Nintendo is introducing the innovative QR-Code Shopping Assistant in its retail stores, becoming the first brand to implement this Icecat technology. This cutting-edge tool is designed to improve in-store customer experience by providing immediate access to detailed product information via a simple smartphone scan. This helps shoppers make informed purchasing decisions seamlessly and instantly. Additionally, it empowers customers with the knowledge they need without relying solely on in-store staff.
The primary purpose of the QR-code assistant is to tackle common challenges. For example insufficient staff availability and limited product knowledge in busy retail environments. When the QR code is scanned it opens a digital product story that includes in-depth specifications, comparison tools, user reviews, instructional videos, and more. With this tool, customers can instantly compare products, understand features, and make choices that align with their preferences. Furthermore, the content behind each QR code is fully customizable, allowing brands like Nintendo to tailor product information to their specific marketing goals and audience needs. The possibilities of how to use the QR Tool are practically endless.
In addition to addressing the lack of staff challenge, the QR-code assistant also helps tackle broader retail issues:
As more consumers turn to online shopping, in-store engagement can diminish, leading to missed opportunities for brands to connect with customers and showcase product value. Physical stores often lack the interactive and rich content that online platforms offer. This makes it it harder for customers to feel engaged.
Retail stores can face challenges in keeping product information up to date, especially for fast-evolving categories like consumer electronics. Printed brochures or in-store displays might not reflect the latest updates, promotions, or product specs, leading to confusion or missed opportunities for customers.
In busy retail environments, it can be difficult for staff to spend enough time with each customer to explain upsell options, accessories, or complementary products. This can lead to missed sales opportunities, particularly for tech-heavy products that often have add-ons or enhanced versions.
The introduction of the QR-Code Shopping Assistant comes at a crucial time in the lifespan of the popular Nintendo Switch console. According to a Nintendo NBX spokesperson:
“In the 8th year of Nintendo Switch’s console life-span, Nintendo NBX was looking for a new way to provide in-store explanations to a ‘laggards’ market that’s seeking information about the different models of Nintendo Switch hardware consoles in store. Since store staff do not always have time to provide this information, Nintendo NBX came up with the idea of doing this in-store via a QR code which, after scanning this code, displays an explanation diagram regarding the various Nintendo Switch hardware models. In ‘Icecat,’ Nintendo has found the partner who can facilitate this.”
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Chief Business Development Officer - Initiator of the Icecat toys data model together with the toy industry
