Create your own QR Code Only Merch Display

How QR Code-Only Merch Displays Are Revolutionizing Band Merch Sales

For as long as bands have sold merch, they’ve faced the same challenges: buying 100s of each design in bulk, only to sell out of popular sizes like L and XL while being left with stacks of less-desirable sizes. Worse yet, some designs just don’t resonate, forcing bands to discount and offload unsold stock—costing time, space, and money.

At MerchYeah, we’ve already solved this problem for online merch stores by eliminating the need for bulk ordering with on-demand printing. But what about merch sold at live shows? That’s where the innovative concept of a QR Code-Only Merch Display comes in.

We recently put this idea to the test at Evergreen Terrace’s 25th Anniversary show in Jacksonville, FL. Here’s why it worked, how bands can replicate it, and why we believe it’s the future of band merch.

What Is a QR Code-Only Merch Display?

A QR Code-Only Merch Display allows fans to browse and purchase merchandise by scanning QR codes that lead them directly to an online merch store. There’s no need to haul around boxes of inventory or worry about running out of sizes. Instead, each item is custom printed and shipped directly to fans’ doorsteps within 5-7 business days.

Unlike a traditional merch table, this setup:

Removes all of the logistical headaches.
Lets fans explore the full range of designs without feeling rushed.
Eliminates inventory waste by printing only what’s sold.

Why We Tried It

We’ve long wanted to bring this concept to life, inspired by the shift in the music industry from physical CDs to streaming services. This evolution feels like the natural next step for band merch. While some bands already use QR codes for payments, this takes it further by offering a completely digital merch experience.

The Evergreen Terrace show, with 10+ supporting acts, was the perfect testing ground. Not only did it give us access to a diverse crowd, but it also allowed smaller bands to see the concept in action.

How We Built Our DIY QR Code-Only Display

Creating the display was simple yet effective. Here’s what we used:

Table and cover: We purchased a 6-foot folding table($54 on Amazon) and a black canvas tablecloth($18 on Amazon) which served as the foundation.
Display Racks: Metal retail grid panel display racks served as our backdrop ($165 for 2 on Amazon)
Hardware: We used large black alligator paper clips (6 sets of 8 clips $1.25 ea. at our local Dollar Tree store) to showcase the shirts on the display racks.

Our signage:

We printed and laminated 6 QR codes that linked directly to Evergreen Terrace’s MerchYeah store.
We printed a large 20x16 poster explaining the process: “1) Scan the QR Code, 2) Place Your Order, 3) Items Are Printed & Shipped Direct to You.”
We also printed 4 smaller signs highlighting benefits like: “No more selling out of popular sizes” and “No more waiting in line.”
Download the signage we used here: Merch Table Signs

A little extra branded touch: We made a wood sign/art piece featuring the MerchYeah mascot for the top of our display and also added some festive Christmas lights for added flair.
Custom shirts just for the event: We printed a couple of shirts with QR codes on the backs that also lead directly to Evergreen Terrace's merch store.

Testing was super-simple: we set everything up to ensure the QR codes were easy to scan from various distances and angles.

How It Performed

The response was overwhelmingly positive. Fans loved the concept, repeatedly calling it “brilliant.” Here’s what stood out:

Fast and Easy Setup: From start to finish we were able to put up the entire display in just 30 minutes.
Fan-Friendly Experience: Without someone manning the table, fans felt more comfortable taking their time to explore the designs. They scanned QR codes directly from their phones and browsed at their own pace. (Amazingly cool to see it work so perfectly).
Post-Event Sales: Nearly as many sales came in the next day as during the show, suggesting fans revisited the store later.
Minimal Hassle: The band didn’t need to haul heavy boxes, worry about cash or card payments, or spend the entire night standing at the table.

The QR Code-Only setup was amazingly successful and drew significant attention and sales. It’s clear this model can work totally independently or even alongside your traditional merch set up as you get fans used to the idea.

Why Bands Should Try This

No More Guesswork: Eliminate the risk of over-ordering or running out of popular sizes.
Streamlined Setup: All you need is one sample shirt of each of your designs for the display—no heavy boxes required.
More Freedom: Free up your time to engage with fans, network, or simply enjoy the event. (not something we considered, but it made the event so much more fun)
Increased Accessibility: Fans who don’t want to carry merch around or wait in long lines can still make a purchase. (Fans absolutely loved this!)

How to Create Your Own QR Code-Only Merch Display

Set Up Your MerchYeah Store: Start by creating a free online store on MerchYeah and upload your designs.
Order Sample Items: Purchase one shirt for each design at base cost to display at your booth. (We recommend ordering size L for versatility.)
Generate QR Codes: Use free tools to create QR codes that link to your MerchYeah store or individual products.
Here's what we used: Adobe QR Code Creator Tool
Test Everything: Ensure QR codes are easy to scan and links are functional before the event.
Design Your Display: Use tables, racks, signage, and your own branding elements to create an eye-catching setup.
Engage Fans: Offer free stickers or promo items at your table to draw more attention.

A few things we'll totally do next time:

"Touch Me" signs: Visually, MerchYeah's printing is the best you'll ever see. People are dazzled by the designs, but we noticed they didn't often touch the garments. We will definitely be adding signs that say "touch me" or "feel the quality" signs or stickers near the shirts so people can realize for themselves how incredibly soft the prints feel.
A box or bowl with our stickers and trinkets: we had some FREE stickers set out on the table, but people did not take as many as we thought they would. Adding a bowl or box with a "take one" or "free stickers" would encourage people to snag a sticker for themselves.

The Future of Band Merch

We believe QR Code-Only Merch Displays are the next evolution of band merchandising. This model combines the ease of online sales with the visibility of a physical merch table, creating a win-win for both bands and fans.

Ready to simplify your merch setup and sell like never before?
Start your MerchYeah journey today and be part of the future of band merch.

Create your own QR Code Only Merch Display