QR Codes are Making the Comeback of the Century
What are QR codes for Connection?
QR codes as we know them today were initially released in 1994 by Denso Wave Inc. QR Codes are images that smartphone cameras can scan to access a URL, unique product, or service information, not unlike a bar code. For many years, QR Codes mostly faded their way into obscurity. People initially struggled to understand how to scan the code, and the web pages were often broken or slow, leading to frustrated users. Over time, we have learned how to use them for as QR Codes for Connection.
Now that the technology has improved and the general public has grown accustomed to them, QR Codes are emerging as one of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to enhance the customer shopping experience. QR codes can now be found everywhere, from your local corner coffee shop to the largest retailers—and they’re here to stay!
How can QR codes be used?
QR Codes can be used in a variety of effective ways by retailers. Driving traffic to a specific website where a call-to-action lives can be a very effective way to increase specific conversions. QR Codes can also be used to send drafted emails or make a phone call, to support for example. Using QR codes to sign up for newsletters, and opening feedback forms could also lead to higher conversions for those forms. Even more creatively, putting a QR code on an advertisement could be used to help customers navigate to the closest brick-and-mortar location. Truly the sky is the limit for QR codes, sharing business cards, boosting app downloads, and even social media visibility.
Currently, some of the world’s biggest retailers have implemented QR codes in their stores already. Starbucks, Walmart, Target, and Macy’s have all implemented QR Codes to allow customers easy access to their mobile payment options. This eliminates one of the pain points of a very efficient method of payment in stores, leading to less waiting times in checkout lines, and less frustration from customers. Dollar General, 7-11, and Decathlon have all used QR Codes to enable “cashier-less checkout”. Customers can connect a payment method to their account on a store-specific account, which can generate a unique QR code for each customer, allowing them to scan their QR code instead of using their bank card at the store.
Connect with Theatro!
Theatro’s “Heads Up & Hands-Free” Mobile Communication Platform connects frontline teams to the people and information they need while empowering them to deliver game-changing customer experiences that helps drive customer loyalty. Theatro has capabilities built-in to use QR codes as a soft button to alert employees help is needed in certain parts of your store! To learn more about how Theatro can help you streamline communication in-store and about how to build more uses for QR codes in your store, Connect with our Sales team today
Michael Severen
Michael finds innovative ways to connect brands to their consumers. He has experience in private aviation, startup tech, multi-family housing, and social media consulting. Graduating from the University of Nebraska with a degree in Marketing, Michael joined Theatro's team of talented writers.
Michael Severen
Michael's published works here:
The Impact of “Quiet Quitting” and How Communication Can Help
An ‘Old’ Technology Just Might Help Retailers Battle the Labor Shortage
Seven Ways to Increase Your Team’s Job Satisfaction
Everything-as-a-Service: It's time to unite software and devices under the same model
Small Team Retailers Still Earn Big: A Review of the RIS Top 100 Retailers