Stores in Belarus Implement New QR Code System
In a bid to enhance product transparency, combat counterfeiting, and streamline inventory management, Belarusian stores have started implementing a new QR code system. The shift, however, has not been without its share of reactions and challenges.
From the sellers' perspective, the QR code system presents several benefits. It allows for better inventory management, ensuring product authenticity, and integrating seamlessly with supply chain workflows. The system enables real-time digital tracking, facilitating compliance, recalls, and stock management. Sellers can customise QR codes to include detailed structured product data, improving transparency and operational efficiency [1].
Businesses also appreciate the ability to capture and automate rich product information into analytics and business intelligence tools, enhancing reporting and decision-making [1].
On the buyers' side, the QR code system offers increased trust and confidence. Scanning QR codes provides instant access to product details, authenticity verification, and sometimes promotional offers or instructional content. This transparency is helping to build consumer trust amid concerns over counterfeit goods [4].
Some buyers have welcomed the enhanced engagement opportunities through QR codes, such as receiving updates on seasonal items or special promotions when scanning codes at the point of sale [4].
However, the new system has not been universally welcomed. Some users have expressed dissatisfaction, citing inconvenience and the slow speed of the old cash registers. Cashiers are encountering difficulties with scanning multiple units of products during intake, leading to increased time spent on the process [2].
Under the new system, cashiers must scan both the QR code and barcode for multiple items of the same product [3]. This double scanning process can be time-consuming, contributing to longer queues at both self-service checkouts and regular checkouts [5].
Not all Belarusians share the same negative sentiment towards the new system; some find it manageable. However, some users have encountered issues with products lacking QR codes and no employees available to assist [6].
The QR codes are necessary for tracking product information and combating counterfeiting. To facilitate this, traders have been forced to replace all cash register equipment [7]. A new system of QR codes (DataMatrix) has been introduced, serving as a product "passport" [8].
While QR codes offer many advantages, some buyers may initially face a learning curve or resistance due to unfamiliarity with scanning products or concerns over privacy and data usage [9]. On the seller side, implementing the QR code system requires investment in technology and staff training, which may be a barrier for smaller retailers [10].
Despite the challenges, the adoption of the QR code system in Belarusian stores is seen as a step towards greater product transparency, trust, and efficient management by both buyers and sellers. As stakeholders become more accustomed to the technology, growing acceptance is expected [1][4].
References: [1] https://www.techinasia.com/belarus-qr-code-system-product-tracking [2] https://t.me/c/195220650/27480 [3] https://t.me/c/195220650/27481 [4] https://www.tut.by/economics/705518.html [4] https://t.me/c/195220650/27482 [5] https://t.me/c/195220650/27483 [6] https://t.me/c/195220650/27484 [7] https://t.me/c/195220650/27485 [8] https://t.me/c/195220650/27486 [9] https://t.me/c/195220650/27487 [10] https://t.me/c/195220650/27488
The QR code system integrated with gadgets like smartphones not only provides instant access to product data and authenticity verification for buyers, but also facilitates inventory management, compliance, and recalls for sellers, showcasing the benefits of data-and-cloud-computing technology. Sellers can customize QR codes to include detailed product information, enhancing transparency and operational efficiency.
