How to use Retail QR Code For Effective Marketing

Retail QR code is one of the most known QR codes circulating in the market.

Retailers have realized the benefits of QR codes in automating their processes, especially in marketing and payments.

Many retail stores have also incorporated QR technology, proving this tool’s effectiveness for the retail industry. Even big retail brands are using QR codes today.

5 Creative ways to use QR codes in retail

The creative ways of using QR codes in retail are endless. The key is understanding the customers’ needs and preferences and creating an engaging, interactive, and personal experience.

Interactive product displays

Using QR codes, shops can create engaging in-store displays for their wares. Customers can get more information about a product, like user reviews, how-to videos, and even virtual try-on, by scanning a QR code placed next to it.

Since most users today are keen on their purchases, providing them with an easy way to get to know their product will help establish a relationship with them.

Mobile payments

Customers can purchase with their mobile devices by a contactless payment QR code. This is possible by scanning a QR code at the point of sale or using a QR code in a mobile wallet app.

Retail stores or brands just have to create a QR code for their e-wallet accounts. Some e-wallet apps allow in-app QR code generation but only in static format.

It's still best to have your own customize QR code in dynamic form.

Loyalty program

Customers can monitor spending habits and loyalty with the help of QR code retail, and retailers can use this to provide discounts and other incentives.

For instance, customers can earn points or rewards that can be used for future purchases by scanning QR codes at the point of sale.

In-store scavenger hunt

To increase foot traffic and sales, merchants can use QR codes to organize in-store treasure hunts. Scannable QR codes link consumers to content that can help them solve puzzles and unlock special offers.

Virtual try-on

The use of QR codes enables a virtual trying-on experience for the consumer. Customers can try on clothes virtually before buying them by scanning a QR code placed next to them.

How to make a QR code for retail

Creating a QR code is very simple. Even non-tech savvy can surely make one on their own. Below are some of the steps to do so.

  1. Find a good free QR code generator. You’ll also need a reliable and flexible QR code maker if you want quality QR codes. A recommended QR code maker is the Free QR Code Generator.
  1. Once done, choose the QR code solution that you want to use. Every QR code maker has varying solutions to offer. Choose the solution that would best address your purpose.
  1. Attach or input the needed details for the chosen solution. Depending on the solution requirement, it could be a file, an image, an audio, or a text.
  1. Generate the QR code by clicking the generate button and wait for the QR code to load. Don’t worry; it only takes seconds to load.
  1. Customize your QR code to make it more appealing to the crowd. You may add color, change frames, changes eyes, and add a call to action.
  1. Test your QR code to make sure that it is working.
  1. Download your QR code according to the format you desire. QR code makers usually offer PNG or SVG format. Then you can now print and distribute your QR code to promotional materials.

Real-life uses cases of QR codes in retail

The brands mentioned below have figured out how to use QR codes to improve the shopping experience for their customers by making it easier for them to find what they need and giving them more control over their purchases.

Sephora

Cosmetics and beauty retailer Sephora uses QR codes to give customers access to more information and virtual try-on options for their products.

Customers can access information like reviews, how-to videos, and virtual try-on options by scanning a QR code on the in-store display or the product packaging.

Starbucks

QR codes are a popular payment method at Starbucks. QR codes allow buyers to pay with their smartphones at the register, streamlining the buying process and eliminating long queues.

IKEA

This Swedish furniture store provides QR codes to customers to learn more about pieces they find interesting. Customers can learn more about the product, see how it’s put together, and even take a virtual tour of it in use by scanning a QR code displayed nearby.

Lowe’s

Home improvement retailer Lowe’s gives customers access to a wealth of extra materials and information via QR codes.

Customers can access tutorial videos, product reviews, and even virtual consultations with experts by scanning a QR code on the in-store display.

Zara

Zara, a clothing retailer, includes QR codes in their advertising campaigns to direct consumers to the company’s online resources.

It allows customers to experience premium features or special offers by scanning a QR code on a printed advertisement.

Placement suggestion of QR codes

It’s crucial to strategically place your QR codes, especially in a place as big as a retail shop, to ensure that it gets scanned.

QR codes in retail stores can be in various locations for the best results. Some popular areas include:

On product displays

QR codes on product displays, like product reviews, how-to videos, and virtual try-on experiences, will be helpful for customers, especially in making purchases so it's important to consider adding this information.

At the point of sale

Customers can use their mobile devices to pay for purchases and redeem coupons straight from the store after scanning QR codes placed at the point of sale.

On marketing materials

Customers can access unique content or discounts by scanning QR codes printed on promotional materials such as billboards or print advertisements.

Since many are still into printed marketing, catering to these audiences is also essential.

On loyalty cards or membership cards

Loyalty cards are often used to gain points and acquire discounts, especially when shopping. Placing a QR code is a good spot, as customers will always bring their cards. 

It’s an excellent place to attach a URL or social media QR code to drive traffic and boost engagement.

On the packaging

Placing QR codes on the packaging allows customers to access additional information about the product, even after they have left the store.

It’s important to note that the placement of QR codes should be easily accessible and visible to customers.

The QR code should be placed in a location that makes sense for the intended use, for example, placing a QR code for making payments at the point of sale. 

Also, it’s recommended to provide clear instructions and indication on how to scan the code and the expected result after scanning it.

Be the game changer in retails with QR code

You can be a step of your competitors by using creativity and technology like QR codes.

You can also apply all the tips shared above to start your own campaign and/or be unique and set up your own strategy using QR codes.

If QR codes have done wonders for big brands, what makes you think it won’t do the same to yours?

All you have to do is get the best QR code generator—the Free QR Code Generator, sign up for an account and start creating better strategies for your business today.