AHA (Vic) and TikTok are hosting a statewide roadshow across regional Victoria this April, giving AHA members practical training on how to grow their business and reach new customers on the platform.
Every month, more than 10 million Australians use TikTok to connect and discover where to eat, drink and stay in metro and regional towns across the country.
Throughout the roadshow industry leaders, publicans, hoteliers and TikTok experts will unlock how venues can build their brand and how the platform’s interest-based discovery connects businesses with the right audiences at the right time.
“With more than 350,000 Australian businesses already on the platform, TikTok empowers small businesses and regional communities to grow, fuelling economic opportunity and driving real-world impact at every level,” said Amy Bradshaw, general manager of global business solutions at TikTok Australia and New Zealand.
The upcoming initiative reflects a shift in how venues connect with customers, as pubs continue to evolve as modern, safe and inclusive community spaces.
Paddy O’Sullivan, CEO of AHA said: “Victorian pubs have always been the heart of our communities, and in an increasingly digital age, that connection starts online. By bringing TikTok’s global expertise directly to our members’ doorsteps, we are providing them with the practical, high-impact tools they need to turn posts into pots.”
The roadshow includes a hospitality masterclass, where venues will get a clear overview of how the platform fits into marketing strategy, learn creative best practices tailored to pubs and hotels, and hear first-hand from those who are already using the platform to connect with new customers.
Peter Appleby, venue manager of The Grand Hotel Warrandyte, described the impact the platform has had on the venue.
“TikTok has been a gamechanger for our business,” he said. “The reach we’ve built on the platform has created genuine interest, bringing in new customers and turning them into regulars.”
Sally Gebert, owner operator of Macedon Village Hotel said the venue has also found success on TikTok and recommends publicans unlock the platform’s potential.
“Getting started on TikTok for our business has been surprisingly easy. It’s energised our team, driven massive customer interaction, and delivered incredible reach in a cost-effective way. It’s fun, not intimidating at all, and the biggest lesson is simple: just start.”
Bradshaw added: “Businesses of all shapes and sizes are already tapping into popular trends and culture on TikTok. On TikTok it’s not about who you follow, but what you’re interested in.
“This means businesses don’t need big budgets, marketing teams or thousands of followers to start reaching new customers; just a mobile phone and some authentic content.”
The AHA (Vic) TikTok Roadshow will run across the state, with stops in:
28 April – Traralgon, Eastern Victoria
29 April – Wangaratta, Northern Victoria
30 April – Geelong, Western Victoria
1 May – Melbourne, CBD (Sold out)
Venues are encouraged to reach out to events@ahavic.com.au for booking requests or any other queries related to the roadshow.