Why settle for awkwardly searching for a sales associate when your phone could answer every question you have — from product details to secret deals — with just a quick scan?
From exclusive discounts to real-time store maps, QR codes are turning everyday shopping trips into seamless, personalized, and even fun experiences.
QR codes and tools like OnlineQRcode are revolutionizing the way we shop by providing instant (and interactive!) access to information. No longer just functional tools, QR codes have become essential for creating smart shopping experiences.
In this article, we’ll go over how QR codes have enhanced shopping, their benefits, and how stores are already putting them to use.
The Rise of QR Codes in Retail: A Short History
While QR codes may have been around for decades (they were invented in 1994, to be exact!), their popularity really skyrocketed during the pandemic.
As retailers — and plenty of other industries — scrambled for a quick and contact-free way to share information, QR codes became the perfect solution.
With a simple scan of their phone’s camera, customers could instantly access product details, menus, special offers, and much more… all without touching a single surface.
While this was a good start, tools like QRNow took this even further by offering something called dynamic QR codes. This new type of QR code meant that retailers could change the linked content any time without the need to reprint new codes.
This brings us to our next point: the benefits of dynamic QR codes. As mentioned above, the benefits for retailers include reduced printing costs (no need to reprint new materials every time a product or promotion changes!), real-time updates, and better brand engagement (especially with custom-branded codes).
Of course, there are also benefits for customers as well. Perhaps the biggest perk is convenience, since customers can simply scan a QR code instead of searching for a staff member. The information is immediate, helpful, and tailored to their needs.
How to Enhance Shopping Experiences with QR Codes
So, how exactly do retailers use solutions like QRNow to level up the in-store experience? Let’s look at some of the most popular ways:
Instant Product Information
One of the most straightforward ways to integrate QR codes is by linking them to detailed product information pages. Instead of cluttering shelves with thick brochures or super tiny (and practically unreadable) print on product labels, retailers can instead place a code on the packaging or nearby (such as on shelf wobblers).
Imagine you’re in a makeup aisle and see a shelf wobbler with a colorful QR code with an enticing CTA like “Scan for a free tutorial!”
A quick scan reveals a video featuring a famous makeup artist demonstrating how to apply that eyeliner or eyeshadow. Not only does this interest the shopper, but it also cross-promotes complementary products like eyebrow pencils or setting sprays nearby!
Much better than a standard glossy poster, right?
Customer Reviews
Big-box stores can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to make a decision. Do you buy that cool new blender made by a trendy start-up, or stick with a classic Vitamix that everyone swears by?
Instead of leaving customers to search for feedback on their own, retailers can use QR codes to put reviews right at their fingertips.
Let’s go back to our example above and imagine that a customer is browsing through a store like Best Buy or Costco, in search of a fancy kitchen gadget.
They notice a QR code on the shelf that reads “See what others are saying!” and, after scanning it, are taken directly to the store’s page for that particular product. The customer can read reviews, see photos from other users, watch video reviews, and much more.
Those reviews build trust, answer common questions, and often highlight features that they might not have noticed. It’s like a helpful salesperson but without the pressure!
Discounts & Promotions
Who doesn’t love a good deal? Thanks to QR codes, customers can unlock special offers, claim discounts, and redeem loyalty points — all from their phone.
From a psychological point of view, this not only appeals to budget-conscious buyers, but also fosters a sense of exclusivity, as if they’ve been let in on a secret discount.
Let’s continue our examples and see a few ways that retailers can use QR codes:
- In a grocery store, customers might see a sign reading, “Scan for today’s flash deal!” A scan could unlock 20% off strawberries, encouraging immediate purchases.
- Retailers can add excitement with interactive discounts, such as a “spin-the-wheel” QR code that offers random savings like 5%, 10%, or 20% off.
- Bookstores could use QR codes on shelves with messages like, “Scan to earn double points on this title,” which rewards loyalty while promoting specific products.
Interactive Store Maps
There’s nothing more frustrating (and awkward) than waking into a new store and getting lost in the first few moments. Thankfully, QR codes can also help with navigation.
Enter the interactive store map, accessed via a simple QR code at the entrance or on aisle signage.
Shoppers scan the code and get a real-time layout of the store, including which aisle to find their favorite items. It’s especially helpful during busy seasons or in massive complexes like IKEA, where a digital map can save plenty of frustration.