion rates.

  3. Increase Reviews and Recommendations Through Social Proof
    Establishing a presence on social media can help new online sellers accrue crucial social proof. Reviews and customer interactions are central to online shopping, where physical product evaluation isn’t possible. Managing sales and feedback through social media ensures that positive reviews are visible and influential.

  4. Gather Useful Data on Your Customers' Social Habits
    Social commerce provides direct insights into customers’ social media behaviors, offering valuable data that can inform marketing strategies. This access allows businesses to better understand their audience, tailor their approaches, and optimize their engagement and conversion tactics based on real user data.

  5. Drive Additional Revenue Than Traditional Ecommerce
    Projected to significantly outpace traditional e-commerce, social commerce sales in the US are expected to exceed $100 billion by 2025. This growth presents businesses with new opportunities to increase sales and revenue by tapping into the expansive and still-growing market of social media shopping.


Concerns of social media users while doing social shopping

(Source: Hubspot)

History of Social Commerce

According to Yao Zhong in the article, "Social Commerce: A New Electronic Commerce" the initial instance of online consumer marketing occurred in November 2005 on Yahoo! This introduction featured the Shoposphere's pick lists, which showcased trending products.

Social commerce has since evolved to captivate online consumers by providing trustworthy recommendations and guidance from internet-based experts on their shopping choices. Marketing expert Jeff Bullas highlights four leading brands in social commerce:

  • Nordstrom sets trends by marking items in-store with a popular Pinterest tag.

  • Coca-Cola enhances customer engagement by customizing bottle labels and encouraging social media shares with the hashtag #ShareACoke.

  • Starbucks incentivizes customer interaction through rewards for users who achieve Mayor badges on Foursquare.

It’s important to differentiate social commerce from social shopping. Social commerce involves partnerships with online merchants to enhance the shopping experience, whereas social shopping focuses on the communal aspect, where shoppers connect and collaborate online.


Distribution of social commerce spendoing of different generations

(Source: Accenture)

Social Commerce Trends to Watch in 2024

As social commerce continues to evolve, several key trends are shaping its future. One major trend is the increased use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to create immersive shopping experiences. Brands are using AR filters and VR showrooms to allow customers to try on products virtually or explore products in a 3D environment.

Another trend is the rise of live shopping events, where brands host live streams to showcase products and interact with viewers in real time. This creates a sense of urgency and excitement, encouraging viewers to make purchases on the spot. Additionally, the use of micro-influencers is gaining traction as brands seek to build authentic connections with niche audiences.

How Xena Intelligence Can Help

At Xena Intelligence, we understand the power of social commerce and its potential to transform your e-commerce business. Our team of experts can help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media and develop a tailored social commerce strategy that drives results.

Whether you're looking to increase brand awareness, boost sales, or gather valuable customer insights, we have the tools and expertise to help you succeed. By leveraging the latest social commerce trends and technologies, we can help you create a seamless and engaging shopping experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

Ready to take your business to the next level? Contact us today to schedule a meeting and learn how we can help you grow your e-commerce business.

Check out this video to explore key trends like AI, social commerce, and sustainability that are shaping e-commerce in 2024 and beyond!


FAQs

What is social commerce?

Social commerce is the use of social media platforms to promote and sell products and services directly within the app.

How does social commerce benefit businesses?

Social commerce provides businesses with direct access to a large audience, enhances customer engagement, and offers valuable insights into customer preferences and behaviors.

Which platforms are popular for social commerce?

Popular platforms for social commerce include Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest.

What are some trends in social commerce?

Key trends include the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), live shopping events, and the rise of micro-influencers.

How can Xena Intelligence help with social commerce?

Xena Intelligence can help businesses develop a tailored social commerce strategy, increase brand awareness, boost sales, and gather valuable customer insights.

TLDR

Social commerce is revolutionizing the way businesses interact with consumers by integrating shopping experiences directly into social media platforms. This approach offers numerous benefits, including increased brand exposure, engagement, and conversion rates. Key trends shaping the future of social commerce include the use of augmented reality, live shopping events, and micro-influencers. At Xena Intelligence, we specialize in helping businesses harness the power of social commerce to drive growth and success. Contact us today to learn how we can help

What is Social Commerce?

Social commerce is the integration of social media platforms with e-commerce, allowing users to discover, research, and purchase products directly within their favorite social networks. 

This trend is gaining momentum as consumers increasingly prefer seamless shopping experiences that don't require them to leave their social media apps. Imagine scrolling through Instagram and spotting a must-have pair of shoes, adding them to your cart, and checking out—all without leaving the app. That's social commerce in action! 

This approach not only enhances the shopping experience but also helps businesses reach a wider audience, increase engagement, and boost conversion rates. As social media usage continues to soar, social commerce is becoming an ESSENTIAL tool for businesses looking to stay competitive and meet consumers where they are.


Total Social commerce sales from 2020 to 2026

(Source: eMarketer via Tidio)

How Social Commerce Works

Social commerce leverages the power of social media platforms to facilitate transactions between businesses and consumers. Popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest have built-in social commerce features that allow users to browse, shop, and purchase products directly within the app.

Businesses can create shoppable posts, stories, and ads that showcase their products and include direct links to purchase. This approach not only simplifies the buying process but also creates a more engaging and interactive shopping experience.

Moreover, it enables businesses to tap into the power of user-generated content, such as reviews and recommendations, to build trust and credibility with potential customers. By harnessing the power of social media, businesses can create a more personalized and effective shopping experience that drives sales and boosts brand awareness.

Best Social Commerce Platforms to Use in 2024

Social commerce continues to grow as platforms like YouTube and TikTok introduce new features, joining the pioneers like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Here’s a quick overview of platforms you should consider testing for social selling this year:

Facebook
Facebook Shops are easy to set up and free, offering businesses a seamless way to sync inventory and sell directly on the platform. Customers can browse and buy within the app, while businesses can handle customer inquiries via Messenger.

Instagram
Instagram Shopping integrates with Facebook Shops, enabling businesses to use Product Tags to make posts and videos shoppable. Users can easily discover and purchase products either in-app or through the brand’s website.

TikTok
TikTok's social commerce tools include shoppable videos and live shopping options within TikTok Shop, allowing brands to sell directly through engaging content and live streams.

Pinterest
Pinterest Shopping allows businesses to tag products in their Pins, simplifying discovery. Though purchases are completed off-platform, the tagged Pins enhance the shopping journey by offering quick access to product information.


Most popular social commerce platforms among digital buyers

(Source: Tidio)

5 Benefits of Social Commerce

  1. Reach a Wider Audience of Potential Customers
    Social commerce leverages over 5 billion global social media users, many of whom discover new brands through these platforms. It facilitates seamless product discovery and purchasing directly within social media apps, enhancing visibility and accessibility. By 2024, half of all social media users in the US are expected to make purchases through these platforms.

  2. Convert Customers Where They Are and Remove Friction
    Social commerce allows customers to make purchases directly on social platforms, eliminating the need to switch apps or websites. This integration simplifies the buying process, reducing barriers and shortening the journey to purchase, thus enhancing user convenience and increasing conversion rates.

  3. Increase Reviews and Recommendations Through Social Proof
    Establishing a presence on social media can help new online sellers accrue crucial social proof. Reviews and customer interactions are central to online shopping, where physical product evaluation isn’t possible. Managing sales and feedback through social media ensures that positive reviews are visible and influential.

  4. Gather Useful Data on Your Customers' Social Habits
    Social commerce provides direct insights into customers’ social media behaviors, offering valuable data that can inform marketing strategies. This access allows businesses to better understand their audience, tailor their approaches, and optimize their engagement and conversion tactics based on real user data.

  5. Drive Additional Revenue Than Traditional Ecommerce
    Projected to significantly outpace traditional e-commerce, social commerce sales in the US are expected to exceed $100 billion by 2025. This growth presents businesses with new opportunities to increase sales and revenue by tapping into the expansive and still-growing market of social media shopping.


Concerns of social media users while doing social shopping

(Source: Hubspot)

History of Social Commerce

According to Yao Zhong in the article, "Social Commerce: A New Electronic Commerce" the initial instance of online consumer marketing occurred in November 2005 on Yahoo! This introduction featured the Shoposphere's pick lists, which showcased trending products.

Social commerce has since evolved to captivate online consumers by providing trustworthy recommendations and guidance from internet-based experts on their shopping choices. Marketing expert Jeff Bullas highlights four leading brands in social commerce:

  • Nordstrom sets trends by marking items in-store with a popular Pinterest tag.

  • Coca-Cola enhances customer engagement by customizing bottle labels and encouraging social media shares with the hashtag #ShareACoke.

  • Starbucks incentivizes customer interaction through rewards for users who achieve Mayor badges on Foursquare.

It’s important to differentiate social commerce from social shopping. Social commerce involves partnerships with online merchants to enhance the shopping experience, whereas social shopping focuses on the communal aspect, where shoppers connect and collaborate online.


Distribution of social commerce spendoing of different generations

(Source: Accenture)

Social Commerce Trends to Watch in 2024

As social commerce continues to evolve, several key trends are shaping its future. One major trend is the increased use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to create immersive shopping experiences. Brands are using AR filters and VR showrooms to allow customers to try on products virtually or explore products in a 3D environment.

Another trend is the rise of live shopping events, where brands host live streams to showcase products and interact with viewers in real time. This creates a sense of urgency and excitement, encouraging viewers to make purchases on the spot. Additionally, the use of micro-influencers is gaining traction as brands seek to build authentic connections with niche audiences.

How Xena Intelligence Can Help

At Xena Intelligence, we understand the power of social commerce and its potential to transform your e-commerce business. Our team of experts can help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media and develop a tailored social commerce strategy that drives results.

Whether you're looking to increase brand awareness, boost sales, or gather valuable customer insights, we have the tools and expertise to help you succeed. By leveraging the latest social commerce trends and technologies, we can help you create a seamless and engaging shopping experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

Ready to take your business to the next level? Contact us today to schedule a meeting and learn how we can help you grow your e-commerce business.

Check out this video to explore key trends like AI, social commerce, and sustainability that are shaping e-commerce in 2024 and beyond!


FAQs

What is social commerce?

Social commerce is the use of social media platforms to promote and sell products and services directly within the app.

How does social commerce benefit businesses?

Social commerce provides businesses with direct access to a large audience, enhances customer engagement, and offers valuable insights into customer preferences and behaviors.

Which platforms are popular for social commerce?

Popular platforms for social commerce include Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest.

What are some trends in social commerce?

Key trends include the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), live shopping events, and the rise of micro-influencers.

How can Xena Intelligence help with social commerce?

Xena Intelligence can help businesses develop a tailored social commerce strategy, increase brand awareness, boost sales, and gather valuable customer insights.

TLDR

Social commerce is revolutionizing the way businesses interact with consumers by integrating shopping experiences directly into social media platforms. This approach offers numerous benefits, including increased brand exposure, engagement, and conversion rates. Key trends shaping the future of social commerce include the use of augmented reality, live shopping events, and micro-influencers. At Xena Intelligence, we specialize in helping businesses harness the power of social commerce to drive growth and success. Contact us today to learn how we can help

What is Social Commerce?

Social commerce is the integration of social media platforms with e-commerce, allowing users to discover, research, and purchase products directly within their favorite social networks. 

This trend is gaining momentum as consumers increasingly prefer seamless shopping experiences that don't require them to leave their social media apps. Imagine scrolling through Instagram and spotting a must-have pair of shoes, adding them to your cart, and checking out—all without leaving the app. That's social commerce in action! 

This approach not only enhances the shopping experience but also helps businesses reach a wider audience, increase engagement, and boost conversion rates. As social media usage continues to soar, social commerce is becoming an ESSENTIAL tool for businesses looking to stay competitive and meet consumers where they are.


Total Social commerce sales from 2020 to 2026

(Source: eMarketer via Tidio)

How Social Commerce Works

Social commerce leverages the power of social media platforms to facilitate transactions between businesses and consumers. Popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest have built-in social commerce features that allow users to browse, shop, and purchase products directly within the app.

Businesses can create shoppable posts, stories, and ads that showcase their products and include direct links to purchase. This approach not only simplifies the buying process but also creates a more engaging and interactive shopping experience.

Moreover, it enables businesses to tap into the power of user-generated content, such as reviews and recommendations, to build trust and credibility with potential customers. By harnessing the power of social media, businesses can create a more personalized and effective shopping experience that drives sales and boosts brand awareness.

Best Social Commerce Platforms to Use in 2024

Social commerce continues to grow as platforms like YouTube and TikTok introduce new features, joining the pioneers like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Here’s a quick overview of platforms you should consider testing for social selling this year:

Facebook
Facebook Shops are easy to set up and free, offering businesses a seamless way to sync inventory and sell directly on the platform. Customers can browse and buy within the app, while businesses can handle customer inquiries via Messenger.

Instagram
Instagram Shopping integrates with Facebook Shops, enabling businesses to use Product Tags to make posts and videos shoppable. Users can easily discover and purchase products either in-app or through the brand’s website.

TikTok
TikTok's social commerce tools include shoppable videos and live shopping options within TikTok Shop, allowing brands to sell directly through engaging content and live streams.

Pinterest
Pinterest Shopping allows businesses to tag products in their Pins, simplifying discovery. Though purchases are completed off-platform, the tagged Pins enhance the shopping journey by offering quick access to product information.


Most popular social commerce platforms among digital buyers

(Source: Tidio)

5 Benefits of Social Commerce

  1. Reach a Wider Audience of Potential Customers
    Social commerce leverages over 5 billion global social media users, many of whom discover new brands through these platforms. It facilitates seamless product discovery and purchasing directly within social media apps, enhancing visibility and accessibility. By 2024, half of all social media users in the US are expected to make purchases through these platforms.

  2. Convert Customers Where They Are and Remove Friction
    Social commerce allows customers to make purchases directly on social platforms, eliminating the need to switch apps or websites. This integration simplifies the buying process, reducing barriers and shortening the journey to purchase, thus enhancing user convenience and increasing conversion rates.

  3. Increase Reviews and Recommendations Through Social Proof
    Establishing a presence on social media can help new online sellers accrue crucial social proof. Reviews and customer interactions are central to online shopping, where physical product evaluation isn’t possible. Managing sales and feedback through social media ensures that positive reviews are visible and influential.

  4. Gather Useful Data on Your Customers' Social Habits
    Social commerce provides direct insights into customers’ social media behaviors, offering valuable data that can inform marketing strategies. This access allows businesses to better understand their audience, tailor their approaches, and optimize their engagement and conversion tactics based on real user data.

  5. Drive Additional Revenue Than Traditional Ecommerce
    Projected to significantly outpace traditional e-commerce, social commerce sales in the US are expected to exceed $100 billion by 2025. This growth presents businesses with new opportunities to increase sales and revenue by tapping into the expansive and still-growing market of social media shopping.


Concerns of social media users while doing social shopping

(Source: Hubspot)

History of Social Commerce

According to Yao Zhong in the article, "Social Commerce: A New Electronic Commerce" the initial instance of online consumer marketing occurred in November 2005 on Yahoo! This introduction featured the Shoposphere's pick lists, which showcased trending products.

Social commerce has since evolved to captivate online consumers by providing trustworthy recommendations and guidance from internet-based experts on their shopping choices. Marketing expert Jeff Bullas highlights four leading brands in social commerce:

  • Nordstrom sets trends by marking items in-store with a popular Pinterest tag.

  • Coca-Cola enhances customer engagement by customizing bottle labels and encouraging social media shares with the hashtag #ShareACoke.

  • Starbucks incentivizes customer interaction through rewards for users who achieve Mayor badges on Foursquare.

It’s important to differentiate social commerce from social shopping. Social commerce involves partnerships with online merchants to enhance the shopping experience, whereas social shopping focuses on the communal aspect, where shoppers connect and collaborate online.


Distribution of social commerce spendoing of different generations

(Source: Accenture)

Social Commerce Trends to Watch in 2024

As social commerce continues to evolve, several key trends are shaping its future. One major trend is the increased use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to create immersive shopping experiences. Brands are using AR filters and VR showrooms to allow customers to try on products virtually or explore products in a 3D environment.

Another trend is the rise of live shopping events, where brands host live streams to showcase products and interact with viewers in real time. This creates a sense of urgency and excitement, encouraging viewers to make purchases on the spot. Additionally, the use of micro-influencers is gaining traction as brands seek to build authentic connections with niche audiences.

How Xena Intelligence Can Help

At Xena Intelligence, we understand the power of social commerce and its potential to transform your e-commerce business. Our team of experts can help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media and develop a tailored social commerce strategy that drives results.

Whether you're looking to increase brand awareness, boost sales, or gather valuable customer insights, we have the tools and expertise to help you succeed. By leveraging the latest social commerce trends and technologies, we can help you create a seamless and engaging shopping experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

Ready to take your business to the next level? Contact us today to schedule a meeting and learn how we can help you grow your e-commerce business.

Check out this video to explore key trends like AI, social commerce, and sustainability that are shaping e-commerce in 2024 and beyond!


FAQs

What is social commerce?

Social commerce is the use of social media platforms to promote and sell products and services directly within the app.

How does social commerce benefit businesses?

Social commerce provides businesses with direct access to a large audience, enhances customer engagement, and offers valuable insights into customer preferences and behaviors.

Which platforms are popular for social commerce?

Popular platforms for social commerce include Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest.

What are some trends in social commerce?

Key trends include the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), live shopping events, and the rise of micro-influencers.

How can Xena Intelligence help with social commerce?

Xena Intelligence can help businesses develop a tailored social commerce strategy, increase brand awareness, boost sales, and gather valuable customer insights.

TLDR

Social commerce is revolutionizing the way businesses interact with consumers by integrating shopping experiences directly into social media platforms. This approach offers numerous benefits, including increased brand exposure, engagement, and conversion rates. Key trends shaping the future of social commerce include the use of augmented reality, live shopping events, and micro-influencers. At Xena Intelligence, we specialize in helping businesses harness the power of social commerce to drive growth and success. Contact us today to learn how we can help

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