8 Reasons Why QR Marketing is NOT Dead

Its been around for some time and it seems that QR codes are a well-used marketing tactic. But some are proclaiming that they are dead, an outdated technology that has had its day. We explain why QR marketing still works and how you can make a success.

How You Can Use QR Codes

Better, faster technology is coming to the market thick and fast and that means for us, we have more technological options and devices than ever before.

For marketing gurus, this means a significant shift in how brands connect and engage with customers. Marketing today needs far more focus and direction.

There are many tools at our disposal, including the use of QR codes.

The beauty of this small square (why not scan this one?) containing a certain amount of information is that it can be used for online and offline marketing, such as printing a QR code on a banner.

People interested in what you have to offer, point their phone or tablet at it. Using a free app, the phone scans it and takes you to a designated place online.

The QR code is far from dead, but how can you use them effectively in your next marketing campaign?

 

1.   Give it a specific purpose

QR marketing needs to have value to the people you are targeting. That means, making sure the code contains what the consumer needs.

For example, taking them through to a specific landing page or your website removes the hassle of them opening up the web, typing in your URL, navigating to the right page and so on.

2.   Contact details at trade shows and exhibitions

We work with many brands to create fantastic displays for their trade show booths and exhibition stands. QR codes can be used on these materials. Printing a QR code on a banner is a simple and easy way for people to access all kinds of information, including your contact details.

3.   Messages and treasure hunts

The thing we love about QR codes is the freedom a brand has not just in terms of the information contained within the code, but how you use them too.

A QR code treasure hunt is a fantastic idea for creating a buzz around your brand, especially at a trade show. Printed QR codes can be hidden in all kinds of places, and by scanning them, users collect codes or access a GIF or image that prompts them to find other clues and, eventually a prize!

You can also use them to ‘hide’ messages, something else you can have a lot of fun with. Remember, marketing is NOT just about ‘sell, sell, sell!” - it’s about connecting and engaging with customers too.

4.   Email marketing measuring metric

All brands want to know how successful their marketing activities are. But with some methods, such as email marketing, it can tough analysing who reads your email, who access your e-newsletter and so on.

A QR code in the email which a consumer could read on their smartphone would give you some indication of what is working and what isn’t.

The beauty of QR codes is their simplicity. Don’t make using or scanning them too complex or difficult for your customers.

5.   Codes and apps

Apps are increasing in popularity because they too should present a simple means for a fan or follower to access a service.

Many apps are fostering QR codes both in their marketing and engagement. Just look at Snapchat and their use of QR codes and you will see why there are more people who love these codes than there are detractors.

6.   View your business location

If you want to draw customers to your retail unit, with your offline marketing, complete with printed QR code, they simply scan it and they have directions to your business.

7.   Point them to your social media

Building your online following? Want to increase followers and engagement? Create a QR code that directs customers to your social media pages and add to your next run of printed leaflets or postcards, and you’ll find your online presence will grow.

8.   Unlock a discount

This is by far one of the most popular uses for QR codes and a huge reason why QR marketing is far from dead.

Customers love a bargain and by scanning a QR code, they can unlock a discount on their purchase from you.

If you want to give this a go, we suggest;

• A strong call to action, making it clear that the QR code is the way to unlock a discount or a deal
• Make it a worthwhile deal! Scanning it only to find a meagre discount of a few pence or pounds is disappointing. This won't do the customer’s impression of you any good.

Is there a place in your marketing strategy for QR codes?