As QR codes become part of the mainstream, more businesses are using them with great success. There are a number of industries that have led the way in QR code use, developing unique QR marketing initiatives that can provide inspiration for any small business owner.

Retail. The next time you go into a Best Buy store, check out some of the in-store displays and product fact tags. Many of them now feature QR codes so customers can access detailed product information, read consumer reviews and compare similar products. Home Depot uses QR codes in print ads and signage linking to how-to videos, product demos and project guides. If you own a retail business: Use QR codes in your print advertising or in-store signage to link to coupons or special offers. Enhance your product packaging with additional information, assembly instruction videos, user manuals or recipes. You can also add a QR code to your receipts, driving customers to your website or to a customer survey page.

Travel. Signature Life Hotels use QR codes to enable guests to book reservations or find out more about the hotel. Many major hotel sites have QR codes on their websites that you can scan and add their phone and address information downloaded to your mobile phone's contact list. If you're in the hospitality business: If you own a travel agency, you can entice customers to visit certain locations by adding a QR code that links to photos and scenic video tours. Or put a QR code poster in your window with a QR code that links to limited-time travel offers. Inn and bed-and-breakfast owners can use QR codes to link to maps of prime shopping and eating districts, allow guests to get more information about amenities or upcoming events, or take advantage of special rates for their next stay.

Real estate. RE/MAX Elite Services in New Jersey has embraced QR code technology, using the codes to provide customers with detailed listing information, Google Maps with street views and locations of the nearest schools. If you're a realtor: Add QR codes to your marketing materials that link to a list of current properties available to buy. Include a QR code with flyer listings that link to virtual tours, photos, prices and other important specs. You can also include a QR code on your lawn sign that connects a potential customer's mobile phone directly to your phone number.

Restaurants. The Giraffe Bar & Grill in New York uses QR codes to advertise special offers - like a free bottle of house wine with two entrée purchases. Domino's includes a QR code on their flyers that allows you to order the featured pizza when you scan the code. If you own a restaurant or café: Print a QR code on take-out menus that, when scanned, will download your phone number to your customers' mobile phones. Include QR codes on your menus, linking to nutritional information or recipes. Have a poster that's visible to customers leaving the restaurant with a QR code linked to your Facebook page so they can "Like" you. And if you really want to intrigue potential diners, post a giant QR code on your daily specials board and advertise the featured dish of the day.

Of course, the use of QR codes isn't limited to these industries. Many other businesses (like designers and photographers who include QR codes on their business cards that link to their portfolios) have found a number of creative ways to use QR codes. As a small business owner, you can take a cue from these industries and find new ways to work QR code tactics into your marketing initiatives.



What Next?

Discover 16 more uses for QR codes in restaurants.

Tips on using QR codes to improve the retail experience.

Some how-to tips on using QR codes in real estate.

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

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