Heinz Ketchup Thanks Veterans with QR Codes

heinz-qrcode-backIn what is one of the more novel uses of the QR code, Heinz Corporation - the same one that makes the ketchup we love - is using QR codes to thank veterans and simultaneously make a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project. 

When you first scan the QR code on a specially designated Heinz Ketchup bottle, it takes you to a page where you can choose one of four different cards to send.  Next you personalize the card wtih your name, state and a personal message, of up to 250 characters.  Heinz also asks for an email address, which (thankfully) it promises not to share.   There is also a little box that is checked, to "opt-in" for "news and information from HJ Heinz Company, including product updates, special offers and recipes." 
 
In a really cool twist, you can also choose the veteran you would like to thank.  I selected my father.  
 
Lastly, you are taken to a screen where you preview the card and then have a chance to Share it on Facebook.
 
This is one of the best QR code campaigns I have ever seen, for the following reasons: 
1. It rewards the participant - in this case, with good feelings for a) having thanked a veteran and  b) for helping Heinz donate money to a worthy project. 
2. It is fast
3. It fits the screen nicely. 
4. There were no problems running on my Android Galaxy S4. 
5. It is respectful of the end-user.  It is clear that the information obtained will not be shared - this is very important! 
6. When the action was completed, I received a nice message from Heinz:
   "Your Thank You Card has been sent to a veteran or active service member. Because you shared your thanks, Heinz has donated $1 to Wounded Warrior Project®.*"
 
Great job by Heinz!   I look forward to seeing more QR implementations like this. heinz-qr-code-front
 
 
Mission: To honor and empower Wounded Warriors.
Vision: To foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded service members in our nation's history.
Purpose: To raise awareness and enlist the public's aid for the needs of injured service members.  To help injured service members aid and assist each other. To provide unique, direct programs and services to meet the needs of injured service members.