ŠKoonsiri – stock.adobe.com
Could QR codes transform hospitality? Could QR codes revolutionise the hospitality industry? While far from being mainstream in New Zealand, the use of QR codes is on the rise thanks to improved technology and innovations in consumer engagement. Created in the early 1990s by a subsidiary of Toyota, QR (quick response) codes are a sophisticated form of barcode that can hold up to 100 times more information than their traditional counterparts. However, they had fallen out of favour with advertisers by 2012, in large part due to their clunky nature. In short, QR codes provide an easy link (like a hyperlink in an email) to a web page that can contain a range of content from text, images, and video or even a survey.
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AccomNews - Winter 2020
from interactive marketing to trans-forming the onproperty experience.
The rise of QR codes in travel
Brendan Granger, Director, Technology4Hotels
To scan a QR code with their smartphone, users first had to download a third-party app. Now, most smartphones have a built-in QR code scanning camera, which saves a significant amount of hassle and makes the technology far more appealing. As such, this presents hotels with new opportunities to engage guests with QR codes,
QR codes are already huge in China. When it comes to travel, Chinese travellers can use QR codes for virtually every element of their trip, from booking flights to paying for hotels and handling all transactions during their stay. All of which is facilitated through WeChat and mobile payment apps such as Alipay. In fact, a new service launched last year in China lets guests scan a QR code to check whether their sheets and towels have been thoroughly washed. For hotels looking to capitalise on high-spending Chinese tourists, providing QR code technology is a vital step.
TECHNOLOGY
Of course, with growing global popularity, QR codes offer a host of advantages that all travellers can benefit from. With that in mind, here are some of the pros and cons for hotels to consider.
The pros of QR codes By pointing a camera and scanning a code, your guests can potentially do anything from making payments and learning about your rooftop bar to re-deeming rewards and booking amenities.
Enhanced room service Hotels are now starting to use QR codes instead of printed materials to increase guest engagement and create upsell opportunities. When it comes to in-room dining, physical menus with a contact number can be replaced by a QR code on the table stand. www.accomnews.co.nz
