Last year, a small business owner named Joshua Lucas shared his fears with his TikTok followers about the potential ban of the platform. Lucas, who runs Crystal Pacifica, an online seller of gems and minerals, credited TikTok for his business' success. Since joining TikTok in 2021, his revenues grew significantly, reaching over $700,000 in 2022.
Lucas expressed concerns about losing his community and the financial stability he had achieved through TikTok. With the possibility of a ban looming, he worried about where he would pivot to reach customers, as he hadn't built a large following on other platforms like Instagram.
If TikTok were to be banned, Lucas feared he would have to spend a significant amount on ads to generate sales on other platforms. He highlighted the advantages of TikTok for small businesses, emphasizing its role in helping his business flourish.
Before his success with Crystal Pacifica, Lucas worked as a wedding photographer but decided to leave the profession due to financial instability during the pandemic. Joining TikTok in 2021 was a turning point for him, enabling him to retire from photography and focus on his business full-time.
Lucas initially underestimated TikTok, thinking it was just for kids doing dances. However, after gaining a substantial following and engagement on the platform, he embraced live selling and educating customers about stones, which aligned with his passion for the business.
As lawmakers debated the potential ban of TikTok due to national security concerns, Lucas and other small business owners expressed their worries about the impact on their livelihoods. Lucas emphasized the importance of TikTok to his business and community, urging Congress to consider the implications of a ban on small businesses.
Overall, Lucas's story reflects the significant role TikTok plays in the success of small businesses and the uncertainties they face in the event of a ban.
