You’ve probably seen QR codes around the place, especially since COVID-19, where it seemed that every restaurant and business adopted them to enforce social distancing. Nowadays, they are still used for product packaging, restaurant menus, retail promotions, flight tickets, and government check-ins, etc.
But how do you make them? And what are the best QR code generators to use in the big 2025?
The Best QR Code Generators in 2025
QR Tiger
QR Tiger is one of the most trusted and feature-rich QR code platforms. It supports static and dynamic QR codes, custom branding with logos, and detailed scan analytics. It’s ideal for Australian businesses that want the flexibility to edit links after printing, making it perfect for packaging, menus, and long-term campaigns.
ViralQR
ViralQR is designed for marketers and brands that need advanced analytics and customisable designs. It tracks scans by device, location, and time, offering insights that are particularly useful for Australian businesses running national promotions or localised campaigns.
QRcoDeal
QRcoDeal is perfect for businesses managing multi-link campaigns. A single QR code can direct users to menus, booking systems, social profiles, and product pages, making it ideal for hospitality venues and FMCG packaging where one code needs to do multiple jobs.
ZebraQR
ZebraQR focuses on hospitality and food service businesses, making it easy to create and manage digital menus, highlight allergy information, and update prices instantly. With QR menus now standard across Australia, ZebraQR is a popular choice for cafés, restaurants, and bars.
Uniqode (formerly Beaconstac)
Uniqode is an enterprise-level solution offering SOC 2 and GDPR compliance, editable dynamic codes, and integration with Google Analytics. It’s trusted by agencies, government departments, and large organisations across Australia that need secure, scalable, and long-term QR code management.
Other Options Worth Considering
- Adobe Express – A free tool for creating simple static QR codes quickly.
- VistaPrint – Great for small businesses needing QR codes printed on flyers, menus, and packaging.
- Visualead – Ideal for branded, image-based QR designs for premium marketing campaigns.
- Bitly QR – Best for short, trackable QR links with integrated analytics.
QR Codes and FMCG Packaging in Australia
In Australia’s competitive retail landscape, QR codes are now a valuable tool for FMCG brands wanting to connect directly with consumers. They’re used to share product details, sustainability information, exclusive offers, and even video content, all while saving packaging space.
If you’re looking to integrate QR codes into your product packaging, our FMCG packaging services can help you design durable, on-brand QR codes that look professional and scan perfectly for years.
How to Make Your QR Codes Last Long-Term
- Choose the Right Type of QR Code
Static QR Codes
- Best for permanent destinations like your homepage or product information.
- They never expire as long as the linked URL remains active.
Dynamic QR Codes
- Editable after printing, making them ideal for campaigns and packaging updates.
- Require ongoing hosting; if your provider shuts down, the QR code will stop working.
- Use Durable Printing Materials
For packaging, menus, outdoor signs, and posters, use high-quality, weather-resistant materials like vinyl, coated stock, laminated paper, or plastic. Print at high resolution to ensure sharp, scannable codes that will be protected from harsh weather and environmental conditions.
- Design for Maximum Scanability
- Maintain a strong contrast between the QR code and its background.
- Avoid packing too much data into one code; keep designs clean and simple.
- Use medium-to-high error correction levels so codes remain scannable even with minor damage.
- Maintain Your Dynamic Codes
For dynamic codes:
- Choose a reliable provider with proven long-term support.
- Keep subscriptions active to avoid expired links.
- Back up your campaign URLs to migrate codes if needed.
- Test and Monitor Regularly
- Periodically scan your printed QR codes to confirm they still work.
- Monitor analytics dashboards for dynamic codes.
- Update linked URLs immediately if the content changes.
- Ensure Future Compatibility
Stick with standard QR formats to guarantee compatibility with future smartphones and scanning apps. Avoid proprietary formats unless you control the full ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
There is an array of websites and platforms that can quickly whip up custom QR codes that are suited for your needs. By choosing the right platform, designing thoughtfully, printing with durability in mind, and maintaining your codes over time, you can ensure your QR codes remain effective for years to come.