You might be a marketer, small business owner, logistics supervisor, or anyone aware of QR Codes. They have gained immense momentum in the last few years.
Our recent findings show a staggering 301.51% growth in total QR Codes created from FY 2020-21 to FY 2023-24. Thanks to their versatility and fast-scanning capabilities!
But did you know QR Codes can do much more than just link to payment gateways and websites? That’s right!
There are actually tons of ways to use QR Codes creatively, and you’re in the right place to learn about them.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most interesting ways QR Codes are being used across different fields. Here’s what you can expect:
- Ideas for Businesses: Businesses are using QR Codes creatively for promotions, engagement, entertainment, and convenience with real-life case studies.
- Ideas for Individuals: See how people are adding a personal touch with QR Codes in their everyday lives.
- DIY QR Code creation: A quick and easy way to create your own unique QR Code.
- Campaign success tips: Some essential reasons and practical tips for running a successful QR Code campaign.
Now, let’s look at some top creative QR Code ideas, with real-life examples that can put you in the spotlight.
A. QR Code ideas for businesses and marketers
1. QR Code ideas For marketing and promotions
I. Interactive product labels and packaging
Give customers more than just a label! Add QR Codes on your products to link to fun or helpful content like demo videos, how-to guides, or even recipes.
This makes it easier for customers to learn more about what they’ve purchased.
Real-life example: Veet includes a QR Code on its cold wax strip packaging, linking to a “how-to” guide for perfect waxing.
II. Increase web traffic and social reach
Want more people on your site or social profiles? Use QR Codes on everything from brochures to business cards, letting people scan to reach your Instagram, LinkedIn, or website instantly.
You can also use a social media QR Code to link all your profiles in one place. This makes it convenient for users to select the channel they’re most active on.
For instance, Pocky, the popular snack brand, places QR Codes on its packaging to drive traffic to its social media channels.
III. Exclusive coupons and freebies
Who doesn’t love a good deal? Make discounts available only through QR Codes on flyers, posters, or social media.
This QR Code idea adds excitement and exclusivity, and customers don’t have to carry a physical coupon or remember codes.
Take Chaayos, for example. This popular Indian tea cafe uses a QR Code idea to offer freebies to customers who register with their mobile numbers.
IV. Increase app downloads
Looking to boost app downloads? Simply telling users your app name can lead to errors or, worse, they might download a different app. Promoted apps in search results can also steal your potential downloads.
An app store QR Code solves this problem by directing users straight to the correct app store when scanned.
And if you want them to land on a specific page in your app, use an app deep link QR Code.
A real-life example is Ishaare, a matchmaking platform that uses QR Codes in its outdoor ads to boost app downloads.
V. Creative QR Code stickers
Think of QR Code stickers as mini billboards for your brand. You can use them to turn everyday items into advertisement spaces.
Stick them on products, packaging, shopping bags, store windows, or even street furniture. Use this opportunity to link to your site, menu, loyalty programs, social media, or support page. Just make sure the stickers are durable so they don’t fade or rip over time.
Take a look at how HP makes it simple for customers to reach support on WhatsApp by including QR Code stickers on its laptops.
VI. Showcase customer testimonials
This QR Code idea is a great way to build trust with new customers. Instead of making them search, add a QR Code for reviews that links to video testimonials, review pages, or social media posts.
Place these QR Codes in emails, on product packaging, or even in retail stores, making it easy for potential customers to access real feedback.
This helps them make faster, more confident decisions without having to dig around online.
VII. Guide customers to your location
Want to increase foot traffic to your store? Create a Google Maps QR Code for your brick-and-mortar location and add it to your marketing materials and business cards.
This way, new customers can easily find their way to you without any mistakes, and existing ones won’t forget your address.
It’s also super convenient for driving customers, no need to stop and confirm directions. No manual searching, so no room for error!
VIII. Affiliate promotions
Brands often work with influencers on both long and short-form content, providing links in the descriptions. The problem is, people rarely click those links.
Instead, brands can ask affiliates to add a QR Code within the content itself. Viewers can pause and scan the code for direct access to the landing page. It’s a much easier and quicker way for potential customers to get to the offer.
This also makes it simple to track traffic and conversions from each affiliate, giving you a clear view of what’s working without any guesswork.
Tristan Paredes and other popular YouTubers use this QR Code idea to seamlessly connect viewers to landing pages.
IX. Easy email sign-ups
Growing your email list? QR Codes make it easy. Instead of making people hunt for a sign-up form, link a QR Code directly to your email registration page.
Add it to your checkout page, checkout counter, packaging inserts, or social media. This lets people know you have a newsletter and makes it simple for them to sign up for updates.
Since it’s an opt-in process, conversion rates will likely be higher. It’s a quick and convenient way to build your email list.
X. Apparel and textiles
You’d have seen QR Codes on tags inside an apparel store. They’re being rampantly used for a lot of use cases. For example, to keep track of the inventory, show customers the entire clothing range, help them add clothes to a virtual basket, etc.
Similarly, they’re even being used in the textile industry. They’re a smart way to authenticate products, ensuring customers get the genuine items they’re paying for.
Real-life example: The Kasturi Cotton Bharat program by India’s Ministry of Textiles uses QR Codes with blockchain to track cotton from farm to fabric, providing transparency and quality assurance.
XI. Efficient lead generation
QR Codes make lead generation easy. Offer a lead magnet like an e-book, discount coupon, free sample, or course, and link it to a QR Code.
Place the QR Code on your marketing material with a simple call to action like “Scan to get a free e-book” or “Scan for a coupon.”
When people scan, they fill out a form to access the offer. When people scan, they’re prompted to fill out a form to access the offer. This way, you’re capturing leads while giving them something in return.
XII. Promote eco-friendly initiatives
If you’re taking on eco-friendly initiatives, why not highlight them? Use this QR Code idea to share your sustainable campaigns or educate customers on green practices.
You can place these QR Codes on your product packaging, store displays, or marketing materials. They can provide information on sustainable materials, recycling methods, your company’s recent green initiatives, and more.
This offers two major benefits: it spreads awareness about sustainable practices and influences the buying decisions of environmentally conscious shoppers.
For instance, Versace uses QR Codes to show customers how to properly dispose of their perfume glass bottles.
2. QR Code ideas for customer engagement-
I. Digital restaurant menus
With this QR Code idea, customers can access an up-to-date digital menu right from their phone. Instead of handing out physical menus, customers can access an up-to-date menu right from their phones by scanning a QR Code.
Place it on table tents, stickers on tables, walls, windows, or anywhere else visible to customers. It’s eco-friendly since you won’t need to reprint menus with every change.
It also reduces physical contact, improving hygiene, which is especially important for health-conscious customers.
Big names like Burger King and McDonald’s use QR Codes so customers can browse the menu and order.
II. Gather customer feedback
Want to know how customers feel about your service? So you may use paper-based forms to collect customer feedback.
But that’s pretty outdated because the data collected from the printed forms isn’t easy to handle and assemble.
Use QR Codes to make it super easy for them! Just add a feedback QR Code to tables, receipts, or even menus, letting customers scan and quickly complete a survey.
For example, A local spot, Kailash Dhaba, uses this QR Code idea on table tent cards so guests can share feedback effortlessly.
III. Make loyalty programs easy
Reward your regulars by linking QR Codes to your loyalty program perks. Instead of having customers track down information or cards, present it to them directly.
Place QR Codes at the point of sale, on shopping bags, or on receipts. Customers can simply scan to access special benefits and all the info they need about your program.
It makes signing up and redeeming rewards quick and hassle-free, encouraging more frequent visits or purchases.
IV. Give access to exclusive content
Give your loyal customers that VIP feel! Use QR Codes to unlock exclusive content like sneak peeks, early releases, or members-only articles.
You can place these QR Codes in emails or social media posts to alert loyal customers to special benefits.
It also encourages potential customers to become prime members. By providing direct access to exclusive offers, you keep customers engaged and coming back for more. I
V. Exciting lucky draws and giveaways
Want to drive up engagement? Host a lucky draw or giveaway!
But how? Instagram doesn’t allow links in post descriptions or reels, and writing out a whole link in print media is inconvenient.
QR Codes to the rescue! You can use a QR Code to direct customers to a registration platform or link to a custom page with a form to collect responses.
From there, you can randomly choose a winner. It’s a fun way to grab attention, increase participation, and get more people interacting with your brand.
Take a look at how Lemon, an investment app, used this QR Code Idea on print ads to give away over 100 Diljit Dosanjh concert tickets!
VI. Help with product authentication
Build trust by letting customers verify the authenticity of your products with QR Codes. This QR Code idea is especially useful for luxury items, medical products, or any product where authenticity is important.
Simply place a QR Code on the packaging or label that links to a verification page or authenticity certifucate, so customers can quickly confirm the product’s legitimacy.
Take Myprotein, for instance, who uses QR Codes to confirm the authenticity of their products.
Image source: apnnews.com
VII. Provide and engaging & gamified experience
Add some fun to discounts with a gamified approach! Instead of a basic discount code, why not let customers spin a virtual wheel or play a game with a QR Code?
It adds excitement and keeps them engaged with your brand.
For example, BRB Chips uses this tactic. They let customers scan QR Codes to play games and win prizes.
VIII. Virtual and AR Experiences
Bring content to life with QR Codes that link to virtual tours or augmented reality experiences.
With just a scan, customers can see 3D product demos in their own space or explore a completely virtual tour.
Imagine a QR Code that takes them on a real estate tour or lets them visit a virtual art gallery. This takes your marketing efforts to the next level by offering an immersive experience.
IX. Personalized playlists
Use this fun QR Code idea to customize the vibe for your customers with personalized playlists.
Link a QR Code to a playlist at events, in stores, or on marketing materials. With dynamic QR Codes, you can even update or change the playlist anytime, keeping things fresh and exciting.
This adds a personal touch and makes the experience memorable: not just visually, but through the power of sound as well.
Chaayos uses this QR Code idea in real life. They have a mural QR Code in their cafe that connects guests to a curated playlist that matches the cafe’s mood. Pretty cool, right?
X. Donation campaigns made simple
Make donating to a cause effortless with this QR Code idea. The obvious use case is using a payment QR Code to receive direct donations without the need for cash.
But that’s not all! You can also use QR Codes to promote your donation event and spread the word.
Placing them on social media or print media helps raise awareness about your donation campaign or fundraiser. When people understand the cause behind it, they’re more likely to contribute.
3. Event and entertainment QR Code ideas
I. Event invitations made easy
Instead of relying on traditional RSVPs, add an event QR Code to your digital invites. Guests can scan it to RSVP instantly, and even access important event details like time, location, and agenda, all in one place.
This makes it easier for guests to confirm their attendance and stay updated, while also saving you time on tracking responses.
II. Smooth check-ins
Want the check-in process to be quick and secure? Traditional tickets can be forged or duplicated easily. Instead, create QR Code tickets using a ticket generator platform.
Send them online to your audience, saving money on printing and postage. At the entrance, use a supporting validator app to scan and validate the tickets.
This speeds up the process and also prevents gatecrashers, ensuring that only those with valid tickets can enter.
III. Interactive scavenger hunts
Whether for kids or adults, a scavenger hunt is always a great activity. Make it more exciting by adding QR Codes.
Simply hide the QR Codes around the venue or city, and let participants scan them to reveal clues or challenges.
This QR idea makes the whole experience much more interactive and engaging. And it can be customized to fit your theme or purpose.
IV. Movie or show promotions
Who doesn’t want to create buzz around their upcoming movie, show, or album? Use QR Codes in unique places like movie posters, billboards, or ads.
Link them to exciting content like trailers, Easter eggs, sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes footage, or exclusive interviews.
This QR Code Idea adds to fans’ excitement around your release. By placing QR Codes in unexpected spots, you can turn any location into a promotional space.
See how Taylor Swift used a mural QR Code in Chicago to drop hints about her album, The Tortured Poet’s Department.
4. Customer convenience with QR Codes Ideas
I. Quick user manuals
Eliminate the need to print and place bulky manuals with products. Use a QR Code instead! Place a document QR Code on your packaging that links directly to the user manual.
You can also add a video QR Code that takes customers to a helpful how-to video. This saves space, reduces printing costs, and makes it easier for users to find the information they need.
II. Secure contactless payments
We can’t leave out the most popular use case of QR Codes, i.e., payment. Whether in-store, at events, or on invoices, QR Codes let customers pay directly through their mobile devices.
It’s fast, safe, and eliminates the need for cash or card swiping.
III. Instant access to FAQs and support
Add QR Codes on stickers, labels, or manuals to link customers to support pages. These QR Codes can provide instant access to FAQs, troubleshooting tips, or user guides.
This is especially useful for complex or tech products, as it allows customers to get the help they need anytime, without having to search manually.
For example, Park+ partners with brands to place stickers on cars with a call-to-action (CTA) “Scan for Help.” Scanning the QR code provides various car-related support services.
B. Creative QR Code ideas for personal use
I. Digital business cards
If you’re a working professional, you’d have a business card of your own. In fact, you would’ve received many business cards too.
After all, how else would one share their contact details for networking purposes? But most of the business cards end up in bins because it’s a long process to save contact using them.
Business card QR Codes here increase the possibility of your contact being saved. People simply need to scan it to see all your contact details.
You can share a description, profile picture, mobile number, email, address, website, social media handles, and whatnot!
Scanova Insight: Our data shows that 3.95% of all QR codes created are business card QR codes.
II. Wedding invitations
A QR Code on a wedding invitation helps you share everything that couldn’t fit on the physical card. You can share it digitally or print it on your physical invitations.
For example, you can add detailed event information, images, videos, weblinks, social sharing buttons, or even files.
Plus, it comes with a convenient RSVP button, so guests can respond without the hassle of snail mail. Since the RSVP process becomes so easy, you’re likely to see a much better response rate.
III. Wi-Fi access made simple
Use a QR Code to provide the Wi-Fi password to your guests. Instead of guests asking for the password or typing it out incorrectly, they can simply scan the QR Code to connect instantly.
Place it in common areas like the living room, kitchen, or guest room. This is especially useful for hotels, resorts, cafes, restaurants, offices, and coworking spaces.
IV. Bring life to your resume
Recruiters spend less than a minute screening each resume. That means your resume’s content should be pretty enthusiastic yet concise.
This new QR Code idea is helping jobseekers overcome this dilemma. They’re using QR Codes on resumes to add all the details they can’t add to a single page.
As the recruiter scans, they see the encoded details in no time.
V. QR Code tattoos
Some people go a step ahead to not just make it unique but also interactive. Yes, they get tattooed with a QR Code.
This, in fact, is one of the craziest ideas for using a QR Code. In case you’re wondering what the QR Code leads to, here are some possibilities:
- A quote that’s important to you
- Your life motto
- Your parent’s/partner’s name.
It could be anything. But just make sure you get inked with a permanent (static) QR Code. That’s because the editable (dynamic) ones may not work in case your QR Code generator discontinues the business. You’ll then be stuck with a tattoo that just doesn’t work.
A real-life example of this is when Katy Perry showed off her QR code tattoo at the 2024 VMAs, which linked directly to her studio album ‘143.’
VI. Make gifts extra special
Do something new and interesting for your special ones! Add a QR Code to your gift wrapping that links to a personal message, heartfelt video, or cherished photo album.
Imagine their joy when they scan it and discover a touching surprise. This QR Code idea is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion!
VII. Pet ID tags with a twist
If you’re a pet owner, you know how precious your pets are. You certainly don’t want them to get lost, right?
A QR Code on your pet’s tag or collar can link to important information, such as your contact details, medical history, or even a profile page for your pet. If they get lost, this gives people an easy way to contact you.
VIII. Share memories easily
Have you ever felt the hassle of sending multimedia one by one to different people? Or do you want a group of people to see specific videos or images?
You can do this by using QR Codes for images or videos for holidays, reunions, or just because, it’s an easy way to share memories with loved ones.
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C. Bring your QR Code ideas to life with Scanova
Now that you’re familiar with so many fun QR Code ideas to boost engagement in your campaigns, let’s explore how to actually create them.
Bringing these QR ideas to life takes just a few minutes. Here’s a simple guide to get you going.
Step 1: Open any QR code generator (we are using Scanova because it is pretty easy to work with).
Step 2: Of more than 20 QR Code categories, select the desired type of QR Code and click on the ‘Continue’ button.
Step 3: Give a name to the QR Code for further campaign handling.
Next, select whether you want to create a static or dynamic QR Code. Dynamic QR Codes are editable and trackable, whereas static QR Codes are permanent and cannot be edited or tracked.
Note: To create dynamic QR Codes, sign up for a 14-day free trial (no credit card required). Test it out with your campaigns, and if it fits your needs, continue with a subscription plan.
Step 4: Now your black-and-white QR Code is ready! But do plain, monochrome QR Codes match your out-of-box ideas?
We think it’s better to design a QR Code that reflects your brand and purpose.
- Click the ‘Edit Design’ option below the QR Code, then select ‘Custom Logo Design.’
- You can either use the recommended templates for quick customization or click ‘QR Code from Scratch’ to build a fully customized design.
- Adjust the data and eye patterns, add gradient colors, and incorporate your logo. For a more engaging experience, include CTA (call-to-action) frames like “Visit Website,” “Scan to View Our Menu,” or any other message that suits your purpose.
- For an extra creative touch, experiment with the beta version of our AI-generated designs. Just provide a prompt to change your QR Code’s background.
Step 5: After editing, click “Done Editing” and then “Download.” You’ll be able to choose the format and size of your QR Code.
For digital campaigns select raster formats like JPEG or PNG and for print campaigns select vector formats like SVG, PDF, and EPS.
D. Why you can’t miss out on creative QR Code ideas
While QR Codes are increasingly popular in a few areas, their full potential is still far from being tapped. If you’re not exploring unique QR Code ideas, you’re missing out on some real benefits.
1. Engage your audience in new ways
Breaking through the noise is one of the most difficult challenges marketers have to face. New QR Code ideas ensure you’re coming up with something new and different each time.
They could be used to offer exclusive content, conduct a short survey, or send a personal message.
2. Stay ahead of the competition
Using QR Codes ideas creatively ensures that you’re not just keeping up with trends, you’re setting them.
Doing something unique will always give you the first-mover advantage, setting you apart from competitors.
Scanova is the ultimate tool for dynamic and quick marketing. With this innovative platform, we could easily create and track customized QR codes for all our marketing campaigns. Whether it’s for print materials, billboards, or social media, their QR codes are the perfect way to drive traffic to your website or promotions.
– said Harsh in his G2 review of Scanova
3. Viral potential with user-generated content
An engaging or fun QR Code experience is likely to be shared. Users who find something interesting or unique might share it on social media, helping your content go viral.
And since QR Codes can be scanned from images, they’re perfect for sharing.
4. Sustainability and cost-effectiveness
QR Codes are inexpensive and environment-friendly. Unlike printed materials that constantly need updating, QR Codes link to digital content.
Instead of reprinting flyers to update information, you can use dynamic QR Codes that let you control and update the content anytime. Plus, reducing paper use contributes to sustainability—a win-win!
5. Link offline to online
QR Codes are a perfect way to turn your offline audience into online traffic. They connect your offline marketing efforts (like print ads, billboards, or event materials) with your digital platforms, driving traffic to your website, social media, or app.
Check out the brands that have chosen Scanova for their QR code needs:
E. Tips for designing effective QR Codes
1. Keep the design simple
While creating your design, ensure that it is simple and easy to understand. There should be proper contrast between the QR Code and background, and it should not be too cluttered. It should be pleasing to the eye.
2. Optimize for mobile scanning
Since QR Codes are primarily made to be scanned on smartphone cameras, make sure it’s compatible with them. Test on different devices to see how it works before rolling out the campaign.
3. Provide value for the audience
People will only scan your QR Code if they have something in store for them. It could be valuable information, exclusive content, deals, discounts, or anything else.
4. Place QR Codes in high-visibility locations
QR Codes must be placed in locations where users can easily see them. For example, it won’t make sense to place a QR Code at the bottom of the packaging because people hardly see that.
F. FAQs: QR Code ideas
1. What should I put on my QR Code?
It really depends on what you’re using the QR Code for. For social media, you can add the logo of the platform it links to.
If it’s for your website, featuring your brand’s logo works best. A good strategy is to pair your logo with a call-to-action (CTA) frame to guide people on what to do next.
2. How can I make my QR Code more attractive?
To make your QR Code pop, use a generator like Scanova that lets you customize the design. Keep it simple and clean, meaning don’t overcrowd it.
Use contrasting colors between the background and the QR pattern to catch people’s attention.
3. What are some creative uses of QR Codes in marketing?
QR Codes are perfect to bring creativity to your usual campaigns. You can link them to exclusive content, surveys, or interactive experiences.
For example, placing a QR Code on your product packaging that leads to a demo or best practices video can improve engagement. Just make sure there’s some value for the user.
In a nutshell
There are plenty of amazing ways to use QR Codes for businesses, professionals, and individuals in 2025.
The creative QR Code ideas shared in this blog are just a few examples, feel free to come up with your own unique ways to make QR Codes work for you.
If you have any doubts or new ideas to share, don’t hesitate to leave a comment!