53 QR Code Adoption Rate Stats in 2025 You Need to Know

The constant increase in the QR code adoption rate shows how these two-dimensional barcodes have skyrocketed over the years, becoming everyday staples in the digitized era.
In 2025, 99.5 million smartphone users in the United States are foreseen to scan QR codes. Meanwhile, the value of QR payments is anticipated to grow by $2.7 trillion in the same year.
This rise in popularity didn’t happen overnight; it resulted from tech evolution and changing consumer habits, such as the desire to make fast and contactless transactions and avoid typing long URLs.
And at the heart of these are the free and dynamic QR code generators, the unsung heroes turning information into scannable codes, one pixelated square at a time.
Backed by studies and research, we present data and insights on the state of QR code adoption across different industries worldwide.
Table of Contents
- Why is everyone using QR codes?
- Part I. Global QR code usage statistics
- Part II. QR code adoption across regions
- Part III. QR code adoption rate across industries
- Part IV. Consumer behavior and adoption
- Part V. QR code usage by age groups
- What is the response rate for QR codes?
- Why adopt QR code use?
- Challenges to QR code adoption
- The future of QR code adoption
- Create personalized QR codes using the best QR code generator
- Where QR codes lead, innovation follows
- FAQ
Why is everyone using QR codes?

QR or Quick Response codes first became popular in Asia, especially in Japan and China, and now they are used worldwide.
Their usage surged during the COVID-19 pandemic as companies pursued contactless options, with applications including menus, payment systems, and omnichannel marketing.
Recent statistics from Statista show that mobile QR code usage is expected to grow by 30% annually, with billions of scans predicted worldwide. Industries like retail, healthcare, and marketing are leading this growth.
About 45% of brands integrate QR codes in marketing campaigns alone to bridge offline and online engagement.
This surge highlights a universal acceptance fueled by smartphone penetration, convenience, and improved consumer trust in QR technology. It’s clear QR codes are no passing trend—they’ve cemented their role in how we access information and services.
Fun fact: QR codes saved more menus than the lamination industry ever could.
Part I. Global QR code usage statistics
The rise in QR code usage is evident across multiple sectors and user groups. Here's an updated overview:
1. QR scans skyrocketed to 41.77 million

According to QR TIGER QR code statistics report for 2025, global scans quadrupled last year, hitting an impressive 41.77 million. Dynamic QR codes alone raked in nearly 7.2 million scans.
Smartphones are the driving force behind this. With 4.48 billion global users last year (set to climb to 6.18 billion by 2029), mobile devices aren’t just a pocket-sized tech marvel; they’re handy QR-scanning machines.
2. Global QR code scans surge by 57%
ProfileTree says QR code usage worldwide has exploded, with scans jumping 57% in 2022–2023. By 2025, that number is expected to climb another 22%.
Fun fact: QR codes are generated at a rate of eight per minute globally.
3. The global QR code market is set to grow at a 16.9% clip
The QR code payment market isn’t just buzzing; it’s booming. It was valued at $9.98 billion in 2022. It’s projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.9% through 2030, says Grandview Research.
4. QR code payments are set to hit $51 billion by 2032
By 2032, the global QR code payment market is set to hit $51.58 billion, up from $11.8 billion in 2023. That’s a growth rate of over 15% CAGR.
Clearly, QR code payments are on a winning streak, and loyalty programs with discounts are the secret sauce driving this trend.
Think about it: businesses using QR code payments can dish out instant rewards like points, discounts, or cashback right when customers pay. It's like turning your transaction into a mini celebration.
With perks like these, who wouldn’t want to keep using QR code payments? After all, getting rewarded for spending money is the kind of math we all like.
5. Digital payments to hit $36.75 trillion by 2029

Statista predicts the digital payments market will grow at an annual rate of 15.71% from 2024 to 2029. By 2029, the total transaction value will be jaw-dropping at $36.75 trillion.
The biggest player in this arena is mobile POS payments, which are expected to handle $10.85 trillion in transactions in 2024 alone. Clearly, our phones are working overtime, taking selfies, and taking care of our shopping sprees.
6. Global QR payments are expected to reach $3 trillion
Global spending through QR code payments is projected to hit an impressive $3 trillion by 2025, up from $2.4 trillion in 2022.
This 25% growth comes from efforts to improve financial inclusion in developing regions and provide more convenient payment options in developed areas.
Part II. QR code adoption across regions
As QR codes continue to gain momentum, their adoption varies across different regions, each with unique trends and growth patterns.
United States
7. 89 million Americans are scanning QR codes

QR codes are catching on stateside. In 2022, 89 million Americans scanned away, a 26% jump from 2020.
Statista projects the number to reach 100 million by 2025. The region's leadership in QR code payments is notable, too, with North America holding a 39% market share in 2022.
8. US leads global QR code creation
The US has been leading the QR code market, holding the largest share in 2023. The nation saw a remarkable 248% increase in QR code creation, producing over 200,000 more codes than in 2021.
9. US QR code production set to exceed 300,000
As of mid-2023, the US has already reached 86% of that figure. Estimates project that QR code creation will soar past 300,000 by the end of 2025.
10. US QR code market poised for 5.4% annual growth
Future Market Insights reports that the US market was valued at $233 million in 2023, and it’s projected to grow to $568.8 million by 2033, with an annual growth rate of 5.4%.
11. 45% of US shoppers used marketing QR codes

According to a 2021 survey by Statista, 45% of US shoppers admitted to scanning a marketing-related QR code three months before the survey. Respondents aged 18 to 29 accounted for the largest share.
12. QR code usage is widely accepted among US adults
According to a Scantrust survey, QR codes are mostly used by people between 18 and 46 in the US, with the biggest chunk of users falling in the 33-46 age range.
So, it’s safe to say QR codes are pretty popular, even among those who still remember a time before smartphones ruled the world.
Conversely, the biggest group of people not using QR codes is in the 62-75 age range, making up nearly 40% of non-users. And surprisingly, the second-largest group of holdouts is those in the 33-46 bracket.
13. 95% of consumers are familiar with scanning QR codes
A recent report by Origin reveals that 95% of consumers know how to scan a QR code. Most people in the US, especially those aged 18–44, are convinced QR codes are here to stay.
14. 75% of US adults open to future QR code use

According to fresh data from The Drum, 75% of US adults favor using QR codes in the future.
64% of consumers over 45 are still a little skeptical, probably wondering if QR codes will remain the "it" thing for years to come.
Europe
15. Over 86% of UK and European smartphone users have scanned QR codes
Europe is the second-largest QR code market, with Germany, France, and the UK leading the way.
In the UK and Europe, 86.66% of smartphone users have scanned a QR Code at least once in their lifetime, and 36.40 % scan at least one QR Code a week.
16. 91% of UK smartphone users have scanned QR codes at least once
According to the Ivante survey, 91% of UK smartphone users have scanned a QR code, and 42% of French consumers report making QR-based transactions. However, 36% of German users encountered suspicious links.
17. Germany’s QR code market is set to double by 2033
Germany's QR code market was worth $51.4 million in 2023 and is expected to grow to $124 million by 2033, maintaining a 5.5% annual growth rate.
18. France’s QR code market is poised for 8.3% growth

France isn’t just about croissants and couture; its QR code market is poised for an 8.3% growth rate, expanding from $75.8 million to $138.3 million by 2033. Très bien, France!
19. European QR payments are on track to hit $2.3 billion
Europe’s QR payment market reached $1.6 billion in 2021 and is projected to hit $2.3 billion by 2025. It looks like many baguettes and bratwursts are being paid for with a quick scan.
Asia
20. China’s QR code market is valued at $437 million
In China, the payment method surged from 35.35% to 83% between September 2021 and April 2022.
China is practically synonymous with QR codes. In 2023, its market hit $437.2 million, and it is projected to grow at a 12.1% annual rate to $645.2 million by 2033.
21. China dominates QR payments

Did you know that in 2022, China had about 10 billion smartphone devices used for QR code payments? That’s more phones scanning codes than people in most countries.
China’s love for the “scan and pay” method is unmatched. Over 90% of their mobile payment market is dedicated to QR codes. Clearly, they’ve taken the “cashless society” concept and sprinted with it.
Meanwhile, India hopped on the QR code bandwagon during its demonetization drive, swapping cash for scans as part of its push towards a cashless economy.
To put things in perspective, China's average quarterly QR code transaction value is a staggering RMB 40.6 trillion.
22. Alipay and WeChat Pay command 90% of China’s mobile transactions
According to Statista, Alipay and WeChat Pay account for over 90% of mobile transactions in China. Users interact with QR codes 10–15 times daily. Over 800 million people use these two e-wallets to make payments and conduct other daily transactions.
23. 81% of Chinese consumers embrace QR codes
A 2022 YouGov survey shows that they’re really picking up steam, with 81% of consumers in China, 78% in Hong Kong, 77% in India, and 74% in Singapore using them more than ever before.
24. Japan’s QR code payments are projected to grow to $277 million by 2033

Japan is catching up quickly, with QR code payments surpassing electronic money to become the second most popular cashless payment method.
According to Future Market Insights, the market is expected to grow from $173.1 million in 2023 to $277.1 million by 2033, registering a 10.3% annual growth rate.
25. Japan recorded 9.36 billion QR transactions
Japan saw 9.36 billion QR code transactions in 2023. According to Statista, monthly active users (MAU) of QR code payments skyrocketed from 23.1 million in 2020 to 82.7 million in September 2024.
26. India’s digital payments industry sees 42% growth
India’s digital payments industry grew by an impressive 42% year-on-year in 2023–2024. According to PwC, this momentum isn’t slowing down anytime soon. By 2029, annual transactions are set to triple, hitting a staggering 481 billion.
Boston Consulting Group and PhonePe study projects that India’s digital payments could soar to $10 trillion by 2026. That’s a remarkable leap for a country leading the way in cashless innovation.
27. 9 million Indian merchants have adopted QR codes for payments

India is leading the charge in QR code adoption rate, and it’s no surprise why. With the boom in digital payments and platforms like UPI transforming transactions, QR codes have become a way of life.
According to Lyra, over 9 million merchants nationwide now accept QR payments, which means a lot of scans and makes life easier for everyone.
28. 216 million BHIM UPI payments in a year
QR codes and BHIM UPI are having their moment, and it’s quite the glow-up. According to a September 2022 Statista survey, QR code acceptance hit 216 million users, a 79.5% jump in just a year.
Looking closer at QR code usage by country, it’s clear that regions like the United States and China are leading the way. With their tech-driven environments and digital payment systems, it’s no surprise that QR codes are becoming a go-to tool.
Part III. QR code adoption rate across industries
Now, let’s explore how QR codes are being adopted across various industries:
Marketing and retail

29. Marketing QR codes saw a 323% growth
According to the QR TIGER QR code trend statistics report, marketing and advertising have been on a QR code binge, with usage soaring by 323% between 2021 and 2023. It seems marketers have cracked the code (pun intended).
And if that wasn’t impressive enough, consumers worldwide redeemed over 5.3 billion QR code coupons worldwide in 2022.
30. 99% of ad pros say QR codes are key for reaching Gen Z
A 2022 Statista survey revealed that 99% of advertising professionals are all in on QR codes when it comes to reaching Gen Z; basically, they think it's a must.
Meanwhile, just 1% saw the potential for QR codes in DOOH campaigns, so maybe they're not quite as convinced.
31. US retailers and brands support QR code transition over UPCs
In a GS1 US study, 82% of retailers and 92% of brand owners supported replacing traditional UPCs with GS1 QR codes by 2025. Looks like 1D barcodes are getting their retirement party soon.
Restaurants

32. 58% of consumers pay with QR codes
The FoodBytes report reveals that 58% of consumers pay with QR codes when dining out or grocery shopping, a modern way to settle the tab. And it gets better: 49% have even used QR codes to check out restaurant menus.
33. Restaurants go digital with QR codes
75% of restaurants worldwide use QR codes to access digital menus easily. According to Coolest Gadgets, QR codes have boosted customer engagement by 40%.
Don’t get left behind; learn how to create digital menu QR codes today and keep your customers returning for more!
34. 78% of diners favor QR codes
It turns out that most people still love the convenience of QR codes when ordering and paying at restaurants. According to Restaurant Technology News and Eater, a solid 78% of customers are all for it.
35. Technology in ordering increases customer spending by 20%
According to a Deloitte survey, letting customers use technology to place their orders can be a real win for restaurants. Not only will they come back 6% more often, but they’ll also spend 20% more.
But it's not just about convenience. Customers want to feel known. In fact, 70% of people in the survey said they’d love apps that give them personalized offers, making them feel like the restaurant has their number.
Product packaging

36. 57% of consumers scan QR codes on food packaging
According to ProfileTree, almost 57% of consumers worldwide have used QR codes on food packaging to learn more about the product. It's like flipping the box over with a little tech twist.
On the flip side, 34% of shoppers use QR codes to check out brand information or join contests.
37. 92% of CPG brands use QR codes on packaging
According to Packaging Strategies, 92% of brands that produce consumer packaged goods (CPG) are adopting QR codes for their packaging.
20% of them use those QR codes to give consumers the inside scoop on their product sustainability efforts. It's like the packaging is saying not just, "Hey, check me out," but also, "Hey, let me tell you how we're helping the planet.”
38. Smart packaging market to grow 6.8% CAGR
The global smart packaging market was valued at $36.04 billion in 2022. It's expected to double by 2032, reaching nearly $68.99 billion at a growth rate of 6.8% annually.
Pro tip: Add QR codes on product packaging to create an interactive experience—whether you're sharing recipes, telling your sustainability story, or offering exclusive deals, it’s a smart way to connect with your customers.
Healthcare

39. 72% of healthcare institutions have adopted QR codes
Did you know that 72% of healthcare institutions already use or plan to use QR codes?
According to HIMSS (Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society), these nifty little codes are making life easier for both patients and healthcare providers by streamlining the experience and boosting efficiency.
40. QR codes on prescription labels help reduce medication errors
A survey by the Journal of Pharmacy Practice found that using QR codes instead of standard labels can improve accuracy by 78%.
But here's the kicker: age seems to play a role too. In fact, the age gap between younger and older participants accounts for about 33% of the differences in performance.
So, while QR codes might clarify things, they don’t level the playing field regarding age.
41. 72% of patients prefer QR codes for Patient Information Leaflets (PILs)
According to research published in the Journal of Orthodontics, 72% of participants favored electronic leaflets accessed through QR codes over traditional paper versions.
Only 2% preferred paper leaflets, while the remaining respondents remained neutral.
Furthermore, 80% of people found inbuilt smartphone QR code readers convenient, with just 4% encountering any issues.
42. 94% said QR codes are easy and preferred for accessing healthcare info
So, here's an interesting tidbit from the Journal of Orthodontics: out of 109 people (with an average age of 26.5), 71% had already tried QR codes, and 94% said they were a breeze to use.
Pro tip: Use QR codes in healthcare to simplify patient access to information, reduce errors, and streamline processes—see how they can make a difference.
Inventory

43. QR codes boost inventory efficiency by 30%
Did you know QR codes can make your inventory management 30% more efficient? According to Debutify, they’re like a personal assistant for tracking products, minus the coffee breaks.
QR codes reduce human error, so you won’t have to worry about mistaking product information, quantities, or where things are hiding in your warehouse.
44. Reduce inventory errors by 30% with QR code systems
A recent study by Cyzerg found that businesses using barcode or QR code systems can cut inventory errors by up to 30%. This means fewer "oops, we’re out of stock" moments and less of the dreaded overstock piling up.
QR code usage statistics reveal an undeniable trend: these scannable squares shape how we connect, shop, and share information.
With millions of scans and a booming market, it’s clear QR codes aren’t just a tool—they’re the future of engagement.
Part IV. Consumer behavior and adoption

To truly grasp the future landscape, it's essential to explore how consumer behavior is shifting and adopting new trends.
45. 84% of smartphone users have engaged in scanning a QR code
QR codes are everywhere: menus, billboards, product packaging, and even resumes.
According to Coolest Gadgets, 84% of smartphone users have scanned a QR code at least once. 72% do it monthly, and a committed 32% are scanning weekly.
46. 79% prefer products with scannable codes
Based on a 2024 GS1 US consumer survey, 79% of shoppers admitted they’re more likely to buy a product with a scannable barcode or QR code that gives them the necessary information. No one wants to play Sherlock Holmes in the middle of the cereal aisle.
To keep up with this trend, brands worldwide, with a little nudge from GS1, are swapping out old-school UPCs for sleek new 2D barcodes (QR codes) on product packaging.
Retailers are also gearing up to make these scannable wonders checkout-ready by 2027, a plan named Sunrise 2027.
47. 80% prefer brands showing sustainability
According to a 2023 survey by Specright, most people have trust issues with product sustainability. Around 80% of respondents said they’re more into brands that are upfront about how eco-friendly their products are.
71% admitted they’d trust those claims more if they saw them printed on the packaging. Because, apparently, if it’s not on the box, it didn’t happen.
48. Younger consumers are driving QR code engagement in marketing campaigns
A survey from The Drum reveals that 45% of US consumers scan QR codes tied to marketing or advertising campaigns. Looks like QR codes are slowly becoming the new "must-click" in the digital age.
The younger crowd leads the charge, with 54% of consumers aged 18-29 admitting they've clicked on a marketing QR code. The 30-44 age group isn’t far behind at 48%.
However, as we move into the 45-64 age range, interest drops to 44%, and the 65+ crowd is scanning at a more leisurely 31%.
Guess it’s safe to say QR codes are still mostly a millennial and Gen Z thing—at least for now.
49. 57% of QR code users are women
A 2021 survey revealed that 57% of QR code users were women, with the remaining 43% being men.
Women are leading the charge regarding QR code use. And that's no surprise—women influence 70% to 80% of purchasing decisions.
When it comes to adopting QR code technology, considering this gender gap could help brands make stronger connections with their audience. The ladies have spoken, and it’s worth paying attention to.
Part V. QR code usage by age groups

According to 2023 statistics, 44.6% of internet users aged between 16–64 scan at least one QR code monthly.
QR code usage varies significantly across different age groups, with younger generations leading the adoption. Here's a breakdown of QR code engagement by age:
50. Ages 18-34
57% of individuals in this age bracket frequently use QR codes, indicating a strong inclination towards this technology.
51. Ages 33-46
This group represents the largest proportion of QR code users, accounting for 41% of users, followed by the 18 to 32 age group at 30%.
52. Ages 45-60
Comfort levels with QR code usage decline in this demographic, with only 6% expressing willingness to use the technology in certain settings.
53. Ages 62-75
Nearly 40% of non-QR code users fall into this age range, highlighting a significant gap in adoption among older adults.
These statistics underscore a clear trend: younger individuals are more comfortable and familiar with QR codes. At the same time, older age groups exhibit lower QR code adoption rates.
Examining QR code usage by age provides insights into how different demographics interact with QR codes. It shows a surprising uptake even among older generations adapting to contactless solutions.
What is the response rate for QR codes?
The response rate for QR codes can vary widely depending on factors like design, placement, content, and audience.
However, some sources suggest that QR codes can achieve response rates of around 6.4%; others report higher engagement, with QR code-based surveys boasting an average response rate of 30%.
In contrast, email marketing initiatives typically experience click-through rates that vary from around 1% to 5%, influenced by the sector and the quality of the campaign.
Note: These numbers represent averages and may vary due to elements like content quality, relevance to the intended audience, and the success of the call-to-action.
Why adopt QR code use?

As QR codes continue to evolve, they offer simple, efficient, and versatile solutions for businesses and individuals alike. Here's why adopting QR codes can benefit you:
Ease of use and accessibility
QR codes eliminate the need to type long URLs, download apps, or manually enter details. Scanning a code takes mere seconds and is accessible to anyone with a smartphone camera—no additional tools are required.
For example, a restaurant customer can scan a menu QR code to view dishes, place an order, and pay the bill with just a few taps.
Contactless solutions
The demand for contactless interactions during the pandemic pushed QR codes to the forefront. From contactless payments to ticketing systems and virtual business cards, QR codes minimized physical touchpoints and ensured safer transactions.
Businesses quickly adapted, and customers grew accustomed to scanning codes, creating a habit that continues post-pandemic.
Marketing and engagement opportunities
QR codes have proven effective in bridging offline and online marketing strategies. Companies use QR codes on flyers, posters, billboards, and product packaging to direct customers to websites, videos, or social media pages.
Dynamic QR codes, which allow real-time editing and tracking, have further amplified marketing opportunities. Businesses can measure scan rates, update linked content, and track customer engagement seamlessly.
Innovative QR code ads bridge the gap between offline and online marketing, offering an interactive way to direct customers to digital platforms or exclusive offers.
Why wait? Start creating your own QR code for marketing today and transform how you connect with your audience.
Advancements in technology
Smartphones now have built-in QR code scanners, making scanning easier for users without third-party apps. Additionally, improved internet speeds and wider smartphone penetration have driven higher QR code adoption rates across various age groups and demographics.
Integration in payments
QR codes are revolutionizing the payment industry, especially in regions where digital wallets are preferred over traditional banking. Mobile payment apps like PayPal, Venmo, and Google Pay allow users to make secure transactions by scanning QR codes.
This has transformed small businesses and street vendors, who can now offer cashless payment options without expensive hardware.
Pro tip: Use dynamic QR codes to track scans and update content anytime, maximizing the uses of QR codes for marketing, payments, or sharing information.
Challenges to QR code adoption
While QR codes have gained widespread adoption, a few challenges remain:
- Security concerns: Malicious actors can misuse QR codes to direct users to fraudulent websites or malware. Businesses must ensure they use trusted QR code makers to minimize risks.
- Consumer awareness: Some users still need to familiarize themselves with QR code functionality, particularly in areas with limited internet access.
- Overuse: Bombarding customers with QR codes can lead to fatigue, reducing engagement rates.
Businesses should prioritize security and deliver meaningful content through QR codes to address these issues.
The future of QR code adoption
The future looks bright for QR codes as their applications continue to grow. Some emerging trends include:
- Augmented Reality (AR) integration: QR codes will unlock AR experiences like 3D product displays or virtual tours.
- Enhanced security features: Encrypted QR codes will improve data security, making them ideal for sensitive transactions.
- Sustainability efforts: QR codes are replacing printed materials and aligning with eco-friendly business practices.
As businesses find new ways into their strategies, QR code adoption rates are expected to rise even further.
Create personalized QR codes using the best QR code generator
Here’s how you can start making QR codes:
- Visit the best free QR code generator platform.
- Choose your preferred QR code type and enter the required information.
- Decide between Static or Dynamic QR code, then click Generate QR code.
- Personalize it by including a logo, frame, and a clear call to action.
- Test the QR code to ensure it works, then Download it.
Where QR codes lead, innovation follows
The QR code adoption rate is more than just a statistic; it's proof that even tiny squares with funky patterns can become indispensable in our lives.
From simplifying payments to making marketing more interactive, QR codes have proven they’re more than just glorified barcodes; they’re the multitasking champions we didn’t know we needed.
As businesses continue to innovate with these scannable wonders, one thing is clear: QR codes stick around longer than your neighbor’s holiday decorations.
If you're ready to hop on the QR train and create your own, the best QR code generator is just a click away.
FAQ
What percentage of people use QR codes?
Around 45% of global smartphone users have scanned a QR code in the past year, with higher adoption in countries like the United States and China.
Are QR codes still relevant in 2024?
Yes, QR codes will remain essential in 2024 and beyond for marketing, payments, events, and more. Dynamic codes, in particular, add flexibility, ensuring they remain practical and useful.
Do QR codes have a future?
Yes, QR codes have a bright future. They are useful for marketing, payments, events, and contactless solutions. As technology improves, QR codes become more connected to mobile devices, making them even more practical and important.