New innovations from Krones AG, Vacuum Barrier, Ryson International, MEI and more.

The biggest change to the retail environment in recent years isn’t something retailers have done; it’s the growth of shopper-driven mobile connectivity. Recent research indicates a large majority of consumers have used, or plan to use, quick response (QR) codes to get more information on products and access offers via their smartphones.

Columnist David Kolman recommends cell phone and electronic device safety tips when driving.

Starbucks Coffee Co., Seattle, announced that since the launch of its mobile payment technology in January, there have been 26 million mobile transactions to date. In the first nine weeks of the program, there were 3 million transactions, and in comparison for the nine-week period starting in October, there were 6 million transactions, demonstrating a significant jump in customer adoption and use.

 Quick-response (QR) codes might be a key way for brands to attract or retain customers, according to a new ScanLife study.