Overview
A mobile app developer needed to scale user acquisition across MENA while maintaining sub-$2 CPI. Trendaway's performance-focused TikTok strategy achieved 8,500+ installs at $1.20 CPI.
Challenge
Rising app install costs across all platforms due to iOS privacy changes. No TikTok presence. Creative from other channels performed poorly. Need for quality users who engage and purchase.
Strategy
We built a TikTok creative engine producing 20+ assets monthly following native conventions. Used App Activity targeting for similar app users. bidding with App Event Optimization for in-app purchases from day one. Custom event funnel tracking for full-funnel optimization.
Results
6 evergreen creative concepts maintained CPI below $1.50 for 60+ days. Day 7 retention increased from 14% to 26% with purchase optimization. 8,500+ installs at $1.20 CPI (40% below target). 71% registration rate, 34% Day 1 active, 8.2% purchased within 30 days. Campaign ROAS reached 2.8X, justifying 3X budget increase.
Key Takeaways
- A high-volume TikTok creative engine with systematic testing is essential for sustainable app install performance
- App Event Optimization for purchases from day one delivers 40-60% higher user quality
- Thematic creative batches prevent audience fatigue and extend campaign longevity