How Ikea Uses QR Codes to Improve the In-Store Customer Experience

IKEA stores globally attracted 899 million visitors in FY24, a nearly 4.5% increase from the previous year. Impressive indeed! But what’s even more notable is how the world’s largest furniture retailer manages that volume while keeping the shopping experience seamless.

IKEA’s edge comes from clever use of QR codes. Placed throughout the store, these codes turn a potentially overwhelming visit into a guided, self-serve journey. One scan gives shoppers product details, design inspiration, assembly help, and even AR previews to see how items fit in their homes.

For furniture retailers, the lesson is clear and easy to replicate. With the right QR touchpoints, you can simplify exploration, speed up decisions, and boost customer confidence. 

This blog breaks down IKEA’s most effective use cases and how they can also level up both your operations and your shoppers’ experience.

What does IKEA use QR codes for?

‘Scan & Go’ shopping experiences

Many IKEA stores now let shoppers bypass queues entirely. A QR code at the entrance activates the IKEA app’s scanner, allowing customers to scan product QR codes as they move through the aisles and drop items into their cart or bag. Each scan populates a digital purchase list. When done, the app generates a single checkout QR code that customers present at the counter for quick payment. For retailers, this is a blueprint for cutting wait times, reducing cart-handling friction, and speeding up on busy days.

Adding items directly from product tags

IKEA also prints QR codes on product tags so shoppers can add items to a digital cart, order for delivery, or reserve for pickup. This is especially helpful for bulky furniture. Other furniture businesses can adopt the same approach to support customers who want to buy big pieces without physically lugging them across the store.

Instant product info and assembly guidance

QR codes on packaging and manuals link directly to digital product pages with assembly videos, care instructions, material details, measurements, color options, and recycling info. This helps shoppers compare options, make faster decisions, and get seamless post-purchase support. It also reduces the load on sales staff.

IKEA goes a step further by connecting some QR codes to alternative combinations, design tips, 3D demos, and AR previews. Other retailers can replicate this, too, to help customers visualize how pieces fit into their homes and, in turn, reduce returns.

Benefits of using QR codes for both IKEA and its customers

Other potential QR code use cases for IKEA 

While IKEA already uses QR codes extensively, there are more practical ways the brand can use the technology to make the in-store experience even smoother for visitors. Take a look:

QR code menus for IKEA restaurants 

QR codes placed on tables or at entry points in IKEA’s restaurants allow customers to view menus, check ingredients and other details, order directly from their phones, and, in some systems, even pay digitally. This streamlines restaurant operations during peak hours, reduces staff workload and wait times, and enhances the dining experience.

Smart parking with QR codes 

Parking is always a big hassle at busy IKEA locations. QR codes at parking zones can simplify the parking process for visitors, linking them to digital parking tickets and navigation maps & guides. This can help them locate available parking spots and easily navigate back to their car after shopping. 

Guided store navigation

IKEA’s vast, maze-like layouts can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. QR codes placed throughout the store link to interactive digital maps offering clear directions to specific aisles, departments, and even shortcuts to exits, simplifying navigation and making it less stressful and more seamless. 

Loyalty programs and special offers

At IKEA, QR codes can also be used to engage shoppers with personalized discounts and loyalty rewards. Scanning these codes could unlock exclusive discounts, time-sensitive offers, and even IKEA Family benefits (including exciting member-only offers & deals). 

QR codes for sustainability tips

IKEA can also use QR codes across its stores to share sustainability tips with customers. For instance, the codes can be linked to product-recycling and upcycling tips, as well as to information on the nearest recycling stations. This will not only educate shoppers on reducing their environmental footprint but also reinforce the brand’s commitment to sustainable living. 

The bottom line 

By weaving QR codes into the shopping journey, IKEA isn’t just adopting new tech; it’s redefining how customers experience a furniture store. The entire process becomes smoother. Shoppers move at their own pace, skip bottlenecks, access information instantly, and avoid long checkout lines.

For furniture retailers, the impact behind the scenes is just as big. QR codes reduce staff’s routine workload, freeing them to address real customer needs, like product guidance, style advice, and high-touch support. It’s a smart blend of digital convenience and human service, setting a clear benchmark for how modern furniture stores can elevate efficiency without losing the personal touch.

And the best part? You can implement the same system in your store with zero complexity. With QRCodeChimp, bringing IKEA-style QR experiences to life is not just possible, it’s surprisingly easy.

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