Do you Barcode?

Hello and welcome to my blog! The goal of this blog is to show how different forms of technology can reach consumers and enhance their everyday lives. As a long-time Chicago native, most of my examples will come from personal experiences using these different technologies around the city.

From a business standpoint, this blog will also highlight different interactive marketing features that benefit organizations.  By showing this dichotomy of perspectives, from both the supplier as well as the consumer, I’ll map out my version of Chicago’s hottest tech trends!

Today's topic: the new digital use of a barcode

Have you seen printed barcodes popping up around your neighborhood? A number of companies are using barcode-to-mobile/tablet technology to create digital rewards programs. Think of it similarly to the coupons you receive after putting in your grocery store membership card, which tracks and collects valuable purchase data that can be analyzed and used for forecasting purposes.

For me…barcodes are all about the perks! Here are two companies using this technology that are (in my opinion) getting it right:

 

Belly

  


Why I like it as a consumer 
As a consumer, I like that Belly rewards me for the places I frequently visit. Every time I check out at a Belly-enabled location, I build loyalty points. These points can be turned in for special offers or free-bees. Belly points at a 7-11 might offer a free banana or slushy, or at a local bar might be a free appetizer. My local bagel shop, Chicago Bagel Authority, makes t-shirts and other products with the bagel company’s name. Belly points at Chicago Bagel Authority can get you free branded products like mugs or t-shirts.

What Belly gets out of it 
Belly can be an effective analytical tool for businesses if used correctly. As a retail location, Belly allows you to connect with your consumers through a direct digital channel. Belly automatically collects data on in-store purchasers such as products purchased, frequency of visits, and so no. By requiring users to sign up with an email address, email marketing can be used to promote special offers, which then can drive sales.

Want to learn more about which local spots use Belly? Find out here.

 CVS Extra Care 

Why I like it as a consumer

The CVS extra care program gives consumers an immediate reward: coupons and special offers after every checkout! Extra Bucks are like gift certificates, which can be earned after a specific number of purchases. It’s an easy way to be rewarded for shopping at CVS (which I do a lot!).  

What CVS gets out of it

The digital marketing benefits here are similar to that of Belly. Tracking consumer purchases and analyzing those purchasing decisions. Understanding your audience is a critical part of an organization’s marketing plan.

Want to learn more about the CVS extra care program? Click here.