QR codes for retail and shops
QR codes connect the shop floor to everything online: product details, reviews, stock in other sizes and your loyalty program. These are the placements that earn scans.
Where QR codes help
Shelf and product info
A code on shelf labels opens specs, sizes, care instructions or a video demo.
Make a Link QR code →Reviews at the till
A review code on the counter or receipt invites happy customers to share.
Make a Google Reviews QR code →Loyalty and newsletter sign-ups
Link to your sign-up form and offer a small welcome discount.
Make a Google Forms QR code →Window shopping after hours
A window code lets passers-by browse and buy when you're closed.
Make a Link QR code →Social follows
Put an Instagram or TikTok code on bags and the fitting room mirror.
Make a Instagram QR code →Contactless tips and payments
Market stalls and pop-ups can take payments by PayPal or other apps.
Make a PayPal QR code →Example: an independent bookshop
Each staff pick has a small shelf card with a code to the review on the shop's website. The window has a large code saying 'Browse and order online, 24/7'.
Codes are dynamic and named by placement. After a month the window code has far more scans than the shelf cards, so the shop adds a second window code at child height for the children's section.
Get it right first time
- Name each dynamic code by placement to compare them.
- Use the call to action to promise something: 'See it in other colors'.
- Window codes should be at least 10 cm wide.
- Make sure product pages load fast on mobile data.
Questions people ask
Retail & shops
Can I use QR codes instead of price tags?
Keep prices visible; many places require it. Use codes for extra information, not instead of prices.
Do I need a barcode or a QR code on products?
Retail checkouts need a GS1 barcode (EAN or UPC). A QR code is for customers' phones. Many products carry both.
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More ideas
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