QR codes, also known as Quick Response codes, have been around for more than 25 years. However, it is only in the last few years that they have become increasingly popular among consumers. QR codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can be scanned with a smartphone camera to access a website, app or other digital content. In this article, we will explore how widely used QR codes are among customers and why they have become so popular.
How Widely Used Are QR Codes Among Customers?
QR codes have become more prevalent in recent years, with more and more businesses using them in their marketing and advertising efforts. According to a 2021 survey conducted by MobileIron, 50% of consumers in the United States and United Kingdom had scanned a QR code in the past month. Additionally, 78% of consumers surveyed said they were likely to scan a QR code if it provided a coupon or discount.
COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to the increased use of QR codes. Many businesses have adopted QR codes as a contactless way to provide menus, make payments and share information. According to a 2020 survey by PayPal, 47% of consumers in United States had used QR codes for payments and 60% of those who had not yet used them were interested in doing so.
Why Have QR Codes Become So Popular?
Convenience
QR codes provide a convenient way for consumers to access digital content quickly and easily. Rather than typing in a website URL or searching for an app in the app store, consumers can simply scan a QR code to access the content they want.
Cost-Effective
QR codes are cost-effective to produce and distribute. They can be printed on a wide range of materials, including business cards, flyers and product packaging. Businesses can also create and distribute QR codes for free using online QR code generators.
Flexibility
QR codes can be used in a wide range of applications, from marketing and advertising to payment processing and information sharing. They can be used on both digital and physical media, making them a versatile tool for businesses.
Contactless
QR codes have become more popular during COVID-19 pandemic as a contactless way to provide information, make payments and share menus. Consumers can scan QR codes with their smartphones without the need for physical contact.
How Can Businesses Use QR Codes?
Marketing and Advertising
Businesses can use QR codes in their marketing and advertising efforts to provide consumers with quick and easy access to digital content. QR codes can be printed on flyers, brochures, posters and other materials, allowing consumers to quickly access websites, product information and promotional offers.
Payment Processing
QR codes can be used for payment processing, allowing customers to make payments by scanning a code with their smartphones. This can be particularly useful for small businesses that may not have resources to invest in traditional payment processing systems.
Contact Tracing
QR codes can be used for contact tracing purposes, allowing businesses to collect customer information for COVID-19 tracing efforts. Customers can scan a QR code to provide their contact information, making it easier for businesses to track potential exposure to the virus.
Information Sharing
QR codes can be used to share information with customers, such as product information, menus and business hours. This can be particularly useful for businesses that have limited physical space for displaying information.
QR codes have become increasingly popular among consumers in recent years. They provide a convenient, cost-effective and versatile tool for businesses to provide digital content, process payments and share information. COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to the increased use of QR codes as a contactless way to share information and make payments. As QR codes continue to gain popularity, businesses should consider how they can incorporate this versatile tool.
