TikTok is significantly expanding its footprint in the UK, announcing plans to create over 500 new jobs and open a second London office in Barbican. This move underlines the company's growing commitment to the UK market, which now boasts over 30 million monthly users - making it TikTok’s largest user base in Europe.
Strengthening the UK Workforce
The new job creation will grow TikTok’s UK-based workforce to around 3,000 employees by the end of 2025. These 500-plus roles will span a wide range of functions, reinforcing the company’s long-term vision for its presence in the country. More than just increasing headcount, the expansion reflects TikTok's strategic investment in developing talent and operational infrastructure in one of its most important markets.
New Urban HQ in Barbican
TikTok’s physical expansion includes the development of a new 135,000-square-foot office in Barbican, scheduled to open in early 2026. This will add to its existing headquarters in Farringdon, which opened in 2022 and measures 88,500 square feet. Together, these two locations represent approximately £140 million in office space investments, signalling a clear commitment to a long-term UK presence.
Thriving Community and Economic Impact
With over 30 million active users in the UK, TikTok has established a strong community that is having a tangible impact on the national economy. More than 1.5 million UK businesses now use the platform, contributing an estimated £1.6 billion and supporting around 32,000 jobs. Creators and entrepreneurs continue to see major success through the platform, from musicians like Myles Smith who gain global traction to ecommerce ventures like P. Louise, which generated over £1.5 million during a single TikTok Shop Live event.
Reinforcing Safety and Trust
Adam Presser, TikTok UK’s director and global head of Trust & Safety, emphasized the company’s focus on maintaining an enjoyable and secure digital environment. TikTok is investing heavily in user safety, including a £10 billion commitment over 10 years through Project Clover, which is subject to oversight by the UK-based NCC Group. The platform also enforces several teen safety features, such as automatic private accounts for users under 16, restricted messaging, nighttime reminders, and screen-time management tools. Additionally, TikTok has partnered with Internet Matters to create the Digital Safety Partnership for Families, offering resources to help parents navigate their children's digital use.
Context: Data Regulation and Privacy Pressure
TikTok’s growth comes amid heightened scrutiny over data privacy and online safety. The company is currently appealing a €530 million fine issued by the Irish Data Protection Commission for alleged cross-border data processing violations. In the UK, the recently passed Online Safety Act could introduce new usage restrictions for children, including potential curfews. Despite these regulatory challenges, TikTok appears resolute in its strategy to expand and invest in the UK market.
Why This Matters
This expansion brings a host of implications for the UK. It boosts the job market with hundreds of high-skill roles, demonstrates confidence in the UK’s economic environment, and underlines the platform’s broader economic impact through its support for local businesses. Furthermore, the focus on user safety and data transparency shows that TikTok is aware of (and actively responding to) rising regulatory expectations.
Vertex View
TikTok’s decision to grow its UK operations through job creation, office expansion, and increased safety investments positions the platform as a major player in the country’s digital and economic landscape. While it faces ongoing scrutiny around data privacy and child safety, the company's proactive measures and deepening ties to the UK suggest a long-term commitment that could have a lasting influence across industries.
Image Credit: AFP via Getty Images
