Is your brand using QR codes to connect with your audience? While QR Codes are not new, they are making a comeback. Recently, QR Codes have become a way to minimize physical contact, particularly due to the pandemic, and still reach target audiences. Traditional touch points, such as ordering from a physical menu, can become digital experiences.
THE QR CODE COMEBACK
Did you know QR codes have been around for more than 25 years? The QR code was the brainchild of Masahiro Hara and was developed by Denso Wave. The QR Code replaced the need to scan multiple barcodes on a package, making all the information readily accessible in one place.
WHAT ARE QR CODES?
A QR Code is a machine-readable code consisting of an array of black and white squares, typically used for storing URLs or other information for reading by the camera on a smartphone. Static QR codes are permanent and free to generate. Their information can not be edited and is not trackable. Dynamic QR codes are editable, which means the information stored on them can be updated as needed. These codes also allow for tracking, which is useful for brands wanting to gather metrics. Dynamic QR codes typically come with a subscription cost.
QR CODES TODAY
In 2022, 1 billion smartphones will access QR codes. Recently, a survey found that 45% of people used a marketing-related QR code in the past three months.
Motor Mouth Multimedia promoted PJ Dick’s construction camp using a QR code on printed flyers distributed in several districts. We also showcased the code at an industry expo. The company saved money since potential customers scanned the booth for additional information instead of lugging lots of paperwork around, which may not have been taken to the airport and back to their offices. Motor Mouth also uses a QR code business card. The QR Code is embedded in a sticker on the management team’s smartphones. When they meet potential customers or contractors, they can easily transfer contact information, which can quickly be saved in someone’s phone.
According to Juniper Research, more than 5.3 billion QR Code coupons were redeemed by smartphones. More than one billion smartphones accessed QR Codes. This is a 300% increase from its initial estimates in 2017.
QR Codes today continue to push touch-free communication forward, including AR experiences. Brands are using QR codes across niches in unique ways. Brands focused on lowering their carbon footprint and sustainability began sharing their product footprint, reusability info, and more via QR codes included on their packaging.
TIPS FOR USING QR CODES
- Choose a QR code generator that has notoriety and good reviews.
- Make sure your code is a scannable size and that it is not blurry.
- Customize your QR code for brand recognition.
- Include a call to action, so people know what to do when they scan your code.
- Your QR code content needs to be mobile-friendly.
SUCCESSFUL QR CODE CAMPAIGNS
In 2019, Nike announced its Move To Zero initiative, which includes several focuses with the goal of reducing its environmental impact. This includes the Nike Refurbished program, which allows consumers to return shoes within 60 days. Nike inspects, cleans, and readies the products for resale. Each shoe box contains a QR code that explains the refurbished program and the overall Move To Zero plan.
Brands are using QR codes to connect to new audiences. Take the gaming audience, a recent campaign by Pizza Hut allowed their customers to play an AR version of the classic Pac-Man game by scanning the QR code placed on the side of their large pizza box. Pizza Hut’s genius campaign connected a classic game to new gamers using technology they are familiar with and connected with gamers who remember playing Pac-Man at an arcade or physical gaming console.
LEVERAGING QR CODES
Brands increasingly include QR codes in their strategic planning process because it’s clear they are here to stay. This is true across industries. Hotels took advantage of QR codes to share safety protocols, including air quality initiatives, with guests during the pandemic. More restaurants are moving to paperless menus and cash-free payments using QR codes to house their menus and digital checkout process. Museums have converted web addresses to QR code formats for sharing exhibit details. Even shopping warehouses have scan-and-go checkout processes accessible via QR codes.
CREATIVE WAYS TO USE QR CODES
- Business cards
- Resumes
- Customer surveys
- For app downloads
- Giveaway or contest entry
- Coupons
- On physical promotional materials
- To build email subscriber lists
- Promote an event
- Payments
The QR code comeback is one that companies need to embrace. The pandemic showed just how important it is to reach consumers virtually. With more usage, more advances come. Don’t leave valuable access on the table. Connect with Motor Mouth Multimedia to learn how we can help your brand utilize QR codes and the latest technology. Fill out our Communications & Marketing Inquiry Form or email us at [email protected] to set up a paid consultation.
How is your brand leveraging QR codes?
