Augmented reality (AR) packaging has emerged as a powerful marketing tool for small niche businesses that want to break free from the perception of their products as mere static items on store shelves. The Stories AR platform team has compelled an article on the benefits of the QR AR packaging for small business.
The AR technology offers brands a unique opportunity to create engaging, interactive experiences that can significantly enhance consumer engagement and drive sales. Research indicates that these phone-based visual experiences can be particularly effective for smaller brands targeting specific audiences.
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to integrate AR into packaging is through the addition of a QR code accompanied by an explanatory prompt. While the technology itself is advancing, the materials used in packaging and the brand’s intentions play crucial roles in shaping the types of interactions AR can facilitate.
QR AR Packaging Examples
AR technology has been around since the early 2000s, existing in a unique space between real life and virtual reality. Rose describes AR as existing on an «immersion spectrum.» Unlike virtual reality, which immerses users in entirely artificial environments, AR enhances real-world experiences by overlaying digital information onto them. This blend of the real and the artificial is vital for campaigns like that of Jones Soda Co., a Seattle-based craft soda maker known for its distinctive packaging.
Jones Soda has built its brand identity around customer-submitted photos featured on the front of each glass bottle. The company’s Reel Labels program exemplifies how AR can transform packaging. When consumers scan a QR code on the bottle with their smartphones, they can view a short video—also submitted by a customer—superimposed on the static image. This interactive element not only captivates consumers but also fosters a sense of community among customers who contribute their photos and videos.
Historically, accessing AR experiences required consumers to download separate apps, which could deter engagement. However, advancements in technology have made this process much more user-friendly. Today, QR code scanners are integrated into smartphone cameras, and the pandemic in 2020 has accelerated consumer familiarity with scanning codes. Consumers now expect that scanning a code will provide them with additional information about a product.
Furthermore, software solutions for displaying AR content have evolved to eliminate the need for standalone apps. Instead, many AR experiences can now be accessed directly through mobile web browsers. Any interaction that avoids requiring consumers to download another app is likely to attract more users. This seamless access is crucial for small brands looking to maximize engagement without overwhelming potential customers with technical barriers.
As AR technology becomes more accessible and user-friendly, small niche businesses can leverage it to enhance in-store shopping experiences. The type of content presented through QR AR packaging can vary based on a brand’s objectives. For example, if a company aims to educate consumers about its products, it could provide insights into ingredient sourcing or share the brand’s story through engaging visuals. This approach not only enriches the shopping experience but also helps differentiate smaller brands from larger competitors.
In conclusion, AR packaging presents a transformative opportunity for small niche businesses to elevate their marketing strategies. By incorporating interactive elements into their packaging, these brands can foster deeper connections with consumers and create memorable experiences that resonate beyond traditional advertising methods. By the way you can create your first AR packaging template for free on the Stories AR platform.
