How to print a QR code label
Having a QR code label on your wine or other alcohol products enables your potential customers to unlock additional information about your wines or winery. The only thing they need to do is scan the QR code! Some of the information they will be able to access is:
Once the QR code labels are scanned, your customers can easily access rich data about your products. In addition to the government-mandated information, your customers can access your product technical sheet. This article will explain everything you need to know to create your QR code label.
Generate a QR Code
A number of options are available to you:
Online QR Code Generator
There are a number of paid and free online QR code generators. This generator will allow you to edit the image and choose the information you want to display when a person scans the code. Then, you can export the QR code image as a PDF file and print the QR code label.
- Pro: Easy to use and many of them offer a free option
- Con: You are beholden and limited to the information that you can enter. Scan statistics are on a paid plan. The information captured typically resides on a third-party server and is not alcohol-specific limiting the information's usability.
Label Maker Software
You could use a label maker to create and customize your label with a QR code.
- Pro: This alternative can be the best option to give a particular imprint to each wine.
- Con: More expensive. Could be quite time-consuming. Label design is limited to the functionality offered by the label maker software. You will have to invest more money in either a specific printer or label stock.
alclabel.com
For companies in the alcohol industry, this provides the best value-for-money options.
- Pro: Specific to the alcohol industry. Provides you with data-rich statistics on scans. Allows you to connect the QR code to your Technical Sheet. Allows you easily roll forward a QR code from one vintage to the next.
- Con: Specific to the alcohol industry.
Once you have generated a QR code for the individual product, download the QR code image and associate it with its respective product in Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, Airtable or the dedicated product management software of your choice.
Refer to our guide on "How to design and generate a QR code label"
Embed QR Code on Back Label
This step is highly dependent upon your workflow, bottling and labelling process. Using imaging software, embed the QR code as part of the back label. Whether you are doing it yourself or working with a designer, the sky is the limit on creative ways to make it seamlessly fit on the label and enhance your brand.
Steps to Print a Label
The process for printing a QR code label is relatively easy.
1. DIY
If you are printing the labels yourself, or for smaller print runs, follow your existing process for printing labels.
2. Print Company
For professional results, or for larger print runs, use a Print Company. The cost per label is lower as the set-up costs are distributed across a greater number of labels. The Print Company will specify the label requirements, like print resolution, bleeds, colour scheme (CMYK), number of colours, material, etc. This option unlocks unlimited creativity and options for the labels. However, bear in mind that the more unique your asks, the higher will be the cost per label. If you are on a budget, always opt out for common sizes and one or two colours.
Final thoughts
Creating and printing QR codes is the easiest way to increase your brand visibility in 2022. The Food and Beverage regulators of many countries are in the process of introducing labelling regulations to drive increased transparency for alcohol products.
Having a QR, smart, label unlocks a ton of benefits. In addition to maintaining regulatory compliance, your customers will be able to learn more about your product and connect with your brand. The only thing they need is a mobile phone.
