A survey conducted in October 2011 found that 19% of UK consumers have used their phone to scan a QR code.
As a quarter of adults and almost 50% of teenagers own a smartphone, QR codes are becoming an essential business tool.
South East Labels, a West Sussex-based label and barcode printer, has launched a new QR code service. To mark the launch, SEL today reveals its top tips on using QR codes effectively for business.
Explain the benefits
One short sentence placed under the code, explaining what it does, will significantly increase the number of scans the code attracts. People want to know where the code is going to send them before they scan.
Don’t just link to your homepage
While it’s wise to send people to your website, it’s better to send them to something which will really grab their attention, such as a special offer. You could say under the code ‘for today’s discounts, scan here’, and put a new offer on the destination page each day. Alternatively, link to a one-time-only offer. Either of these is better than just sending people to your homepage.
Use them in print
QR codes are incredibly useful, but not on website as a hyperlink can do the same job. A QR code is essentially a hyperlink in the real world – on a poster, a business card, or a product label. Shop owners can put a link in their window sending people to the online shop, for example, to save disappointment for any customers who visit to find the shop closed.
Readability is key
Most people who scan QR codes do so on impulse, and if it takes too long to read, they may give up. To keep the scanning process as quick as possible, use good quality paper, a simple design, and a short URL (this genuinely makes a difference to scanning time). For best results, get the codes professionally printed.
About South East Labels
SEL has 24 years’ experience in the industry, and their helpful and efficient staff will be happy to advise you on the best materials and finish to make your QR code easily readable. SEL also offers standard barcodes, and a range of labels including security tags, shiny hot foil labels, and cryogenic stickers for medical use. SEL also sells a range of professional-quality printers, with product demonstrations and a try-before-you-buy scheme as standard. Customer support is offered by phone or email. Visit www.southeastlabels.co.uk for full details of their QR codes, labels, barcodes, printers, and wide range of accessories.
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