You've probably seen QR codes in newspaper and magazine ads, on billboards and in direct mail - you may even be considering QR codes for your own marketing efforts. And while these channels are certainly viable, there are a lot more ways you can put QR codes to good use.

We've come up with seven creative ways you can incorporate QR codes into your marketing plan:


Packaging. QR codes are starting to appear on everything from wine labels to ketchup bottles. Use QR codes on your product packaging to link to your website or better yet, to a page where they can access user manuals or more in-depth information on the product. If you're selling food items, include a QR code on the package that links to a recipe page. If you sell clothing, put a QR code on the price tag linking to garment care instructions or drive the buyer to complementing items on your website.

Business cards. Not everyone will take the time to check out your website if you have a URL on your business card. But adding a QR code is sure to intrigue and drive people to your site. It can also serve a more functional purpose, like linking to Google maps. You can even use QR codes to connect prospects directly to your phone number!

Menus. Own a restaurant or a café? Include QR codes next to dishes where customers might want to get more nutritional information. Or perhaps there's an interesting story behind certain items - link to a video of your chef talking about the origin of a particular dish or how it was prepared.

Point-of-purchase and window displays. Want to reward customers with an instant discount? Take advantage of your window, point-of-purchase displays and posters throughout your store by adding a QR code that leads to a discount coupon on purchases over $50 or multiple purchases.

Shelf-talkers. If you'd like to showcase certain star products, add a shelf-talker below each product you want to feature that links to a site with video testimonials from satisfied customers who've used them.

Statements and invoices. If your customers are purchasing one type of product or service from you, why not encourage them to explore other offerings you might have? You can either highlight new products or services on your website or send them a coupon towards their next purchase.

Instruction materials. If you offer a product that would benefit from a live demonstration, include a QR code in product instruction materials that links to a video demo of the product.

The list of ways you can use QR codes to market your small business is as long as your imagination will allow. One last tip - always make sure you test the code out first to ensure that it works!



What Next?

The Content Marketing Institute has some great tips on how to use QR codes in marketing.

Learn about all the different ways Pitney Bowes can help you communicate better with your customers.

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