Examining retailing sustainability in the QR code–enabled mobile payments context during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 has influenced customers' purchasing behavior, especially the acceptability of mobile payments based on quick response (QR) codes. Sustainability is key for retail to thrive. In this context, customer acceptance of QR code–enabled m-payments needs further improvement. This study examines the critical antecedents affecting QR code–enabled m-payments acceptance intention, with the aim of determining why customers must accept QR codes. The Mobile Technology Acceptance Model was modified, as we examined ease of use, usefulness, transaction convenience, transaction speed, attitudes, optimism, and personal innovativeness to investigate customers’ adoption of mobile shopping in grocery stores using questionnaire survey data of 351 respondents. Most constructs in the model influence shoppers’ intentions for accepting QR code–enabled m-payments. Consumers are more likely to use mobile shopping channels if the system is simple and easy to use. A validated model would be an invaluable guide for researchers during the creation and improvement of QR code–enabled m-payments studies.