Why 85.6% of Gen Z Shoppers Are Flocking to Snapchat Instead of TikTok, Instagram or Facebook

Social Media Marketing: The Power of Influencer Content

Every time users log onto social media platforms, they are inundated with targeted marketing efforts aimed directly at them.

A recent report from EMARKETER reveals the effectiveness of this approach, particularly among younger audiences.

The report highlights that "high shares of shoppers" across various demographics are increasingly purchasing content recommended by creators on platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram.

Why Are Young People More Influenced by Creators?

The survey conducted by EMARKETER, which involved 1,207 participants who had made or been inspired to make purchases through social media in the past year, found that Gen Z shoppers—aged 15 to 26—are significantly more susceptible to creator-driven marketing.

An impressive 82 percent of Gen Z respondents indicated that they had bought something because of a creator, showcasing the generational divide in shopping influences.

In contrast, only slightly more than 18 percent of baby boomers and 40 percent of Gen X shoppers reported similar experiences.

According to Morning Consult data, a significant portion of Gen Z is highly engaged with influencers, with nearly all following at least one, and 22% following more than 50.

Their credibility among this group is also on the rise.

Despite the abundance of content, around 32% of Gen Zers express a desire for even more influencer content in the future.

Snapchat Leads in Influencer-Driven Purchases

Among the various social media platforms, Snapchat has emerged as the leading force in driving shopping decisions influenced by creators.

The report states,

"In our survey, 85.6% of social shoppers who said Snapchat content led them to make a purchase also said they had made a purchase because of creator or influencer content."

This finding suggests that Snapchat not only inspires purchases directly but also enhances the effectiveness of influencer marketing on other platforms.

While TikTok and Instagram are often recognised for their visual appeal and influencer engagement, Snapchat outpaces them in terms of immediate shopping influence.

As the survey indicates, this dynamic presents a unique opportunity for brands looking to connect with younger audiences through engaging creator content.

The Decline of Facebook in Influencer Marketing

Interestingly, Facebook has fallen to the bottom of the ranking when it comes to influencer-driven shopping.

The platform that once dominated social media marketing is now perceived as the least effective in influencing purchases.

The generational differences in platform preference highlight a shift in consumer behaviour, with younger users gravitating toward platforms that foster more genuine interactions with creators.

This shift prompts questions about Facebook’s future in social commerce and whether it can adapt to reclaim its relevance among younger shoppers.

The Reality of Conspicuous Consumption

The data presented in the EMARKETER report reflects the reality of conspicuous consumption in the age of social media.

The ability of creators to sway purchasing decisions reflects a larger cultural phenomenon where shopping becomes intertwined with social identity.

The interaction between social media marketing and consumer behaviour illustrates a clear shift in how brands connect with their audiences, revealing that influencer marketing is not just a trend but a vital component of modern retail strategy.

Rethinking the Future of Retail Engagement

As social media platforms continue to evolve, brands must confront the challenge of authenticity in influencer marketing.

The rising influence of creators, particularly among younger audiences, signifies a transformative shift in how consumers perceive value and make purchasing decisions.

This presents an opportunity for brands to foster genuine connections and embrace creativity in their marketing strategies.

Companies that adapt to these changes, prioritising meaningful interactions over traditional advertising methods, will not only survive but thrive in this new landscape.

The question remains: will brands seize this moment to innovate, or will they cling to outdated practices, risking their relevance in a world where consumer preferences are rapidly shifting?