Mobile QR Codes to Catch Virgin Trains

Virgin Trains has introduced new mobile phone-friendly versions of its pocket timetables and route maps. These can be accessed from posters at all stations. So, whenever you’ve got your mobile with you, you’ve got your Virgin Trains timetable.

How it works? To access the Virgin Trains’ pocket timetables, simply download a QR (Quick Response) Reader, free of charge, from either an Android, or BlackBerry or iPhone app store.

Once that’s done, use the phone to scan the QR code on any one of the Virgin Trains posters at stations. The requested timetable will load on to the phone within minutes.

Today, QR codes are increasingly being used by marketers to stay connected with buyers. Recently, Japanese automotive company Nissan announced that it is the first Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to offer QR codes on individual vehicle window stickers across its entire lineup, beginning with 2012 models. (Read: Nissan Vehicles to Come with QR Codes)

According to a STRATA quarterly survey of major advertising agencies, QR codes are getting more popular as over half of the agencies polled use QR codes in campaigns. (Read: Digital Gains amid Slow Ad Market)

Now, shoppers can see, read and even hear the inside story about vehicles on display, whenever it suits their schedules. The technology of mobile tags and smartphone tag readers promises rich content and interactive functionality for a personalized shopping experience.

Porsche Cars North America announced a new way for consumers to do more than just “kick the tires” when they visit a Porsche dealership after hours, or when they prefer to be “just looking” while in the showroom.

Each scan of a mobile tag-equipped Porsche automatically opens a micro website utilizing the phone’s built in web browser and features specific product information to the exact car being browsed, including vehicle videos, leading press reviews and even the unique sound of the Porsche model’s engine. (Read: What Mobile Tags Do for Car Buyers)

Earlier, Microsoft Tag and Universal Pictures announced a new campaign to promote “Bridesmaids,” the comedy from producer Judd Apatow (“Knocked Up,” “Superbad”) and director Paul Feig (“Freaks and Geeks”).

For mobile marketing, Universal, through the Tag campaign, enabled smartphone users to interact with full-page ads in magazines. (Read: How to Get Connected with Bridesmaids Using Tag)

At the moment customers can upload Virgin Trains’ full range of pocket timetables. From 11 December 2011, they will also be able to access the four Route Guides, giving them quick and easy access to Virgin Trains’ comprehensive timetable information. When a new timetable is released the QR code will need to be scanned again. It was announced today, Oct. 14.

Virgin Trains is the brand name of Virgin Rail Group (VRG), which is owned 51 percent by Virgin Group and 49 percent by Stagecoach.

Photo courtesy: Virgin Trains