Marsean Nelson, along with his wife Latricsha Nelson, experienced a tremendous shift in their business’s success after a video of their food truck went viral on TikTok. The exposure from the video, which received over 4.1 million views, led to a significant increase in customers and even visits from celebrities like Keith Lee and Kai Cenat. This sudden surge in popularity prompted the Nelsons to expand their business by opening two additional locations in Nevada.
TikTok has become a game-changer for small business owners in Nevada, with many seeing a substantial impact on their sales and overall business growth. The platform, which boasts 1.1 million users and 70,000 business profiles in Nevada alone, has proven to be an effective marketing tool for businesses of all sizes. A study conducted by TikTok and Oxford Economics revealed that 35 percent of businesses in Nevada consider TikTok to be critical to their operations, with the majority reporting an increase in sales and product demand after promoting their products on the platform.
In 2023, TikTok’s advertising and marketing efforts contributed significantly to Nevada’s economy, generating $200 million in gross domestic product and supporting 1,900 jobs. The platform’s influence extended to tax revenue as well, with business activities contributing $46 million to federal, state, and local taxes. The potential ban on TikTok in the U.S. has raised concerns among business owners, who rely on the platform to connect with customers and drive sales.
A recent round table discussion with U.S. Rep. Steven Horsford highlighted the positive impact of TikTok on small businesses in Las Vegas. Business owners shared their success stories, emphasizing the power of one viral video in transforming their business and attracting new customers. Alexandra Lourdes, owner of multiple eateries, emphasized the significance of TikTok in expanding her customer base and generating buzz for her establishments.
Similarly, Kari Garcia, known for her unique baking company, saw a surge in demand for her products after a video featuring her cookies went viral on TikTok. Embracing authenticity and creativity, Garcia encouraged fellow business owners to showcase their unique qualities on the platform. Vanessa Barreat, owner of a local restaurant, credited TikTok for her business’s growth and success, which enabled her to hire more employees and expand her operations.
The stories of these entrepreneurs underscore the transformative power of TikTok in driving business growth and fostering community engagement. As the platform continues to evolve and attract a diverse user base, small business owners in Nevada are leveraging its reach to connect with customers and achieve their entrepreneurial goals. The future of TikTok in the U.S. remains uncertain, but its impact on local businesses in Nevada is undeniable.
