Top 7 Business Industries That Use QR Codes Today
QR codes have long ceased to be just a way to quickly follow a link. Today, they are a full-fledged tool for customer interaction, process automation, and sales growth. Their versatility allows QR codes to be used in almost any industry — from retail and restaurants to healthcare and transportation. Below are the key sectors where QR codes are used most actively, going beyond the familiar concept of digital business cards.
Retail Stores
In retail, QR codes are used to provide customers with additional product information. They are placed on product packaging or display cases so customers can learn about ingredients, usage instructions, or product recommendations.
QR codes are also integrated into marketing materials such as catalogs, brochures, and outdoor advertising. A separate use case is coupon QR codes, which provide access to discounts, promotions, and special offers. This format helps stimulate purchases and track the effectiveness of marketing campaigns.
Restaurants and Cafés
In the food service industry, QR codes have become a standard. They are most commonly used to display digital menus, information about promotions, or seasonal offers.
Placing QR codes on tables or counters allows guests to view the menu and place orders directly from their smartphones without waiting for a waiter. This speeds up service, reduces staff workload, and improves customer convenience.
Events and Live Experiences
At concerts, exhibitions, and conferences, QR codes help organizers interact with attendees. Visitors can access schedules, interactive venue maps, and information about speakers or event partners.
QR codes are also used to collect feedback and conduct surveys, which helps evaluate event quality and improve future events.
Healthcare
In the healthcare sector, QR codes are used for quick access to patient information and medical records. They are placed on patient wristbands or medical documents so staff can promptly access details such as allergies, medical history, or prescribed medications.
Additionally, QR codes are used on medication packaging and prescriptions to provide patients with instructions on dosage, frequency, and proper use.
Education
In educational institutions, QR codes help expand the learning process. Teachers place them on posters, handouts, or display them on screens to give students access to additional learning resources.
These resources may include video lectures, interactive assignments, quizzes, or reading materials for independent study.
Transportation
In the transportation industry, QR codes are used as electronic tickets. Passengers scan the code with their smartphones to board trains, buses, or airplanes, which speeds up the process and reduces the use of paper tickets.
QR codes are also displayed on information boards and transportation providers’ websites to give passengers access to schedules, routes, and other travel information.
Marketing and Sales
In marketing, QR codes connect offline content with digital channels. They are used to link to product pages, demonstration videos, or feedback forms.
QR codes are actively used for social media promotion and integration with automated support services, including systems powered by artificial intelligence. This allows customers to quickly access help and useful information.
Practical Examples of QR Code Usage
Major brands have long been using QR codes in their business models. IKEA implemented QR code scanning to simplify the purchase process for large furniture items. Starbucks uses QR codes in advertising campaigns and loyalty programs.
Airlines place QR codes on boarding passes to speed up check-in, while Coca-Cola uses dynamic QR codes on product packaging, delivering different content with each scan. Nike, Tesco, and PayPal have also demonstrated how QR codes can transform approaches to sales, personalization, and cashless payments.
Benefits of QR Codes for Business
Convenience
QR codes provide fast access to information without the need to enter URLs or manually search for data.
Engagement
Interactive and personalized content increases user interest and engagement.
Tracking and Analytics
QR codes allow businesses to analyze customer interactions and measure campaign effectiveness.
Increased Online Presence
Directing users to websites and social media pages helps expand a brand’s digital presence.
Cost Efficiency
QR codes are a cost-effective tool compared to traditional printed materials.