QR codes are appearing more and more frequently in our lives. We see them on flyers, business cards, offers, instructions and also in vending. QR codes in vending machines add new, interesting features to your business. How else can we use QR codes in vending?
How do QR codes work?
A QR code works in the same way as a barcode on a supermarket product. The unique code consisting of black squares and dots contains specific information about the product. This information can be read with a smartphone, for example; scanning the QR code with a camera app will open the website or app associated with the code.
Do I need a QR code reader in the machine?
No, you do not need a reader in the machine to use the QR code option. Simply stick the machine's unique QR code onto the machine casing and that's it. This method does not interfere with the machine casing. To use the basic options described below, you don't need to purchase any additional devices.
How QR codes work in vending machines?
QR codes in vending machines can perform many functions that diversify operators' offerings and help improve sales performance and customer relations. The latter is an important part of sales, even with vending. Find out how QR codes can increase the appeal of your vending machines.
Reporting errors and problems at the machine
QR codes are a great option for reporting vending machine errors. If a product does not fall out, or the vending machine does not give change, the customer can scan the QR code and choose to report the problem. In a handy application, he briefly describes the problem and leaves his contact details, and the operator receives a notification of the issue.
With all the information about the problem, the vending machine operator can immediately contact the buyer or remotely send a credit to the machine. In the VendingMetrics application, he can manage all complaints, solve them remotely and thus prevent similar problems in the future.
Thanks to QR codes, solving a problem can take only a few minutes, without having to call a service technician and wait for the problem to be resolved. Fast management and response to requests significantly improves customer satisfaction, which simultaneously affects vending machine reviews and sales results.
Customer feedback about the machine and the products
With QR codes, customers can also give their feedback on the product, the vending machine itself and even request the addition of a completely new product. Communication with the customer in a vending machine is extremely important — products that are not willingly bought will not generate sales.
With feedback from customers on the quality of products or products that should appear in the vending machine, we can tailor our offer to the needs of our customers. At the same time, we can increase profits from sales in previously unprofitable locations. The QR option is great precisely for those places where the vending machine, or some product does not sell out. Thanks to information from customers, you know what to pay attention to, how to improve the quality of your products or how to diversify your offer.
Improving the work of service technicians
Service staff on their way to the vending machine thanks to VendingMetrics have a list of products that need to be refilled. With QR codes they can check in at the machine to let the operator know their location. All information is recorded in the vending management system and you, as the operator, control not only the sales but also the operation of your machines.
How to start using QR codes in a vending machine?
To get started and use the basic functions, you don't even need to invest in a telemetry device, just the VendingMetrics machine management system. Each machine has a generated individual QR code, which you can stick on the machine and immediately use the options listed above. QR code support can already be found in the VendingMetrics 'Starter' plan.
