Determinants of Adoption, Behavioral Intention, and Actual Usage of QR Code Payment Systems Among Retail-Micro Businesses in the City of Batac, Philippines

Abstract

This study examined the determinants of adoption, behavioral intention, and actual usage of digital Quick Response (QR) code payment systems among retail-micro enterprises in the City of Batac, Philippines. Anchored on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory, and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2), the study categorized influencing factors into technological, economic/financial, and external dimensions. A quantitative descriptive research design was employed, with data collected from 318 retail-micro business owners using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistical tools, particularly mean scores, were used to analyze the data.

The findings revealed that the determinants of adoption were generally moderate, indicating that respondents were receptive but not strongly influenced to adopt QR code payment systems. Technological factors obtained the highest mean, suggesting that ease of use, usefulness, and compatibility were not major barriers. However, economic/financial factors emerged as key constraints due to cost concerns and uncertainty regarding financial benefits. External factors were also moderately favorable, although customer demand remained insufficient to drive adoption.

Behavioral intention was moderate, reflecting openness to adopting QR code payments in the future. In contrast, actual usage was low, indicating that QR code payment systems were only occasionally used and not yet integrated into routine business operations. This highlights a significant intention–behavior gap among retail-micro businesses.

The study concludes that while retail-micro businesses demonstrate readiness to adopt QR code payment systems, economic concerns and limited customer demand hinder actual usage. The findings provide a basis for developing targeted strategies, including financial support mechanisms, awareness programs, and customer adoption initiatives, to enhance digital payment adoption and promote financial inclusion at the local level.