Using QR Codes to Grow Your Shopify

The QR code system was invented in 1994 by Masahiro Hara from the Japanese company Denso Wave.[5][6][7] The initial design was influenced by the black and white pieces on a Go board.[8] Its purpose was to keep track of automotive parts manufactured by Denso, and to replace several bar codes on each box, each of which had to be scanned separately. (Wikipedia)

QR codes have come and go over the years, but truly came into popularity during COVID 19. With more restaurants moving from physical to digital menus, QR codes became the norm.  Even after the lockdown eased, there has been a 25x increase in the use in QR code use by restaurants and a 7x increase by hotels. (DXGlobal.com). Compound this with first party camera apps on all smartphones being able to scan QR codes - and the QR code has now become mainstream. 

So how can we use QR codes to our advantage? And what are the best ways to use them? Here’s where I recommend you put QR codes for brands that sell physical products on Shopify: 

Shipping Materials:

One of the best ways to implement QR codes is through your shipping materials. Cardboard boxes are now seen on every doorstep thanks to Amazon. The lowly cardboard box has become a 12x12x16 billboard, and a great opportunity to not only share your brand with your customers, but with everyone. 

But previously, the outside of the shipping box was reserved for just that, branding. But with QR codes, now you can create a great call to action. I have seen brands do some really creative marketing with this tactic, including giveaways, amazing offers, and even more playful concepts. The sky’s is the limit! 

Gateway Products:

Obvious placements for QR codes are on any products that you utilize as gateway products. Have a variety pack? Sample products? Any products that you utilize to draw in new customers? QR codes can be an easy way for new customers to order again. 

Another application of QR codes - you can link customers directly to the product they are trying with a coupon code already applied. Read more about applying coupon codes here. 

Retail Packaging:

Do you sell your products both in retail and digitally? Want to try and connect retail customers to your digital platform? Include QR codes on all retail packaging to draw customers to your Shopify store. Use QR codes to create offers, warranties, or guarantees. All of these are great ways to increase the likelihood of your retail customers scanning. 

With retail, you receive almost no customer data. By implementing QR codes on products, especially with a strong call to action, you can start to collect data and drive customers to your Shopify store. 

These are just a few of the ways you can implement QR codes to grow your sales on your Shopify... Below are some additional ways:

• Event Marketing (Stickers, Billboards, Signs)
• On Retail Packaging - More Information on Products (Reviews, Nutritional)
• Giveaways
• On Clothing or Swag Items 
• In Amazon Shipment Inserts (Drive Amazon Customers to Shopify)

Now go and grow. 

J