Benefits of Using QR Code in OOH Ads

Published On
July 14, 2025
QR codes in OOH ads bring together the physical and digital worlds. They turn static ads into interactive, trackable experiences. From boosting engagement to measuring results and increasing sales, QR-powered ads are changing how outdoor advertising works for brands in 2025.

Out-of-home (OOH) advertising, like billboards and posters, has been around for a long time. Generally, they are static and show a direct message to the audience. However, things have changed now! With the rise of technology, we now have digital OOH and creative ads that were nearly impossible earlier. One of the most useful technologies for OOH ads is QR. Adding QR codes to these ads changes the whole game. QR codes make ads more interactive, measurable, and fun. More importantly, it makes your static OOH advertisement a door for something bigger and more engaging to the audience. In this blog, we will explore the surprising benefits of using QR codes in OOH explained simply!

What is a QR Code?

A QR code is a black-and-white square that you scan with your phone. A QR works as a door to a different page. For example - it can take you to a website, show a video, or give you a coupon-almost anything online.

Why Are QR Codes in OOH Ads So Powerful?

1. Instant Engagement

QR codes turn boring ads into interactive experiences. Instead of just looking, people can scan and take action right away.

For Example - A bus stop ad with a QR code can offer a discount code or show a cool video.

Here is a Fact You Should Know: Over 70% of smartphone users have scanned a QR code in the past year.

2. Real-Time Offline-to-Online Connection

QR codes connect the physical world to the digital world in seconds. Now, you don’t need to remember a website or search for a brand any more! You can scan and go! This makes it easy for people to visit your website, follow your social media, or download your app.

3. Trackable and Measurable Results

QR also helps you track the campaign results. With QR codes, you can see how many people scanned your ad, when, and where. This helps brands know which ads work best and where to spend their money. Here’s a thing only pros use with QR codes: You can even update the QR code’s content without changing the ad, using dynamic QR codes.

Feature Traditional OOH Ad OOH Ad with QR Code
Interaction Low High (scan & engage)
Measurability Hard to track Easy to measure
Content Flexibility Static Dynamic (can update)

4. Boosts Brand Awareness and Loyalty

QR can also boost awareness among people more than traditional outdoor ads. People remember brands that offer something extra, like a QR code with a special offer or game.

So what can you do? As a brand, you can reward loyal customers with exclusive deals through QR codes. This builds stronger relationships with customers and keeps them coming back.

5. Increases Sales and Conversions

QR codes can increase your sales by multiple times. As we have discussed, QR codes serve as a door. This leads people to some things more and it makes it easy for people to buy products or sign up for services right from the ad.

For example: A billboard with a QR code can link directly to an online store or a flash sale. This instant action can boost sales much more than ads without QR codes.

Surprising Facts about QR Codes in OOH Ads

  • The global QR code market was worth $1.5 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $3.5 billion by 2033.
  • Combining OOH ads with QR codes can boost ad awareness by up to 200%.
  • In 2025, over 94 million people in the U.S. will use QR scanners, growing to 102.6 million by 2026.
  • 49% of people have looked up an advertiser after seeing an OOH ad, and QR codes make this even easier.

How QR Codes Make OOH Ads Better?

  • For Marketers: Easy to see what works, update campaigns, and get real data.
  • For Consumers: Fun, fast, and interactive way to connect with brands and get rewards.
  • For Brands: Stand out as modern and tech-savvy, especially with younger audiences.

Quick Tips for Using QR Codes in OOH Ads:

  • Make sure the QR code is big and easy to scan.
  • Offer something valuable: a discount, video, or game.
  • Use dynamic QR codes so you can update the content anytime.
  • Track your scans to see which ads work best.

Conclusion:

QR codes are making OOH ads smarter, more interactive, and more effective. They help brands connect with people instantly, gather valuable data, and drive real results. If you haven’t tried QR codes in your OOH ads yet, now is the perfect time!

Are you curious about how to design the best QR code ad or what makes people want to scan? Want to connect with an outdoor advertising agency to understand the best usage of QR codes for outdoor ads? Connect with Vigyapan Mart outdoor advertising experts today!