Abstract: A system and method are provided for promoting customer traffic. A promotional unit is provided having audio messages stored in its memory. At least one audio message is associated with a plurality, or range, of selected bar encoded indicia. The promotional unit audibly outputs the stored audio message associated with a particular indicia when that encoded indicia is scanned and decoded by the promotional unit. Means are provided for associating each audio message with a range of indicia identified by a starting indicia and an ending indicia. The system is adapted for editing the audio messages and providing corrective prompts for known fault conditions. The unit is adapted to employ musical audio messages and a plurality of scanner types.