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How to Use QR Codes on Product Packaging and Labels

The modern market of food and consumer goods is constantly searching for new ways to make communication with customers more effective and convenient. One of these tools is QR codes, which today can be found on almost any packaging or label. They allow customers to instantly connect with online information, make the purchasing process more transparent and interactive, and increase brand trust, turning packaging into a kind of digital business card with a QR code.

Why Add a QR Code to Product Packaging

The main goal of implementing a QR code is to provide the customer with quick access to information that cannot be fully placed on the packaging. This can be the company’s website, a list of ingredients, a production video, special promotions, or bonus offers. By using only a smartphone camera, the customer receives a full set of details, making the technology extremely accessible.

In addition, a QR code is an extra element of trust. Consumers are becoming more attentive: they care about the origin of ingredients, the production process, and expiration dates. All of this can be shown through a simple code that links the physical product with the digital space.

Types of Packaging and QR Code Applications

Primary Packaging

Primary packaging refers to containers and materials that directly contact the product: cardboard boxes, cans, bottles, films. Labels on primary packaging usually contain essential information such as ingredients, nutrition facts, and expiration dates. Adding a QR code allows you to provide extended details: show a production video, share quality certificates, or offer recipes. This helps the brand become more transparent and build an emotional connection with the buyer.

Secondary Packaging

This includes outer boxes or containers that combine several units of the product. For example, packs of juice cartons in a box or a set of cans. Here a QR code can be used for marketing campaigns: directing customers to a promo website, providing coupons, offering discounts, or promoting participation in campaigns. Secondary packaging often serves as a place for bright design solutions, and a QR code can become part of the visual style and strengthen communication.

Tertiary (Transport) Packaging

At first glance, cardboard boxes or corrugated containers intended for shipping and storage may seem to have no marketing value. However, QR codes can also be used effectively here. For instance, business card QR codes with company contacts or links to a corporate website can be placed on transport boxes. In this way, even during logistics, the brand continues to interact with potential partners and customers.

Ways to Use QR Codes

A QR code on packaging can perform many functions:

  • Video content: show the origin of the product or the process of its preparation. Research shows that nearly 80% of buyers are more likely to purchase if video content accompanies the product.

  • PDF instructions and catalogs: a convenient way to provide full instructions, recipes, or recommendations.

  • Coupons and discounts: lead customers to promo pages with bonuses and special offers.

  • Social campaigns: many well-known brands use QR codes to direct customers to public initiatives — for example, Nestle and Coca-Cola promote sustainability and responsible consumption.

  • Product range presentation: dynamic QR codes allow links to be updated and new products to be shown even after packaging has been printed.

Tips for Designing and Placing QR Codes

To make sure a QR code on packaging really works, it is important to follow several rules:

  1. Add color and creativity — a standard black-and-white code works, but a branded, styled code that matches your identity will attract more attention.

  2. Call to action — a caption like “Scan to learn more” increases the number of scans by up to 80%.

  3. Size — at least 2×2 cm. It’s better to make the code larger than to lose customers because of poor readability.

  4. Placement — put the code on a flat surface, preferably closer to the center of the package. On crumpled or glossy surfaces, scanning may be difficult.

  5. Print quality — upload the code in SVG format and use high resolution to avoid distortion.

  6. Testing — always check scanning before mass printing a batch.

Benefits for Brands and Customers

Using QR codes helps brands be more transparent, which is extremely important for today’s consumer. Customers want to know everything about the composition, origin, and quality of the product. They get the necessary information in just one click, and the company earns more trust and loyalty.

Brands can also expand interaction by adding links to social networks, online stores, mobile apps, or special events. As a result, packaging ceases to be just a protective layer — it becomes a full-fledged communication channel.

Examples of Successful Cases

  • Oreo BlackPink Campaign: a unique QR code on packaging gave fans access to exclusive content and strengthened engagement through social media.

  • Nestle Maggi: the company added QR codes to popular products to share recipes and cooking ideas, increasing the product’s value for customers.

QR codes on product packaging are not just a trendy addition but an effective digital marketing tool. They help tell the brand’s story, provide customers with useful information, engage them in campaigns, and increase trust. Packaging with a QR code is no longer static — it becomes interactive, turning a simple purchase into a complete brand experience.