Once dismissed as a passing trend, QR codes have made a strong comeback, fueled by the rise of mobile-first interactions, contactless transactions, and digital engagement strategies.
Today, QR codes remain a powerful tool in flyer design, but their effectiveness depends on how they’re used.
According to statistics, the QR code market is expected to reach $2.1 billion by 2027.
With people increasingly relying on smartphones for everything from shopping to event registration, integrating QR codes into flyer designs can bridge the gap between print and digital marketing.
But are they still as impactful as they once were? And how can they be used effectively?
Let’s explore the relevance of QR codes in flyer design today and the best ways to incorporate them for maximum engagement.
Are QR Codes Still Relevant in 2025?
Yes, QR codes are still relevant—but only when used correctly.
According to a study, QR code usage in the marketing and advertising sectors grew by 323% in 2023.
While some brands still make the mistake of placing QR codes on flyers without a clear purpose, the most successful campaigns leverage them to enhance user experience, drive engagement, and provide instant access to valuable content.
The main reasons for the rise of the use of QR codes are:
- Built-in smartphone support: Nearly every smartphone now has native QR code scanning through the camera, making them easier to use than ever.
- Consumer familiarity: COVID-19 normalized QR codes for menus, payments, and event check-ins, increasing user adoption.
- Fast access to digital content: QR codes eliminate the need for typing long URLs, streamlining the process of connecting users to websites, videos, or downloads.
With these benefits in mind, QR codes continue to play an important role in flyer design and print marketing, provided they serve a clear function and are seamlessly integrated into the overall design.
Best Ways to Use QR Codes in Flyers
QR codes can be used for various marketing goals, from increasing sales to enhancing user engagement. Here are some of the most effective ways to use them in flyer design:
1. Directing Customers to a Website or Landing Page
One of the most common uses of QR codes in flyer design is to drive traffic to a website, promotional page, or online store.
Instead of asking people to manually type a URL, a QR code lets them instantly access the page by simply scanning it with their phone.
2. Event Registration and Ticketing
For flyers promoting concerts, conferences, or community events, QR codes provide an easy way for attendees to register, purchase tickets, or RSVP online.
This simplifies the event planning process and increases attendance rates by removing friction.
3. Social Media Engagement
Brands and businesses can use QR codes on flyers to connect audiences directly to their social media profiles, encouraging follows, likes, and shares. Linking to an Instagram account, LinkedIn profile, or TikTok page allows for instant brand interaction.
4. Downloading Apps or Digital Resources
If your flyer promotes a mobile app, eBook, or digital resource, a QR code can provide direct access to a download page.
This is especially useful for businesses launching new apps or offering gated content like whitepapers and guides.
5. Instant Purchases and Discounts
Retail brands can add QR codes to flyers that link to exclusive discounts or online checkout pages. A user scanning the code can instantly apply a promo code or make a purchase, reducing the steps required to convert interest into sales.
6. Video or Interactive Content
For businesses looking to engage audiences beyond static visuals, QR codes can link to videos, virtual tours, or interactive product demos.
A well-placed QR code on a flyer can bring content to life, making marketing materials more engaging.
Tips for Using QR Codes in Flyer Design
A QR code is only as effective as its placement, purpose, and usability. To ensure success, follow these best practices when integrating QR codes into flyer designs.
1. Make Sure the QR Code Has a Clear Purpose
Every QR code should offer value to the audience. Whether it’s a discount, an event sign-up, or a product demo, ensure that scanning the code leads to something useful and relevant.
2. Keep the Code Visible and Easy to Scan
QR codes should be large enough to be scanned easily—at least 1×1 inch (2.5 cm) in size. Avoid placing them in corners, folds, or cluttered areas where they might be overlooked or difficult to scan.
3. Add a Call-to-Action (CTA)
A QR code without context can confuse users. Always include a CTA that tells people what they’ll get by scanning—for example, “Scan to Get 20% Off” or “Scan to Watch the Video”.
4. Optimize for Mobile Experience
Since QR codes direct users to online content, the destination must be mobile-friendly. A website that isn’t optimized for smartphones will frustrate users and reduce engagement.
5. Test Before Printing
Before finalizing your flyer design, test the QR code to ensure it works properly. Scan it with different devices and lighting conditions to confirm its reliability.
6. Use Branded or Custom QR Codes
Plain black-and-white QR codes can look out of place. Many platforms allow you to customize QR codes with colors, logos, or frames to better match your flyer’s design and branding.
7. Track QR Code Performance
If you’re using QR codes in flyer campaigns, consider using a trackable QR code generator (like Bitly or Google Analytics) to monitor scans, engagement rates, and conversions. This helps evaluate effectiveness and optimize future marketing strategies.
Are QR Codes Worth Using in 2025?
While QR codes remain a powerful tool for bridging print and digital marketing, they should be used strategically. Simply adding a QR code to a flyer without a clear purpose won’t drive engagement.
However, when used correctly, QR codes can:
- Increase conversion rates by simplifying customer actions.
- Enhance the user experience by providing immediate access to valuable content.
- Make flyers more interactive and engaging beyond static print.
In 2025, as more businesses focus on seamless omnichannel marketing, QR codes continue to be a relevant and effective tool. They allow flyers to serve as more than just informational pieces—they become interactive gateways to digital experiences.