NFC technology: the trailblazer for modern processes
In our increasingly digitalized world, the connection between people and technology is becoming ever more important. One of the most exciting developments in this area is Near Field Communication (NFC). Originally introduced as a method for contactless payment, NFC has evolved into a versatile tool that is revolutionizing processes in a wide range of industries. Whether in stadiums, at festivals, in shopping malls, at the gym or at trade fairs and conferences - NFC offers new opportunities to make thecustomer journey more efficient, enjoyable and personal.
Wide availability as the key to success
A key advantage of NFC is its widespread use. Almost every modern smartphone is now equipped with this technology. This makes it easy for both companies and customers to integrate NFC into their everyday lives. Customers can use their mobile devices for contactless payment, storing tickets or accessing special services, for example. Thanks to its intuitive use, there is no need for additional hardware, making processes faster and more accessible. This ease of use lowers the barriers to use and increases acceptance among end customers and companies alike.
NFC and QR codes: A strong duo
However, NFC is not the only technology that supports modern processes. QR codes have also established themselves as a practical and versatile addition. Many applications that can be realized with NFC are also possible with QR codes. These offer companies additional flexibility as they do not require any special hardware and can be scanned by any smartphone. Together, NFC and QR codes form a strong basis for the digitalization and optimization of processes.
What makes NFC and QR codes so special - an example from the wine industry
NFC and QR codes impress with their simplicity and versatility. With a quick scan, data can be transferred, transactions completed or information provided. Both technologies are user-friendly, secure and fast. From cashless payment to personalized customer contact, they are indispensable tools for modern customer interaction. One example. In the wine industry, NFC tags protect high-quality wines from counterfeiting. A scan provides information on origin, production and authenticity, strengthens consumer confidence and ensures brand integrity.
NFC Multi-Purpose Tap: one tap, many possibilities
The NFC Multi-Purpose Tap revolutionizes the contactless user experience by combining several transaction steps in a single tap. Users can simultaneously manage payments, discounts, receipts and loyalty points with just one tap - efficiently, easily and conveniently. In retail, a single tap can be used to pay, collect loyalty points and receive digital receipts. In public transport, seamless payment and ticketing via smartphone is possible, while in the hospitality industry, functions such as check-in, door opening and payment are combined. The multi-purpose tap sets new standards for efficiency and user-friendliness.
Smartstore: A platform for seamless integration
The latest version of Smartstore makes the integration of NFC and QR codes even easier and more efficient. The platform's modular architecture allows companies to flexibly adapt and design their processes. In addition to NFC and QR codes, Smartstore also supports the integration of a wide range of devices, including solutions from www.sunmi.com. This open platform enables applications such as contactless payment, access control and personalized offers, while ensuring that existing infrastructures can continue to be used.
Insights into the areas of application
The possibilities of NFC and QR codes go far beyond payment transactions. In this in-depth blog post, we look at six areas of application for these technologies, including optimizing stadiums, festivals and major events, shopping malls, employee catering, gyms, and trade fairs and conferences. These examples show how the combination of NFC, QR codes and the Smartstore platform can create real added value for both end customers and companies.
A look into the future
The areas of application presented here are not exhaustive - the possibilities are almost unlimited. NFC and QR codes can be used to design numerous other business processes tailored to the specific requirements of different industries.
Find out more about the future of these innovative technologies and how they can revolutionize your business processes. Discover the advantages and opportunities that arise from the combination of NFC, QR codes and Smartstore!
Stadium: Efficient access control and in-seat ordering
Access control with NFC
Modern stadiums are not only venues for sporting highlights, but also meeting places for thousands of fans who expect a smooth and convenient experience. This is where NFC technology plays a crucial role. With NFC wristbands or cards, fans can store their tickets digitally and significantly speed up access to the stadium. Instead of presenting physical tickets, a quick scan of the NFC device at a reading point is all that is needed, reducing long queues at the entrance and making admission control more efficient. This technology ensures a stress-free start to the stadium visit.
Use of smartphones as a central platform
The benefits become even smarter when fans can use their own smartphone as a central platform. With modern cell phones that support NFC, all processes can be simplified even further. Instead of using an additional NFC band or card, fans can use their cell phone to store tickets, order snacks and access special services. This not only increases convenience, but also makes the overall stadium experience more flexible and efficient.
In-seat ordering
Another highlight is the integration of in-seat ordering. Fans can order snacks and drinks directly from their seat by scanning a QR code attached to their seat or using NFC bands and their smartphone. After scanning, they are redirected to an order page where they can make their selection and pay contactlessly. Mobile soft POS systems enable service staff to deliver orders directly to the seat. This solution not only reduces waiting times, but also significantly increases visitor satisfaction.
Personalized fan experience
In addition, NFC wristbands and smartphones can serve as multifunctional tools. They provide access to VIP areas, store bonus points or discounts and enable a personalized fan experience. Event organizers benefit from the collection of valuable data that they can use to improve the offer and infrastructure in the stadium in a targeted manner. The combination ofNFC and QR code technologies thus offers a flexible and future-oriented solution that meets the increasing expectations of modern stadium visitors.
Integration with Smartstore
Another advantage for event organizers is the integration with central platforms such as Smartstore. With the latest version of Smartstore 6, stadium operators can efficiently manage all the processes described - from access control to ordering. By supporting a wide range of devices, including Sunmi's solutions, the platform remains flexible and open to customization. This enables a seamless digitalization of the stadium experience that delights both fans and event organizers.
You can find a detailed report on how a stadium visit can be improved in this way in this blog post.
Festivals and major events: Cashless payment and program integration
The future of festivals: smart solutions with NFC and QR codes
Festivals and major events attract millions of people every year. However, the size and complexity of such events pose challenges for both visitors and organizers. Long queues at stalls, complicated payment processes and finding your way around extensive grounds can all detract from the experience. NFC technology and QR codes offer a solution here by making processes more efficient and significantly improving the visitor experience.
Cashless payment
A key application of NFC at festivals is cashless payment. Visitors receive an NFC wristband at the entrance with which they can top up their credit. It is even more convenient if visitors can reserve their credit online in advance. This credit can then either be transferred directly to the NFC wristband at the entrance to the festival or event or activated via NFC on their cell phone. This option offers maximum flexibility and allows visitors to shop at the stalls without delay.
Integration into the festival program
Another advantage is the integration into the festival program. NFC touchpoints or QR codes can be installed at strategic points on the site. Visitors scan either their NFC wristband, their smartphone or the QR code to receive information about the current line-up, stage times and special offers. This interactivity not only improves orientation, but also creates a closer bond between festival and visitor. Organizers can also link special promotions such as competitions or discount offers to NFC scans or QR code interactions in order to actively involve participants.
Gamification and exclusive experiences
NFC and QR codes also offer opportunities for gamification. Visitors can collect points by scanning NFC touchpoints or QR codes at various stations. These points can be exchanged for exclusive prizes or experiences that enrich the festival experience. Access to VIP areas or backstage tours can also be controlled via the NFC wristband or QR code access, which opens up additional sources of revenue.
Advantages for event organizers
With the current version of Smartstore, in which artificial intelligence is firmly integrated, further role-based processes can be automated. This extension enables event organizers to make data-driven decisions faster and more precisely. For example, visitor flows can be analyzed in real time and patterns recognized that help to identify popular sales stands or busy stages. The insights gained from this help to plan future events even more efficiently and deploy resources in a targeted manner. Smartstore also offers the option of controlling all processes centrally. Thanks to comprehensive integrations, NFC and QR code technologies can be seamlessly connected to existing systems and devices, including Sunmisolutions.
Autonomous 24/7 stores
Another innovative approach is the provision of autonomous 24/7 stores for visitors, as realized with Smartstore. These stores enable festival participants to buy snacks, drinks or merchandise contactlessly around the clock. This not only increases convenience, but also flexibility for event organizers.
In summary, NFC technology and QR codes are revolutionizing festivals and major events by bringing convenience, interactivity and efficiency to the fore. In this context, it is also possible to work with RFID-based tags to create a grab & go smart store. Visitors enjoy a seamless experience, while event organizers can optimize their processes and open up new revenue streams. NFC and QR codes are thus becoming indispensable tools for the digital transformation of major events.
You can find a detailed report on how a festival visit can be improved in this way in this blog post.
Shopping centers: personalized offers and interactive navigation
Challenges and opportunities
Shopping centers today face the challenge of maintaining their attractiveness in the face of growing online retail. Customers are looking for personalized experiences and added value that they cannot find online. The combination ofNFC technology and QR codes offers an innovative solution to make shopping centers more modern, efficient and customer-oriented.
Personalized offers
A key advantage of NFC and QR codes is the ability to send personalized offers directly to customers. As soon as visitors enter the shopping center, they can either check in with their smartphone at an NFC touchpoint or by scanning a QR code. After checking in, customers receive individual offers, discounts or coupons based on their previous shopping behavior. These offers can be updated in real time and adapted to special promotions in the shopping center. This not only increases customer satisfaction, but also motivates spontaneous purchases.
Interactive navigation
Another focus is interactive navigation. Shopping centers are often large and confusing, which can be frustrating for customers. Strategically placed NFC touchpoints or QR codes can help here. The customer scans either their NFC device or the QR code, selects their destination, e.g. a specific store or restaurant, and receives an interactive map that shows them the quickest way to get there. This function saves time and makes a visit to the shopping center more efficient and enjoyable. Additional options can be offered for customers with special needs, such as barrier-free routes.
Loyalty programs
NFC technology and QR codes also support the integration of loyalty programs. Customers who regularly shop in a shopping center can collect points by scanning either their NFC-enabled device or the store's QR code every time they shop. These points can be exchanged for discounts, free items or exclusive services. Such programs increase customer loyalty and encourage return visits to the mall.
Benefits for operators
NFC and QR codes also offer considerable added value for shopping center operators. These technologies allow them to collect valuable data on visitor behavior, such as preferred stores, popular times or length of stay. This data can be used to plan targeted marketing campaigns and optimize the infrastructure. The success of promotions and offers can also be measured in real time.
Linking online and offline experiences
Another area of application is the linking of online and offline experiences. Customers can collect or return goods purchased online using their NFC device or by scanning a QR code in the shopping center. This creates a seamless connection between e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail and ensures a consistent customer experience.
Autonomous 24/7 stores
An innovative approach supported by platforms such as Smartstore is the integration of autonomous 24/7 stores within shopping centers. These stores offer customers the opportunity to purchase products outside of regular opening hours. With the help of NFC and QR codes, visitors can select, pay for and take away products directly without the need for staff on site.
In addition, the RFID technology integrated in Smartstore can also be used to operate such autonomous stores. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) makes it possible to automatically identify and register products without the need for a direct scan. This speeds up the checkout process and makes shopping even more efficient. You can find more information on this in this blog post.
Integration of parking space management
In cooperation with our partner SKIDATA, Smartstore offers shopping centers the opportunity to seamlessly integrate parking management into the entire visit process. Customers can link their vehicle license plate to their account, enabling numerous interactions. When entering the parking lot, the license plate number is automatically recognized and the barrier opens. During the visit, customers can collect points in various stores, which can be redeemed when leaving the parking garage to reduce or waive parking fees. This not only creates a more convenient experience for visitors, but also increases loyalty to the shopping center. You can find more information on this in this blog post.
In summary, NFC technology and QR codes are revolutionizing shopping centers by improving the customer experience, encouraging interaction and making processes more efficient. Visitors benefit from a personalized and seamless shopping experience, while operators increase their attractiveness and competitiveness. These technologies turn shopping centers into interactive worlds of experience that meet the expectations of modern consumers.
Break-time catering for employees: from apprentices to management
Flexible catering solutions
Whether in small, medium-sized or large companies - efficient and smooth catering for employees plays a central role. Thanks to NFC and QR code technologies, Smartstore offers solutions that enable seamless catering during breaks. From apprentices to management, from employees in production to teams in offices - catering can be customized to meet individual needs.
Self-service kiosks and vending machines
Employees can use NFC-enabled devices or QR codes to order and pay for food and drinks at self-service kiosks or vending machines. These systems are not only efficient, but also enableround-the-clock availability of snacks, drinks and hot meals. This flexibility ensures optimum catering from morning to night, especially in shift work. NFC and QR code technologies minimize waiting times and facilitate billing, allowing employees to concentrate fully on their tasks.
Digital canteen processes
For larger companies with their own canteens, Smartstore offers the opportunity to efficiently digitalize canteen processes. Employees can use their smartphone or NFC wristband to pre-order food, save their favorite dishes or call up individual nutrition plans. This data can be used not only to offer employees a personalized experience, but also to optimize the planning of kitchen processes. The integration of QR codes also makes it easy to process spontaneous orders.
Integration of existing systems
A major advantage of the Smartstore platform is its flexibility. Companies can seamlessly integrate their existing catering infrastructure such as cash register systems, vending machines or catering services. The openness of the platform makes it possible to use both Sunmi devices and other systems to develop customized solutions for any size of business. This means that both small companies and large organizations can benefit from the digitalization of their catering.
Sustainability through digitalization
In addition to efficiency, the digitalization of communal catering also offers benefits in the area of sustainability. By collecting data, companies can better control consumption and reduce waste. Employees can use the platform to call up information on allergens, nutritional values or the origin of the food in real time, which increases confidence in the catering offer.
Gyms: access control and personalized workouts
Access control
Gyms play a central role in the everyday lives of many people who want to keep fit and live healthily. At the same time, members' expectations of convenience, efficiency and individualization are increasing.NFC technology and QR codes offer decisive advantages here: they not only make visiting the gym easier, but also smarter and more personalized.
A key advantage of NFC and QR codes in gyms is simplified access control. Members receive an NFC wristband or use their smartphone or a QR code to enter the gym. Instead of dealing with membership cards or PIN codes, they simply scan their device or the code on a reader at the entrance. This method is fast, secure and reduces waiting times, especially at peak times. In addition, members can open their personal lockers with their NFC wristband or QR codes, further increasing convenience.
Personalized training
With NFC and QR codes, members can enjoy a personalized training experience. Individual training plans can be loaded directly onto the devices using NFC-enabled devices or QR codes. Members hold their NFC wristband or smartphone to the device, which automatically adopts their preferred settings such as weight, speed or repetitions. This function saves time and ensures that members can concentrate on their training. Progress can also be synchronized directly into a fitness app, which increases motivation. However, these functions are only possible if the training equipment isIoT-enabled.
Nutrition and additional services
NFC and QR codes also simplify the area of nutrition and additional services. Vending machines for protein shakes, snacks or nutritional supplements offer a contactless self-service option. Members can simply use their NFC wristband, smartphone or a QR code to select products and pay immediately. These vending machines, as they are described in modern vending systems, offer round-the-clock catering and reduce the need for staff at the studio bar. This saves time, encourages spontaneous purchases and increases the studio's revenue. For a detailed report on how vending machines enable self-service, read this blog post.
Loyalty programs
NFC and QR codes also offer gyms the opportunity to offer their members individual benefits. Members can collect loyalty points by exercising regularly, attending classes or making purchases. These points can be redeemed for discounts, exclusive services or additional training sessions. Such programs promote member loyalty and motivate them to train regularly.
Sustainability and digitalization
Digitalization through NFC and QR codes enables fitness studios to make processes more efficient and meet the needs of their members. Sustainable approaches such as thereduction of paper through digital loyalty cards or the automation of routine processes help to minimize the environmental impact and improve the customer experience.
In summary, NFC and QR codes are transforming gyms by taking convenience, efficiency and personalization to a new level. Members benefit from a seamless and personalized experience, while operators can optimize their processes and strengthen customer loyalty. By integrating modern vending machines and digital technologies, gyms become innovative places that meet the needs of modern customers.
Trade fairs and conferences: Networking and lead generation
Importance of trade fairs and conferences
Trade fairs and conferences are important platforms for exchanging ideas, presenting new products and services and making valuable business contacts. However, with the increasing size and complexity of such events, it is a challenge to provide a seamless experience for attendees while increasing efficiency for exhibitors and organizers. NFC technology andQR codes have the potential to transform these processes by facilitating networking and optimizing lead generation.
Digitized business cards
A major benefit of NFC and QR codes at trade fairs and conferences is the ability to digitize business cards, giving attendees NFC-enabled badges, wristbands or QR codes with their contact details. Instead of exchanging physical business cards, they can simply pass them on by scanning the NFC device or QR code. This is not only faster and more environmentally friendly, but also ensures that no information is lost. The contact data collected can be automatically integrated into CRM systems, making it easier for everyone involved to follow up.
Efficient lead generation
For exhibitors, NFC and QR codes offer excellent opportunities for lead generation. Visitors can scan NFC touchpoints on the stand or use QR codes to obtain information on products, services or special offers. At the same time, visitors' contact details are recorded so that exhibitors can plan targeted marketing measures. This process is not only more efficient than traditional methods, but also increases the likelihood of prospects becoming long-term customers.
Gamification elements
Another advantage is the integration of gamification elements. Organizers can motivate attendees to visit different booths or presentations by offering points or rewards for scanning NFC tags or QR codes. These gamification approaches increase attendee engagement and encourage interaction with exhibitors. The points collected can be converted into prizes, discounts or other exclusive benefits that enhance the event experience.
Improved logistics and navigation
NFC and QR codes also improve logistics and navigation at large events. Attendees can use their NFC devices at touchpoints or scan QR codes to retrieve personalized agendas, find their way to a specific booth or get information about upcoming presentations. This reduces frustration caused by long searches and allows for optimal use of time during the event.
Contactless payment
Another important aspect is the option of contactless payment. Whether for booking workshops, purchasing products at the stand or paying for food and drinks - NFC and QR codes ensure fast and smooth transactions. The entire catering sector, from cafés and food trucks to self-service kiosks, can befully digitized. Customers can use NFC touchpoints or scan QR codes to place their order, pay directly and collect it from a pick-up point if required. These systems minimize waiting times, increase efficiency and offer visitors a seamless dining experience. Soft POS systems allow operators to accept payments directly, creating additional revenue streams and increasing customer satisfaction.
Automated delivery with robotic systems
Another innovation is the ability to have food and drinks delivered directly to the exhibitor's stand. Thanks to NFC and QR codes, exhibitors can conveniently place their orders by digitally calling up the menu options and specifying the desired delivery location. Payment is also contactless and staff deliver the order directly to the specified location. This process is made even more innovative by the use of IoT-enabled robotic systems that take and fulfill orders autonomously. These robotic systems are linked to digital ordering systems such as NFC and QR code technologies, which increases the efficiency and precision of deliveries. Such systems not only automate the service, but also provide an impressive demonstration of technological innovation.
Data analysis and event optimization
For event organizers, NFC and QR codes offer the advantage of collecting valuable data on visitor flows and interests. Which stands were the most popular? Which presentations were attended the most? Such information can be used tobetter plan future events and respond more specifically to the needs of participants. In addition, the data collected can be used to optimize event logistics and exhibitor placement.
In summary, NFC and QR codes are revolutionizing trade fairs and conferences by making networking, lead generation and event management more efficient. Attendees benefit from a personalized and seamless experience, while exhibitors and organizers can better achieve their goals. These technologies are transforming traditional events into digital experiences that meet the demands of an increasingly connected world.
Summary: Smartstore as an integrated solution for NFC and QR code-based processes
The areas of application described for NFC and QR code technology clearly show how diverse and valuable their use is in various industries. However, in order to exploit the full potential of these technologies, a software solution is required that intelligently links all processes together. This is where our Smartstore software comes into play. As a leading commerce and digitization platform, Smartstore offers a comprehensive solution specifically designed to integrate modern technologies such as NFC and QR codes in various application areas.
Microservices architecture and flexibility
A particular advantage of Smartstore is its microservices architecture. This enables individual functions and services to be modularly designed in the form of plugins and scaled independently of one another. As Smartstore is based entirely onMicrosoft technologies, any other services from the Microsoft AZURE cloud platform can be easily integrated, allowing companies to flexibly adapt and optimize their processes without having to change the overall system.
Central management and integration
Our platform combines the management of NFC and QR code-based processes in a central solution that ranges fromaccess control to personalized offers and smooth payment. Smartstore can integrate not only Sunmi's hardware, which is fully integrated as IoT, but alsoany other POS systems and devices. The open architecture ensures that the existing infrastructure can be used and new technologies can be integrated at the same time.
Automation and personalization
With Smartstore as a microservice, companies can automate their workflows, analyse data in real time and improve thecustomer journey through personalized experiences. The platform also supports the integration of modern technologies such as RFID for the operation of autonomous stores and IoT-enabled robotic systems that can deliver food and drinks to specific locations at trade fairs, for example. Thanks to its high scalability, the platform is suitable for bothsmall companies and large corporations that want to future-proof their digital business models.
Smartstore 6: focus on artificial intelligence
The release of version 6 of Smartstore is significant news. This version not only brings improvements to the processes described, but also focuses entirely on the topic of artificial intelligence (AI). With version 6, a comprehensive AI framework has been integrated into the software, which uses ChatGPTin the first phase. However, this framework enables companies to easily integrate any other AI solution with just a few clicks. As a result, Smartstore opens up a whole new dimension of process automation andpersonalization. The use of AI in Smartstore version 6 creates additional opportunities tooptimize business processes, improve customer interactions and support data-driven decisions.
Seamless digitalization
In summary, Smartstore offers everything you need to seamlessly integrate NFC, QR code or RFID technologies into existing processes and take them to a new level. The platform combines flexibility, scalability and user-friendliness to meet the requirements of an increasingly digitalized world. Whether optimizing stadium attendance, festivals, shopping malls, employee catering, gyms or trade fairs,Smartstore is the ideal solution to successfully implement digital transformation.
Do you have further questions about the use of NFC technologies or would you like to make an appointment for a live demo? We are at your disposal:
Email: info@smartstore.com
Phone: +4923153350
SmartStore AG
Kaiserstraße 63-65
44135 Dortmund