It seemed like one day, we woke up and suddenly found ourselves surrounded by QR codes. But, little did we know this boujee barcode has been around since the 90’s. For marketers, this technological comeback has come with one major benefit. Brands have finally been able to bridge the gap between the hard copy print environment and this ever-evolving digital world. But, what do we actually know about QR codes, and why should we care?
Invented in 1994.
These codes were initially made for car parts in Japan. With quick access to information and the limitations of traditional barcodes, they aided in the car manufacturing process. But, since these small beginnings, people have become extremely creative and innovative in the distribution and purpose of these black-and-white squares.
QR code makes the biggest comeback in its original birthplace.
As marketers, we aim to increase brand visibility. Last year, the ball was hit out of the park in Japan. The QR code made a massive comeback in its original birthplace by a Japanese gaming company that ended its drone marketing campaign with a big QR code formed in the sky. This code when scanned, directed people to download the company’s latest game. Sounds like a logistical nightmare if you ask me, but when pulled off, it’s highly effective and stands out.
Easy, cheap and customisable.
Cheap as chips! QR codes are easy, cheap and can be customised with your brand assets. We all know that new things don’t last long, so the fact that QR codes continue to work up to being 30% damaged, is a bonus. The only reason they might lean toward being expensive is if you were to get a QR code tattoo. Thankfully though, as permanent as it is, opting for a dynamic code in such a case means you’ll always have the ability to update the content behind the skin.
Bridge online and offline marketing.
Imagine cruising around the Sunshine Coast markets and being instantly immersed into a small business by the scan of a code. This no longer has to be a dream. In fact, the technology has always been there. It just took a global pandemic for people to see its potential. For example, in the U.S., people can share fond memories and stories of their loved ones with QR codes even being inscribed on tombstones. Talk about bridging the gap between offline and online!
Why use QR codes in marketing?
Let’s be honest, how many times have you lost someone’s business card or months later found the remnants of it at the bottom of your bag? QR codes will save you money from not having to print hundreds of cards, and put you in peoples phones.
Think about your marketing objective. Need more traffic on a specific landing page of your website? You can have a QR code directed specifically to that page. Have a story or helpful video to share? Share it with a code. Not getting enough social media followers? Use a QR code to get your brand profile out there.
Since you made it this far, we have something we’d like to share with you!
A bit of mystery can go a long way. People are curious and just want to know – what exactly is behind those black-and-white squares? It’s no wonder these are becoming more popular within the marketing realm.
We enjoy helping businesses achieve their overall goals and objectives. So, if you want to know more about how you could incorporate such tools as QR codes into your marketing strategies and campaigns, get in touch today!