While QR codes have some supporters — mainly large retailers — they’re still trying to make friends at the mall.
In a recent survey cited on Mobile Commerce Press’ blog, only 7.2 percent of the 700 retail stores in Boston-area shopping malls used the two-dimensional barcode. These stores primarily used the QR codes for their main window displays or for product information. Large retailers, though, are expanding their use of QR codes.
Also, QR codes are still trying to win over consumers. Many shoppers are unfamiliar with the codes while others are hesitant to scan them because some have led to malicious links.
Retailers have to ensure that their QR codes — just like any promotion — are secure. They also need to have the infrastructure and the in-house systems to take the data they collect and turn it into actionable information. If retailers are going to use QR codes, they need to have the infrastructure to use the data and the security to give their customers peace of mind.
Source: Mobile Commerce Press, January 2012
