As digital payments become more widespread, quick response (QR) code payments have emerged as a customer preference. It’s becoming increasingly important for businesses to understand and support this payment method. QR codes offer many benefits, including easy payments, faster transaction processing times, and superior security.

The global QR code payment market—worth $12.2 billion USD in 2024—is projected to grow by 18.7% from 2025–2034. However, the current popularity of QR codes in France is limited. Typical uses of QR codes include renting self-service bicycles or viewing online menus at restaurants. However, the expansion of digital payments and wallets is creating new opportunities for French businesses willing to enable QR code payments.

In this article, we outline what you need to know about QR code payments and how your business can implement them.

What’s in this article?

• What is a QR code?
  
• How do QR code payments work?
  
• Who can use QR code payments?
  
• The different types of QR codes
  
• The benefits of QR code payments
  
• How to create QR code payment links
  

What is a QR code?

A QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned with a mobile device to access services such as payments. The codes are a pattern of black squares on a white background. Created by the Japanese business Denso Wave in 1994, QR codes later became popular worldwide. Scanning the code directs the customer to a source of information or a webpage.

To make a payment using a QR code, the customer scans it with a mobile device. It redirects them to a secure payment platform. They can finalize the transaction directly on their smartphone or tablet through the payment service provider (PSP).

How do QR code payments work?

QR code payments require using a mobile device to scan the code. Once the customer scans the code, they are typically redirected to a payment link. The customer then follows the instructions provided by the PSP to finalize the transaction.

Depending on the transaction type and volume, QR code payments rely on one of the two following processes:

Customer scans business’s QR code

Businesses can generate their own payment QR codes and display them on payment terminals or printed materials. They redirect customers to the PSP. Customers can then pay using their preferred method—a debit or credit card, a digital wallet, or any other contactless payment method.

Business scans customer’s QR code

Another QR code payment method involves the business scanning the customer’s QR code to initiate a payment. In this case, the business enters the amount for the goods or services, and the customer creates a QR code using their payment app. The business scans the code, and the customer confirms the payment.

This solution can be ideal for small businesses and independent professionals handling low transaction volumes. This method is also most effective when the business and customer both use the same payment platform. It can also help reduce costs, especially those associated with payments through card readers.

Who can use QR code payments?

Whether offering products or services, any business based in France—including retailers, service providers, tourist accommodations, and independent professionals, among others—can accept QR code-based mobile payments:

• Stores and retailers: A traditional retailer can display a static QR code at the register to facilitate in-person payments. This payment method doesn’t require cash or physical cards, making in-store payments easier.
  
• Restaurants and cafés: These businesses can print payment QR codes on customer checks or display them at every table. Customers can scan the codes to view the menu, place an order, or pay. This cuts down on the staff’s workload and speeds up the payment process.
  
• Ecommerce: Online businesses can integrate QR codes into their websites’ checkout pages or emailed invoices. Scanning the QR code allows customers to initiate the payment without manually entering their details.
  
• Peer-to-peer payments: Individuals can generate payment QR codes through their banks or digital wallets. The codes can then be scanned for payment purposes. This feature is ideal for certain settings—such as arts and crafts fairs—where creators offer their wares to the public.
  
• Subscription services: Businesses that offer subscriptions can use QR codes to make recurring payments easier. For example, a gym can integrate QR codes into members’ monthly bills.
  
• Event ticketing: Theaters and performance venues can use QR codes for tickets and concessions. Most audience members have their smartphones with them during events, making it easier to pay for refreshments or merchandise with QR codes.
  
• Charitable donations: Nonprofits can make donating simpler by supporting QR code payments. QR codes on their websites, social media, or physical locations allow supporters to donate using preferred payment methods.
  

The different types of QR codes

There are two different types of QR codes—static and dynamic. Static codes can’t be modified after generation, while dynamic codes can be edited or updated. Each type has its own benefits and uses. Here are their key features:

Static QR codes

Static QR codes contain specific, encoded data. They can be used an unlimited number of times by any number of customers. These codes are typically used in situations where updates are not required (e.g., to link to a payment uniform resource locator [URL]). If the URL changes, a new QR code must be generated.

Dynamic QR codes

Unlike with static QR codes, the information stored in dynamic codes can be edited after generation. The actual data isn’t stored in the QR code; instead, the QR code points to where the information can be found online. This allows businesses to track scans in real time. Unlike static QR codes, dynamic QR codes require an active internet connection to access data.

The benefits of QR code payments

QR codes stand out as secure, user-friendly payment solutions. They allow businesses and customers to carry out transactions without cash or physical cards. As customers in France increasingly rely on contactless payment methods and digital wallets, adopting QR codes could represent an opportunity for businesses.

For businesses

Supporting QR code payments offers businesses operating in France several benefits:

• Easy payments: An ecommerce website can display a QR code on its checkout page. Customers scan the code to pay without needing to enter their card information.

• Superior security: QR codes are a secure, contactless payment option. They do not require the handling of sensitive data, ensuring optimal security.

• Operational efficiency: QR code payments remove the risk of manual errors and counterfeit bills. They don’t require trips to the bank, simplifying cash management.

For customers

Using a QR code to pay is also beneficial for customers in France:

• Simple contactless payment: Businesses can use QR codes to enable contactless payments, improving the customer experience with a quick, user-friendly, and secure checkout process.

• Digital wallet integration: Digital wallet apps often feature integrated payment QR codes. This allows a single interface to support multiple payment methods, including cards and bank accounts. Because this solution makes it possible to pay in a different currency, it can prevent travelers from having their payments blocked.

• Payment history: QR code payments are typically recorded and easy to find in the payment app’s transaction history, making it easier to monitor expenses.

How to create QR code payment links

Generating payment QR codes is easy, but the specific steps vary from one platform or service to another. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

• Choose a PSP: PSPs support QR code payments. Your location and your business’s specific requirements should inform your choice. You might select a French bank, a digital wallet service such as Apple Pay, or a dedicated payment platform such as Stripe.
  
• Create a business account: You need to create a business account with the selected PSP. This account will be associated with your QR code and used to receive payments.
  
• Locate the QR code creation feature: Log in to your account on the service provider’s platform and look for the QR code creation feature. It’s typically found in the payment or tool section.
  
• Enter the payment details: You will be prompted to enter information such as your merchant ID and account details. You could also be asked for a transaction amount if the code will be used for a specific product or service.
  
• Generate the QR code: Create a unique QR code associated with the payment details you entered.
  
• Test the code: Scan the QR code before deploying it to make sure it works properly. The code should trigger the right payment process, and payments should be directed to the relevant account.
  
• Implement the QR code: After testing the QR code, you can display it on your point-of-sale (POS) terminal, website, receipts, or invoices. Use it in any way that aligns with your QR code payment strategy.
  

When using QR codes for payments, security is paramount. Make sure you rely on trustworthy, secure payment platforms. In addition, display or share your QR codes in ways that reduce the risk of fraud or tampering.

With Stripe Payments, you can boost your revenue using a range of customizable payment tools that are easy to implement. Stripe Payment Links’ no-code, anti-fraud protection and advanced features make QR code payments more secure and boost authorization rates.