Published
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Aug 7, 2023

From Plastic To Digital: The Rise of QR Code Loyalty Cards

Ellie Bradford
August 7, 2023

Discover how QR code loyalty cards are revolutionizing customer engagement in retail, offering convenience, higher engagement, and eco-friendly solutions. Learn about the benefits and how Influence.io is leading the charge.

Ecommerce

In the ever-evolving world of retail, customer loyalty is paramount to the success of any business. To foster a strong bond with customers, businesses have long relied on loyalty cards. 

However, with technological advancements, the traditional plastic loyalty card is transforming into a digital marvel - the QR code loyalty card. 

18% of plastic card-based loyalty users remained active after 3 months as opposed to an 83% mobile-based loyalty program.” - Beaconstac

For example, in the past, coffee shops used to reward customers with stamps for each cup purchased. Once customers collected enough stamps on their loyalty cards, they could redeem them for a 'free coffee.' 

However, traditional loyalty cards are gradually disappearing because of virtual wallets like Google, Android & Apple Pay. 

These virtual wallets provide scannable QR codes, eliminating the need for physical cards and ensuring that customers won't misplace their rewards. As a result, customers are more likely to carry their rewards with them at all times for easy redemption.

In this blog, we will explore the benefits and possibilities of using QR codes as loyalty cards, while outlining how Influence.io’s QR loyalty codes work for merchants.

The Benefits of QR Codes as New Age Loyalty Cards

QR codes have become ubiquitous in our daily lives, appearing on product packaging, advertisements, restaurant menus, and so on. 

Now, these versatile codes are revolutionizing customer loyalty programs. Unlike conventional loyalty cards, QR codes offer a number of advantages:

  • Convenience: Customers no longer need to carry a physical card, as their loyalty code can be stored on their smartphones, making it easier for customers to earn & redeem points in-store.
  • Higher Engagement: QR codes can be seamlessly integrated into various platforms, enhancing customer interactions.
  • Eco-Friendly: QR codes eliminate the need for plastic cards, making them environmentally friendly - which allows merchants to reduce their environmental impact while increasing their profit margins simultaneously.

5 Key Features of Influence.io’s QR Code Loyalty Card

1. Increase Engagement With Customizable Loyalty Cards

With the power of QR codes, businesses can embed Influence.io loyalty card widgets directly into their point-of-sale (POS) systems for customers to redeem and earn points in brick-and-mortar stores.

By simply scanning a customer's QR code, store assistants can easily view and access their loyalty information with ease. Removing the lengthy process of inputting customers' information into the POS system, saves both parties time.

Also, businesses can customize their QR Code's appearance directly in the dashboard. Merchants can add their logo or change the color scheme to seamlessly match it with their brand identity.

2. Floating QR Code Loyalty Card Widget On Each Page

To offer an uninterrupted shopping experience, Influence.io offers the ability for merchants to incorporate a floating widget that allows customers to access their loyalty information from any page on the website.

We’ve made this option togglable so that merchants can easily add this to multiple landing pages on and off to ensure customers never miss an opportunity to engage with the loyalty program with the convenient pop-up widget.

4. Scan Directly from POS System for Customer Details

The integration of QR codes with the POS system enables customers to scan their loyalty codes directly, providing businesses with essential customer data. This information can be used to personalize offers and create a more tailored shopping experience and allows customers to earn & redeem points efficiently.

5. Apple & Google Wallet Integration

As mobile wallets become more prevalent, businesses can expand their reach by integrating loyalty cards into platforms like Apple Wallet and Google Wallet. This ensures that customers have easy access to their loyalty information with just a few taps on their smartphones.

While the Apple & Google wallet integration is not yet live for Influence.io customers, the update is in motion and this feature will soon become a reality, allowing merchants to offer their Loyalty Card QR Codes as cards in their virtual wallet.

Also, we have added the option for merchants to download the QR code as a PDF Download option as a replacement. For customers who prefer a physical card, businesses can offer a PDF download option.

This way, customers can print their loyalty cards with the embedded QR code, providing a tangible option for those who appreciate traditional loyalty cards. Or, for merchants, they can have the best of both worlds and send the QR Codes to manufacturers to make physical cards for their customers that align with their specific account.

6. CSV Import/Export for Seamless Loyalty Transfer

To cater to customers who are switching from an alternative loyalty program platform, businesses can enable CSV import/export functionality. This allows customers to transfer their loyalty cards effortlessly, ensuring a smooth transition between devices and systems.

The Next Generation of Loyalty Programs: QR Code Loyalty Cards

QR codes have undoubtedly emerged as a game-changer in the world of loyalty cards. By embracing this digital evolution, businesses can enhance customer engagement, strengthen brand loyalty, and stay ahead of the competition. 

Integrating QR codes into loyalty programs not only streamlines the process for customers but also offers businesses valuable insights into customer behavior and preferences. 

As we look toward the future, the convergence of technology and loyalty programs promises exciting opportunities for businesses to build lasting connections with their customers. Want to use QR code loyalty cards? Sign up today using our free trial.

To learn more about the integration of QR codes as loyalty cards and explore support resources, check out our support article.