Over 80 percent of consumers still make purchases at physical stores. But the retail world must rapidly evolve to encompass more than just the in-store purchase journey. While they browse the aisles, 51 percent of consumers use mobile shopping apps to access coupons, discounts, and deals.

Tools like QR code generators bridge the gap between physical and digital interactions. This “phygital” marketing approach helps brands capture customer attention when only 14 percent of consumers say brands succeed in knowing and remembering them and understanding their needs.

The pandemic required consumers to become more comfortable with the idea of conducting business online. Even today, with the world reopened, people continue to shop, bank, and work online. But at the same time, they’ve developed a new appreciation for real-world experiences. Companies opting to offer hybrid shopping experiences present the best of both worlds.

Want to encourage shoppers to continue their digital interactions? Check out these five ways to use QR codes in your store.

Complete an Online Checkout
Customers can use QR codes for quick payments at the checkout counter. Several platforms like PayPal, IKEA, and Walmart already offer this service. When they’re ready to pay, customers scan the QR Code, and the digital wallet connected to their bank account deducts the purchase. This process speeds customers through checkout more efficiently — and there’s no fumbling through the wallet for correct change.

Join Loyalty Programs
Customers love personalized loyalty programs. Try finding someone who isn’t among the 80 percent of adults enrolled in a loyalty program. But let’s face it, no one wants to hold up the checkout line because they can’t find their loyalty card. Instead of telling the cashier their number, customers simply scan a QR code to enter their information. Retailers can use a QR code generator to create and display codes throughout the store for easy scanning on posters, at the checkout aisle, or on a product.

Reveal Offers and Discounts
You can also link discount codes to a QR code to elevate your customers’ shopping experiences. Standard print campaigns require customers to remember their coupons. QR codes are much more efficient — and if you carry your phone with you, you’re good to go. There’s a greater chance of consumers redeeming coupons if they’re placed in stores, which drives up sales.

Boost App Downloads
Looking to increase app downloads? Incorporate QR codes into your mobile app marketing. Posted QR codes can automatically redirect consumers to their phone’s app store to download a company’s app. Instead of remembering and searching an app’s name, all a customer needs to do is complete a quick scan, and they have everything they need.

Leave Feedback
Reviews help businesses improve quality and boost sales. In fact, 90 percent of consumers say positive online reviews influence their decision to buy. Want feedback on your products or service, or are you hoping to garner insights on the customer in-store experience? Offer a feedback QR code, which makes it easy for customers to share their valuable thoughts and opinions.

Businesses have the power to deliver a well-rounded customer experience. And phygital marketing tools can help. QR codes are becoming a part of a new baseline redefining customer expectations.



The author, Sharat Potharaju, is the co-founder and CEO of Beaconstac.