Brands around the country are leveraging QR codes to further elevate their OOH campaigns
The Rise of QR Codes
Over the past two years, the adoption of QR codes has seen a remarkable surge, creating a golden opportunity for advertisers to leverage this technology as part of their OOH campaigns. A 323% jump in U.S. QR code usage from 2021 to 2023, as documented by Statista, underscores this trend. Facilitated by the intuitive recognition of QR codes by today’s smartphones, this upswing simplifies connecting consumers from tangible ads to online destinations.
Airports have become hotspots for QR code interactions, with Neustar data revealing that nearly half of the travelers (45%) in US airports engaged with a QR code in the past month, indicating the prime real estate these locations offer for advertisers.
Providing Relevant and Targeted Information
One notable campaign is by TCL at Los Angeles International Airport. Targeting the high traffic of tech enthusiasts traveling to CES, the world’s largest tech convention, TCL leveraged our digital network during the week leading up to the event. Their bright creative not only presents the companies’ new QD mini-LED TV but incorporates a QR code to guide users to the company’s CES booth details and to enter a product giveaway. This added interactive aspect allows interested travelers to engage with the brand further, staying top of mind even before they reach the convention.
Streamlining Digital Engagement
Popular event venue, the Kia Center, has made an impactful presence at Orlando International Airport. Their eye-catching creatives, displayed on 45 full-motion screens in the baggage claim area —a spot known for high dwell-time—highlight the venue’s renovation for the 2024 season. The ads engage travelers with QR codes, inviting them to delve into the 2024 schedule and secure tickets for upcoming sports and entertainment events. Here the use of QR codes is especially effective, with Nielsen research showing that 38% of people are motivated to visit a website after seeing an OOH ad that piques their interest. By facilitating an easy transition to mobile the QR codes not only streamline the digital engagement process, but also significantly boost the potential for on-the-spot ticket sales.
Driving Direct Action
Quest Trust, a retirement planning and financial advisory firm, is also making its mark with QR codes. Their new OOH campaign at Houston Hobby Airport further demonstrates the technology’s potential in driving direct action. Located on our prominent digital spectaculars, the ad captures the attention of passing travelers and facilitates immediate engagement, allowing passengers to schedule consultations on the spot by scanning the integrated QR code. This approach taps into a significant market need, as highlighted by The Harris Poll: 52% of Americans are not satisfied with their bank’s savings options, and 90% are interested in investing but lack clear starting points. Quest Trust’s campaign smartly addresses this gap, using QR codes to connect travelers directly with financial solutions.
The 3 different campaigns illustrate the versatility and power of QR codes in OOH advertising. Deepening consumer interaction, providing real-time insights into campaign performance and consumer location data, QR codes continue to cement their role in the advertising landscape. Especially in airports, a high dwell time environment. Their integration into OOH strategies is poised for growth, offering brands a dynamic way to engage with the ever-connected airport audience.