Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
TikTokers are livestreaming shopping trips to stores like T.J. Maxx and HomeGoods, and charging viewers to buy items from them, in a new side hustle that's taking off on the social media platform.
One TikToker shared a video this week explaining the new money-making trend. The video was first reported on by the Daily Dot.
In the video, user @anamolykb, asked viewers: "Is personal shopping the new side hustle?"
She said: "So, apparently there's this thing where people go to T.J. Maxx, Ross, Marshalls, HomeGoods, Burlington Coat Factory and start a live. They go up and down the aisles picking up shit, and the people that are watching these lives are having these personal shoppers buy these various items for them."
She explained that sellers charge a "finders fee" — often between $10 or $15 — per store trip. Customers are also asked to cover shipping costs for these items and may not be able to get a refund if they aren't happy, she said.
TikTok's livestreaming feature allows users to record themselves in real time to an audience. Creators can also make money from livestreams by receiving virtual "gifts" from fans, which can then be converted into real money.
Off-price stores like T.J. Maxx and Ross are known for offering a treasure hunt shopping experience. These chains buy excess goods from well-known and designer brands and sell these at a 20% to 60% discount; some brands also make items specifically for this channel.
But the assortment varies from store to store and there's generally a limited amount of stock in each style.
Shoppers need to be prepared to trawl through racks of jumbled brands and styles to find what they want. Analysts say it's a winning retail strategy as shoppers are more likely to spend impulsively if they think an item won't be available again.
The appeal of using a TikTok personal shopper is both for convenience and to find bargains in stores that a customer may not otherwise have access to.
"I live in the sticks so it's nice to have a personal shopper," one TikTok user wrote in comments below a video explaining the trend.
Erin McDowell/Business Insider
Some creators also allow customers to buy outside the livestream.
One TikToker, who goes by the name of CJ, captured her shopping trolley in a video that showed Hello Kitty planners, bags, blankets, and an assortment of other items. She said these items were available to buy directly from her.
Another user, Kayla, posted a video of herself going shopping at T.J. Maxx and filling up her trolley with Mean Girl branded blankets, Hello Kitty makeup brush sets, purses, and other items. In the comments below her video, she invited followers to message her directly if they wanted to make a purchase.
These personal shoppers aren't unique to the off-price channel, however.
Other TikTok creators are also selling bundles of clothing from thrift stores and charging "styling fees" to cover the time they spend hunting for trendy secondhand clothes.
If you are a live personal shopper on TikTok and want to share your experience, please reach out to sbhaimiya@businessinsider.com
