Geneva merchants enlist smartphone technology
For the first time, Sherie McGowan is going to use QR codes to promote her gifts and home furnishings in Cocoon, her downtown Geneva store.
She’s not the only one. Cocoon, Peaceful Parlour, Jane Pabon Boutique and Stockholm’s are among 60 stores and restaurants in Geneva using the new technology to help market their products during Geneva’s Swedish Days June 21-26.
The codes, printed on posters displayed in the stores’ front windows, will allow visitors with smartphones to get immediate access to featured specials exclusively during the fest.
“I just love it because so many people now have smartphones,” McGowan said.
The QR code, which means quick response, offers two-dimensional images printed on a flat surface, like a poster or newspaper ad, which can be read by smartphones. After you download a free app, the smartphone can scan the QR code and take you to the Swedish Days 2011 Hot Deal page with all the local store deals.
One of the hardest things for many businesses is trying to integrate themselves into the festival in a fun and creative way, said Laura Rush, a spokeswoman for the Geneva Chamber of Commerce.
“We always tell them we will bring the 200,000 to town, but they have to get them in their door,” Rush said.
McGowan said those using the QR Codes will find her store featuring “Swedish Madness” on the first day with 20 percent off items. Another day will offer “buy one smelly thing and get the second smelly thing half off.”
After Swedish Days ends, you likely won’t see the end of QR codes in Geneva.
“Once the festival is over, we’d hope to have regular QR codes in ads and posters later,” she said.
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