In 2025, QR codes are no longer just handy shortcuts—they’re a core part of how businesses connect with customers, manage operations, and deliver information. From product packaging to print ads, from retail stores to hospitals, the use of QR codes is growing across virtually every industry. But which industries use QR codes most—and why? That’s what we’re here to uncover.
Whether it’s a dynamic QR code powering customer engagement in marketing campaigns or standard codes enabling secure transactions in retail, the ways businesses utilize QR code technology are expanding fast. And with mobile devices and internet access now ubiquitous, users trust QR codes more than ever—scanning millions each day to get instant, reliable access to what they need.
Industries that use QR codes the most
Let’s dive into the sectors leading the charge in QR code adoption and how they’re turning these two-dimensional barcodes into valuable tools for business transformation.
Retail and e-commerce: QR codes in the aisles and on the box
Retailers were among the first to adopt QR codes, and their usage hasn’t slowed down. From in-store signage to product packaging, QR codes offer shoppers instant access to product details, promotions, loyalty programs, and reviews. In e-commerce, QR codes are often printed on shipping boxes or receipts to guide customers toward reorders or feedback forms.
Dynamic QR codes are especially powerful in this space, allowing brands to update destination content (such as sales pages or seasonal offers) without reprinting materials. As a result, many retailers now integrate QR code creation directly into their marketing workflows.
Example: A cosmetics brand may use customized QR codes on packaging to link to tutorials and ingredient information—boosting transparency and consumer engagement.
Hospitality and restaurants: QR code menus and beyond
The hospitality industry, especially restaurants and hotels, experienced a major shift during the pandemic when contactless became a priority. QR code menus became a standard, and even as paper menus return, many venues continue to use QR codes for convenience, hygiene, and cost savings.
Hotels use QR codes in rooms for easy access to digital room service menus, spa bookings, or local recommendations. This use of quick response codes enhances the guest experience while reducing the need for printed materials.
Pro tip: Restaurants can also use dynamic QR codes for rotating specials, ensuring menus stay fresh and relevant without the need to reprint.
Healthcare: Fast access to critical information
Hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies are increasingly using QR codes to streamline processes and improve patient communication. From prescription labels linking to usage instructions to hospital posters directing patients to online check-ins, QR codes are now common in medical environments.
This sector benefits from QR code applications in user manuals for medical devices, patient education, appointment confirmations, and even vaccine verification. And thanks to secure QR code technology, sensitive data remains protected during transmission.
Example: A printed QR code on a medical device package can direct healthcare professionals to updated instructions or training videos, even years after distribution.
Education: Making learning more interactive
Educational institutions are increasingly leveraging QR codes to modernize how they share resources. From classroom posters to student handouts, QR codes offer instant access to multimedia materials, assignments, and course content—no login required.
Universities and schools also integrate QR codes into student IDs for rapid access to campus facilities, event check-ins, and attendance tracking. Some even use dynamic QR codes in digital business cards for academic networking or alumni directories.
Example: A professor might include a QR code on a slide deck that links to a supplementary video or academic paper, helping students explore topics in more depth.
Logistics and warehousing: Scanning for accuracy and speed
If there’s one industry that’s all about speed and precision, it’s logistics—and QR codes have proven to be a perfect fit. Used for inventory management, shipment tracking, and delivery validation, QR codes streamline operations from warehouse to doorstep.
Unlike traditional barcodes, QR codes hold more data and can encode links, dates, product IDs, and more—making them ideal for internal processes. With QR code scanners and mobile devices, workers can track goods with minimal friction and greater accuracy.
Example: A warehouse might implement QR codes on storage shelves linked to real-time inventory systems, allowing staff to check stock levels instantly.
Finance and banking: Secure, fast, contactless transactions
Financial institutions are adopting QR codes for secure transactions, mobile payments, and account access. QR code payments have exploded in popularity, particularly in Asia, and the trend is now growing globally.
Banks use QR codes on account statements, marketing materials, and ATM screens to facilitate everything from onboarding to feedback collection. Because they enable quick access without passwords or apps, QR codes offer a seamless customer experience across platforms.
Pro tip: QR code usage statistics show a consistent rise in QR-based financial interactions, especially in contactless payments and secure logins via mobile apps.
Which industries use QR codes in unexpected ways?
While retail and finance lead in QR code usage, several industries are finding innovative ways to utilize QR codes—sometimes in surprising places.
Real estate: From signage to virtual tours
QR codes are now common on “For Sale” signs, directing potential buyers to virtual walkthroughs, listings, or agent contact details. It’s a smart way to connect the physical and digital worlds in a traditionally offline business.
Realtors also use QR codes in printed brochures and open house flyers to provide additional context, mortgage calculators, or even real-time scheduling tools.
Example: A homebuyer walking by a property can scan a QR code to watch a video tour and book a visit, without ever talking to an agent first.
Manufacturing: From machinery to manuals
Manufacturers are integrating QR codes into everything from production line equipment to final product packaging. These codes link to maintenance guides, safety protocols, and parts catalogs.
For B2B transactions, dynamic QR codes make it easier to update technical documentation over time, reducing paper waste and ensuring accuracy.
Pro tip: Use QR codes to support multilingual documentation—especially useful in global supply chains.
Event management: Scan to enter, engage, and connect
QR codes make event logistics smoother. From digital ticketing and attendee check-ins to scavenger hunts and in-booth engagement, QR codes offer organizers a way to manage crowds and capture valuable data.
Exhibitors often use marketing QR codes to deliver brochures, capture leads, or link to demo videos—without needing printed materials.
Example: A conference badge with a unique QR code can store contact details, session bookings, and even lunch preferences.
Which industries use QR codes to engage consumers directly?
Let’s shift focus to industries using QR codes to boost consumer engagement and retention—especially in their marketing efforts.
Marketing and advertising: Turning curiosity into clicks
QR codes are now a staple in marketing campaigns. Whether printed on billboards, in-store signage, or TV commercials, they provide a measurable call-to-action that bridges physical media with digital experiences.
Creative marketers are using customized QR codes with branded elements and CTAs to boost scan rates. QR code campaigns can lead to product trials, contests, surveys, or promotional videos—giving consumers an interactive way to connect.
Tip: QR code analytics help marketers measure performance in real-time, enabling smarter campaign adjustments.
Food and beverage: Transparency and trust on the label
QR codes are widely implemented in the food and beverage industry, offering access to sourcing details, nutritional facts, allergen alerts, and even recipes. As consumers demand transparency, QR codes offer a frictionless way to build trust.
With upcoming regulations on digital product passports and sustainability labeling, this industry is set to deepen its reliance on QR technology.
Example: A QR code on a yogurt cup could link to a short video showing the farm where the milk was sourced—connecting storytelling with compliance.
Consumer electronics: Support and setup made simple
Many electronics brands use QR codes on packaging or product inserts to simplify setup, warranty registration, or troubleshooting. This improves user experience while reducing the need for printed manuals.
QR codes also serve as gateways to customer loyalty programs or mobile apps, driving long-term engagement.
Pro tip: Place QR codes near ports or battery compartments so users can easily access help during setup.
How are QR codes used in manufacturing?
Manufacturing uses QR codes to improve internal workflows, product traceability, and after-sales support. Here’s how:
- Production tracking: QR codes track items through various stages of assembly.
- Machine maintenance: Codes link to digital manuals and logs.
- Product lifecycle data: QR codes support regulatory compliance by encoding manufacturing and expiry dates.
With dynamic QR codes, manufacturers can update instructions or alerts based on new regulations or recall notices.
Are QR codes useful in B2B industries?
Absolutely. While QR codes are often seen as a consumer tool, B2B industries are leveraging them to:
- Digitize trade show materials
- Streamline procurement processes
- Track equipment usage
- Enhance printed catalogs with digital layers
They are especially valuable in industries where field operations require rapid access to technical data or service requests.
What future industries will adopt QR codes next?
The rapid rise of mobile internet, contactless habits, and AI integration is expanding the possibilities for QR codes. Here’s where we’re likely to see more adoption soon:
Automotive
From QR codes on dashboards linking to user manuals to codes in repair shops for diagnostics, the automotive industry is exploring how QR codes can improve both consumer and technician experiences.
Smart homes
Appliances, lighting systems, and even thermostats are shipping with QR codes that guide users through setup and connectivity—bridging analog hardware with digital control.
Public sector
Governments are starting to use QR codes on documents, licenses, and public notices to reduce bureaucracy and improve accessibility.
Final thoughts: Why industries keep turning to QR codes
So, which industries use QR codes most? The answer is: nearly all of them—each with unique goals and creative implementations. Whether it’s about improving efficiency, deepening customer engagement, or simplifying access to information, QR codes offer flexible, scalable, and user-friendly solutions.
And with the rise of dynamic QR codes and better QR code generator platforms, it’s never been easier for businesses to incorporate this technology into their operations.
As long as mobile devices stay in our pockets and the physical and digital worlds keep colliding, QR code usage will only grow.
What’s the best way to get started with QR codes?
Choose a reliable, secure platform like QR Code KIT that lets you create dynamic QR codes, track performance, and customize your design for your brand.
Whether you want to launch a marketing campaign, streamline operations, or offer a better user experience—QR codes make it easy.
What makes QR codes a valuable tool across industries?
Their flexibility, low cost, and universal compatibility make QR codes a uniquely powerful asset for any business—especially in a fast-paced, mobile-first world.
