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Imagine a world without restaurants, hotels, cafes, pubs, and other similar places! It might seem impossible to you now, but the situation was about to happen during the global COVID lockdowns. Well, since then, the hospitality industry has tried to adopt technology in every way possible. One such technological advancement has been the use of QR codes in the hospitality industry.
QR codes have been in use for quite a few years now, and the trend is not going anytime soon. From menus and payments to promotions and customer data, these codes have transformed every function in the hospitality industry.
According to a report by Touchbistro, 7 out of 10 US-based restaurants are opting to use QR codes. Undoubtedly, QR codes are here to stay, and you shouldn’t miss them too!
In this blog, we will talk about why QR codes are making a buzz in the hospitality industry. We will also discuss 4 steal-worthy use cases of QR codes. So, let’s dive in!
Why are QR codes becoming Popular in the Hospitality Industry?
QR codes were an angel in disguise for restaurants and hotels during the pandemic. But it’s not the only reason for their extreme popularity. Here are some other reasons that help to understand the buzz for these codes:
1. Multiple uses:
You can create QR codes for almost everything. People can access menus, check in/check out, pay bills, avail offers, share information, and do many other things with QR codes. One product can help with multiple business activities.
2. Contactless experience:
The demand for contactless solutions has increased immensely post the COVID pandemic. QR codes fulfill this demand by offering a touchless experience. Anyone can simply scan a QR code without any physical contact for multiple uses.
3. Enhanced customer experience:
Customer experience is one of the most crucial pillars of a successful hospitality business. And QR codes help achieve that. QR codes are interactive and easy to use and help in giving an enhanced customer experience to customers. Such customer experience helps hospitality businesses acquire customer loyalty and trust.
4. Real-time updates:
Suppose you created a QR code and linked a form to get customer information. Any updates made to the form will automatically be reflected to people scanning the QR code. It ensures that scanners have access only to the most current information.
5. Convenience:
Hospitality businesses are focused on providing convenience not only to their customers but also to their staff for more efficient operations. This is where QR codes play an important role. QR codes provide the right technology and automation that empowers your staff to provide stellar customer service.
These reasons are a clear testament to the growing dependency of the hospitality industry on QR code technology. Since now you know the importance of QR codes, this is your moment to take a look at some of the best real-life use cases of QR codes in the hospitality industry.
4 Hospitality Businesses are Using QR Codes like No one else
Starbucks:
You talk about brands in the hospitality industry, and not talk about Starbucks’s impossible! Starbucks is a renowned coffee brand with impeccable customer loyalty and service. The brand has always been on the front when it comes to using technology. And is now doing the same with QR codes. Starbucks has started using QR codes in its promotional campaigns like print ads to increase coffee sales. They are partnering with magazines and newspapers in major US cities to make a buzz with their QR code initiative. Starbucks’s QR code marketing campaign is a perfect example of using technology to provide convenience to customers.
Coca-Cola:
Coca-Cola isn’t a new name when it comes to using QR codes. While the hospitality businesses are now being attracted to new technologies, Coca-Cola chose that way back in 2012 with their “Share a Coke” campaign. They integrated the QR codes on their product labels. On scanning, customers entered into an augmented reality experience. Apart from this, Coca-Cola’s QR codes also connected consumers to the brand’s online community called SmileWorld.
Fab Hotels:
Fab Hotels is an Indian hotel brand providing budget stays in more than 50 cities of the country. They not only use QR codes to direct people to download their app but also use these codes in their properties. They print QR codes on their welcome cards. Upon scanning, the guests can avail the password for the wifi of the hotel. Airbnb properties also use QR codes this way!
Nando’s:
The popular global restaurant, Nando’s also started using QR codes in the wake of social distancing during COVID. They still have the system running at specific locations. The brand gives a QR code to scan. Upon scanning, the customers land on the menu where they can add items to the cart. Then, the customers need to enter their table number at checkout. Once the food is ready, the staff will deliver it to the customers’ table. In this way, Nando’s uses QR codes for food ordering!
Tips for Successful QR Code Marketing in the Hospitality Industry
Promote the availability of QR codes through your website, social media channels, and emails.
- Make sure to have clear and concise content written over the QR code sticker or poster.
- Strategically place QR codes in high-traffic areas, such as reception desks, dining tables, or guest rooms, to maximize exposure.
- Protect your QR codes and linked content against unauthorized access or tampering to maintain the trust of your guests.
Wrapping Up
Undoubtedly, QR codes are no less than a game-changing solution for the hospitality industry. They not only help businesses to adapt to new technology but also engage customers through an interactive experience.
Looking to adopt QR code in your hospitality business? Try Reelo for Free and create powerful QR codes for your business!
