#Japan #Tokyo #HOUSEI #TSUTAYA #WelcomID

HOUSEI's Innovative Facial Recognition System in TSUTAYA Stores

In a significant advancement for retail technology, HOUSEI Inc., a Tokyo-based tech company specializing in AI and digital transformation solutions, has deployed its facial recognition system named WelcomID in various TSUTAYA stores operated by NIC Retail and Imagine Hakuyo. This implementation marks a pivotal step towards enhancing operational efficiency and enabling 24-hour store functionality.

Overview of the Implementation

As of January 2026, several TSUTAYA locations have successfully integrated WelcomID through Nippon Publishing's operational solution, Hontasu. The locations currently utilizing this cutting-edge technology include:

• - TSUTAYA JR Higashi-Tokorozawa Station
• - TSUTAYA Kamagaya
• - TSUTAYA Takeo
• - TSUTAYA Imagine Hakuyo Sasagawa

With the initial success of this integration, NIC Retail is set to roll out WelcomID in additional TSUTAYA locations in the near future, further expanding the use of facial recognition technology in retail environments.

About the Hontasu Solution

Hontasu is designed to optimize store operations by extending operating hours, enhancing sales, and reducing costs through automation and resource efficiency. This solution provides flexibility for retail operations by allowing various configurations, such as:

• - Fully automated stores
• - Hybrid operations (both staffed and unstaffed)
• - Reduction of staffed hours
• - 24-hour operation capability

Retailers can tailor the system to meet their specific needs by combining different features such as entry management systems, unmanned customer support tools, remote customer service, and security and facility management systems. For more information on this innovative solution, visit Hontasu.

HOUSEI's Facial Recognition Technology

WelcomID (more details at HOUSEI) stands out for its high-precision identity verification capabilities. It has been successfully implemented in various settings, including indoor golf simulations, retail environments, and bookstores. The adoption of this facial recognition technology in Hontasu further enhances its applicability across unstaffed and streamlined retail operations.

Company Profiles

• - Nippon Publishing Co., Ltd.

Address: 4-3 Kanda Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
CEO: Ken Togashi
Business: Publishing distribution and bookstore support
Website: Nippan

• - NIC Retail Co., Ltd.

Address: 4-3 Kanda Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
CEO: Junya Kondo
Business: Operation of bookstores, TSUTAYA, and beauty services
Website: NIC Retail

• - Imagine Hakuyo Co., Ltd.

Address: 3-5, Shiro-cho, Kita-ku, Nagoya, Aichi
CEO: Junya Kondo
Business: Operation of bookstores, TSUTAYA, and beauty services
Website: Imagine Hakuyo

• - HOUSEI Inc.

Address: 1-8 Tsukudome-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
CEO: Kanko Kan
Business: Information systems and technology solutions
Website: HOUSEI

Conclusion

HOUSEI's commitment to driving digital transformation in Japan is evident through its diversified focus on media, professional services, product development, IT solutions, and logistics. The company actively seeks partners for open innovation, including opportunities for joint development and sales agency participation. Through these advancements, HOUSEI aims to elevate the standard of retail operations through cutting-edge technology like WelcomID.