5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs Qr Code？

QR (quick response) codes are the business cards of today. And now, they’re being used on a scale and in ways unforeseen by their original inventors.

Denso Wave put forward their creation in 1994, by modifying the barcode in a bid to simplify the process of tracking cars and their components.

And when marketers first latched onto the idea of using these codes as part of their campaign strategy, they soon discovered they were way ahead of their time.

Slower internet connection speeds, lower smartphone penetration rates and the need to download separate apps to use the technology meant they were soon regarded as more trouble than they were worth.

Despite some countries demonstrating enthusiasm about integrating these codes into their lifestyles, other areas have been much slower on the uptake. 

Yet, it’s likely that we’ll see more of these codes in future, as brands realize the arguments in their favor reflect the consumer preferences of millennials and Gen Z – the ones paving the way forward for future generations.

A spotlight on QR code users

A large portion of those using brands’ QR codes are in Asia Pacific. Mobiles are the most popular device here, with 15% of the internet population engaging with branded QR codes on a monthly basis.

QR codes are comparatively less popular in North America, where a PC, laptop or tablet is the most utilized device for over half of internet users, and just 8% use brands’ QR codes monthly. 

Of those who’ve used a brand’s QR code in the last month, 45% are millennials. 

Around half are in the mid 50% quartile for income, and almost 3 in 10 fall within the top 25% (Index 1.25).

QR code users are therefore younger and wealthier when compared to other internet users. Of this group, 3 in 4 are also located in urban areas and almost 60% are male.  

So why is it the right time to be using QR codes?

1. They’re eco-friendly. 

Almost 2 in 3 millennials would pay more for sustainable or eco-friendly products.

Millennials are willing to spend more to protect the planet. And despite having less disposable income, Gen Z aren’t far behind.

For this reason, QR codes can be easily adapted to attract a younger audience, and brands appealing to this audience’s desire for sustainability are seeing great results.

British Airways has removed the need for boarding passes altogether by offering flyers the option of using QR codes as an alternative. The company also recently launched their electronic bag tags initiative, erasing the need to print them.

Similarly, QuickReceipts is a company that offers digital or “green” receipts to brands; their QR codes can be picked up by most screens to generate paperless receipts.

The emergence of businesses such as these is a sign of the times -a symptom of a wider movement toward going paperless; and an effort to meet the expectations of increasingly environmentally-minded consumers.

2. They offer more convenience.

British Airways’ use of QR codes also makes the departure process quicker and easier.

Looking at online purchase drivers, it’s clear that a straightforward delivery process is particularly influential among younger buyers. 

Hoping to cash-in on the desire for speedy and effective access to venues, Eventbrite issued an article earlier this year encouraging organizers to replace tickets with QR codes at their events. The main motivations for doing this, they argue, are to reduce long queues and keep guests happy. 

Likewise, in response to the long working hours of those living in South Korea, Tesco introduced virtual stores allowing commuters to scan QR codes (representing products) on their phone. This gives consumers the ability to shop on their way home, while waiting at stations and bus stops. 

For 8 in 10 Gen Zs and 3 in 4 millennials, mobile is their most important device. Being a mobile-first communication strategy, QR codes are well-suited to this audience.

We’ve already seen the growth of mobile payments across the globe, and NFC in the West. Anything that simplifies the payment process and minimizes waiting times is likely to gain traction among these consumers. 

3. They add transparency. 

In light of various food scandals, consumers are more wary about where their food has come from. Thankfully, QR codes can help customers access this kind of information. 

2 in 10 of those who have scanned or used a QR code in the last month most want brands to keep them up-to-date with the latest news and products.

Knowledge about brands and their values is therefore important to these consumers.

In Brazil last year, one of the country’s largest dairy providers (Languiru) added QR codes to its cartons. This allowed customers to trace the journey cartons took from industrialization to the shelf. 

But consumers don’t just want to know where their food has come from, they want to know what’s in it. 

Almost half of those characterized as health-conscious consumers are millennials. Younger demographics are the moving force behind the plant-based, meat and dairy free movement. 

Over a third of millennials and Gen Zs buy health foods on a monthly basis.

In response to a growing number of health conscious, younger consumers, QR codes are being used by fast food outlets and restaurants to provide nutritional information.

McDonalds introduced QR codes to its packaging back in 2013, putting facts about the food customers were eating at their fingertips. And realizing the effectiveness of this method, Chili’s continues to add QR codes to its menus, linking them to healthy items and lighter options.

This allows the brand to advertise new products and gives this generation of health-conscious consumers instant access to the nutritional information they desire.

4. They enhance consumer engagement.

QR codes can also be the key to unlocking branded content and engaging with consumers in new and clever ways.

From recipe suggestions to discount codes, there are many ways this technology can be integrated into a brand’s marketing campaign. 

Younger demographics are particularly enthusiastic when it comes to engaging with (and wanting a personal relationship with) brands on social media.

More than 4 in every 10 millennials and Gen Zs follow brands they like on social media, with almost 4 in 10 Gen Zs saying they would advocate a company’s products simply out of love for the brand. 

Hoping to develop a closer relationship with its consumers, Malibu added QR codes to its packaging for a limited period of time this summer. As part of a promotion, customers could scan their code to get access to recipes and gain entry into exclusive competitions. 

Similarly, McDonald’s included QR codes in the design of their happy meals as a way of promoting the latest Avengers film released earlier in the year. These gave McDonald’s customers access to exclusive and behind-the-scenes movie footage. 

QR codes are versatile. Among other things, they can also link customers to product demonstrations and consumer reviews.

With younger generations expecting more from the shopping experience than ever before, QR codes are one way of making the buying process smoother and more interactive.

Those using brands’ QR codes have a strong desire for immersive content.

This group is twice as likely as the average consumer to have downloaded or used a branded app in the last month (37% have done so); and to have asked a brand-related question on a social network (30% do this). Around 1 in 4 also interact with brands by providing ideas for new products or designs on a monthly basis (Index 2.30). 

This indicates that, once comfortable interacting with brands through QR codes, consumers are more likely to become loyal followers who demonstrate engagement across various social channels. 

Augmented Reality apps are particularly popular among this group, with 11% using them (Index 2.40). This suggests that those most likely to adopt QR codes prefer exciting material that captures their attention and encourages involvement.   

5. They’re gathering momentum as a payment method.    

QR codes became popular in China when, in 2011, WeChat and Alipay began offering them as a digital payment option.

Compared to just 19% of those in the U.S., 37% of internet users in China use a mobile payment service on a monthly basis. The popularity of mobile payment methods here can be explained in part by the rise of QR codes, and the simplicity and ease with which people can use them. 

QR codes have left their mark on India too, and are now commonly used by smartphone owners to pay for meals and goods in restaurants and shops.

The current leader in the Indian digital payments market, Paytm, first set QR codes in motion by introducing them as a payment method. Hoping to emulate their success, WhatsApp aims to launch its own mobile payment service later this year. 

Outside of these countries, uptake of QR payments has been somewhat slow. Yet, it is on the rise. Singapore established one of the world’s first unified payment QR codes (SGQR) in 2018, compatible with 27 e-payment schemes; and Saudi Arabia announced its decision to put a nationwide QR-based payment system into practice over the coming year.  

What’s more, Alipay recently disclosed its collaboration with six well-known mobile wallets in Europe, with the aim of building a unified QR code in areas where the mobile payment landscape is less established. 

In many cases, QR codes offer more simplicity.

For example, Facebook Messenger codes were abandoned earlier this year, giving way to traditional QR codes, which are automatically detected by most phones.

QR codes are likely to rise in popularity as they integrate with other payment methods. Like Facebook Messenger codes, alternatives risk being cast aside as QR codes become the standard.   

We’re also now able to answer a question thrown around in 2011: SnapTags won’t bring about the death of QR codes; which, unlike Snapchat’s alternative, are widely accessible. 

Looking ahead to 2020

The potential for QR codes is huge. But at this point we’re only able to speculate. Despite being ubiquitous in China, they’re not nearly as welcome as NFC in various parts of the West. 

Some of the frustration of the past surrounding QR codes still lingers today, and many areas continue to see NFC as a more effective method of payment and engagement. 

Younger consumers tend to be the earliest adopters when it comes to emerging technology. So it seems appropriate that brands should therefore aim to target these consumers.

But with younger demographics becoming increasingly aware of how much time they spend online (over ¼ of millennials and Gen Zs track their screen time or set limits for apps) and frightened of life becoming overly digitized, brands must make QR codes worth their while. 

Campaign strategies utilizing QR codes have proven successful for many brands in the past and this is likely to continue as companies discover how to use this technology in more inventive and engaging ways. Only then will the true value QR codes can add to the purchase journey be understood. 

Lastly, as online commerce continues to grow and evolve, so too will its relationship with physical stores.

QR codes provide an important bridge between online and offline experiences, and as such they could create new opportunities in the omni-channel shopping journey, helping brands to close the online-offline loop in their stores or out-of-home ad campaigns.

Though success is never guaranteed, there’s never been a better time to experiment with this technology.

In this digital world, businesses are looking for new and innovative ways to engage with customers and streamline their operations. One such tool that has gained popularity is QR code stickers and labels. What are the great benefits these QR code stickers can bring to us? In this article, we will explore the five reasons why every business should use QR code stickers and labels, along with best practices for creating and implementing them, and where to use them.

What are QR code stickers and QR code labels? 

QR code stickers and QR code labels are adhesive labels or stickers that feature a Quick Response code. These stickers are mostly in square shape but can be made into any type from die cut stickers, rectangle stickers or even add some holographic effect. QR codes can contain a variety of information, such as website URLs, contact information, product information, or promotional offers. When combining QR code with stickers or labels, your customers can easily access the web addresses you specified by scanning the qr code on the stickers you have adhered. Your customers will scans the QR code using their smartphone, they are taken to the information or website associated with the QR code.

These custom stickers bring businesses an easy and effective way to provide customers with additional information, payment method or staying connected . Moreover, QR code stickers and labels can be designed with custom graphics and branding, making them a powerful tool for building brand recognition and recall.

QR stickers provide customers with additional information

What are QR code stickers and labels used for?

QR code stickers and labels are becoming increasingly popular as a marketing and operational tool for small businesses. 

1. Payments and ordering

The most common QR code stickers we can see are those that enable contactless payments and ordering. These stickers allow customers to easily pay for products or services using their mobile device.

2. Contacting us QR code

QR code stickers are also used to provide customers with quick and easy access to contact information, such as email addresses, phone numbers, or social media handles.

3. Leading customers to website or product pages

QR code that adheres to packaging can direct customers to specific website pages, product pages, or promotional offers, allowing them to quickly access more information about your business or products.

4. Growing social networks

QR code stickers are a way to promote your social media profiles and encourage customers to follow or engage with your business on social media.

5. Giving reviews

You can use QR code stickers on product to solicit customer feedback and reviews, directing customers to review sites or surveys where they can provide feedback on their experience with your business. This can help you improve customer satisfaction and identify areas for improvement.

By using QR code stickers and labels for payments, ordering, customer contact, lead generation, and social media, small businesses can enhance the customer experience, improve engagement, and boost brand recognition. So, consider incorporating these codes into your marketing and operational strategies, and see how they can benefit your business.

Benefits of using QR code stickers and labels

QR code stickers and labels are a powerful tool for small businesses looking to enhance their marketing, sales, and operational strategies. By providing quick and easy access to information and promotions, these codes can improve the customer experience and boost brand recognition.

1. Increased convenience for customers

QR code stickers and labels provide customers with an easy and convenient way to access information about your business, products, or promotions. Your customers can scan the code using their smartphone and quickly access the information they need, without the need for typing in URLs or searching for information online.

2. Enhanced brand recognition and recall

QR code stickers can be designed with custom graphics and branding, making them a powerful tool for building brand recognition and recall. When customers see your QR code, they associate it with your brand, helping to reinforce your brand identity and message.

3. Improved customer engagement and loyalty

Customized QR code stickers are the great way to offer customers special promotions, discounts, or loyalty rewards, encouraging them to engage with your business and become repeat customers. This can help to build customer loyalty and increase customer lifetime value.

4. Streamlined sales and inventory management

QR code labels can be used to track sales and inventory, allowing you to more easily manage your business operations. They can be used to track product information, inventory levels, and sales data, helping you to make better decisions and improve your business processes.

From increased convenience for customers to streamlined inventory management, there are many benefits to using QR code stickers and labels in your small business. So, consider incorporating these codes into your business strategies, and enjoy the benefits of this powerful marketing tool.

Where to use custom QR code stickers and labels

Custom QR code stickers and labels are a valuable addition to your business’s marketing and operational strategies. Try yours on these strategic locations:

1. Product packaging

Adding QR codes to your product packaging can help customers quickly access product information, instructions for use, or promotions.

2. Receipts and invoices

Including QR codes stickers on receipts and invoices can provide customers with quick and easy access to customer service or additional product information.

3. Point-of-sale displays and signage

QR codes can be included on displays and signage in your store or at events, providing customers with additional information about your business or promotions.

4. Vehicles and other equipment

Adding QR codes to your car stickers, truck decals, or equipment can help customers quickly access contact information, service requests, or other relevant information.

5. Flyers, posters, and other marketing materials

QR codes can be included on your marketing materials, allowing customers to quickly access more information about your business, products, or promotions.

By using custom QR code stickers and labels in these various locations, you can enhance your customers’ experience, increase engagement, and boost your business’s visibility and sales. So, consider incorporating these codes into your marketing and operational plans, and see how they can benefit your business.

Best practices for creating and implementing QR code stickers and labels

When creating and implementing QR code stickers and labels for your business, it’s important to follow best practices to ensure that they are effective and provide a positive user experience. Here are four key best practices to keep in mind.

1. Choosing the right QR code generator and format

It’s important to choose a reputable QR code generator that produces high-quality codes. Additionally, it’s important to choose the right format for your needs, such as static codes for one-time use or dynamic codes that can be edited and updated over time.

2. Incorporating branding and design elements

Customizing your QR code with your brand’s colors, logo, and other design elements can help increase brand recognition and recall. However, it’s important to ensure that the design elements don’t interfere with the readability or functionality of the code.

3. Testing and optimizing for user experience

Before implementing your QR codes, it’s important to test them to ensure that they are easy to scan and provide a good user experience. This may involve testing different sizes, colors, and placements of the code, as well as optimizing the landing page that the code leads to.

4. Ensuring security and data privacy

If you’re using QR code stickers and labels to collect or transmit sensitive information, such as payment details or personal data, it’s important to ensure that the codes and the associated systems are secure and comply with relevant data privacy regulations. This may involve using encryption, secure payment gateways, or other security measures to protect customer data.

By following these best practices, you can create and implement QR code stickers and labels that effectively engage customers, enhance brand recognition, and streamline your business operations. So, take the time to carefully plan and test your QR codes, and enjoy the benefits of this powerful marketing tool.

Conclusion

QR code stickers and QR code labels can be a valuable addition to any small business’s marketing and operational strategies. By providing quick and easy access to information and promotions, these codes can enhance the customer experience, increase engagement, and boost brand recognition. So, consider incorporating QR codes into your business strategies, and see how they can benefit your business. Remember to follow best practices for creating and implementing QR codes, and place them strategically in various locations to optimize their effectiveness.