#Japan #Tokyo #HOUSEI #Sanyodo #WelcomID

HOUSEI's Smart Unmanned Store Solution

HOUSEI Corporation, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has recently announced the implementation of its state-of-the-art unmanned store solution at Sanyodo Bookstore, a subsidiary of Sanyodo Holdings based in Nagoya. This transformation includes the Sanyodo Bookstore locations in Shiratsuka (Mie) and Konan (Aichi), marking a significant advancement in operational efficiency and customer experience.

Starting in April 2024, Sanyodo Bookstore will begin smart unmanned operations in an impressive 36 out of its 66 stores by June 29, 2026. This shift is expected to streamline store management while boosting sales, responding to the evolving retail landscape, and consumer needs post-pandemic.

New Operation Hours

For the Sanyodo Bookstore Shiratsuka location, the new hours from June 8, 2026, will be:

• - Standard Operating Hours (Staffed): 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• - Smart Unmanned Hours: 9:00 PM to Midnight

At the Sanyodo Bookstore Konan location, effective June 29, 2026:

• - Standard Operating Hours (Staffed): 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• - Smart Unmanned Hours: 9:00 PM to Midnight

These adjustments are aimed at revitalizing store visits by allowing customers to shop at their convenience, fostering an exciting and spontaneous environment for all book lovers.

Sanyodo's Vision

Sanyodo Bookstore has expressed its excitement about the smart unmanned operations, stating that this new business model will help them move away from the persistent trend of reduced operating hours witnessed during the pandemic. The company aims to create a space filled with wonder and an opportunity for customers to discover new stories without the constraints of time. Furthermore, they plan to continue expanding their smart unmanned operations in the future.

Current Deployment of Smart Unmanned Stores

As of now, 36 Sanyodo bookstores have successfully integrated HOUSEI's AI face recognition solution, WelcomID, enabling them to function as smart unmanned stores. Some of the locations operating 24 hours include:

• - Hon-shin, Yomogi, Shimo Keito, Toyokawa, Hekinan, Yamato, Hishino, Minokamo, Handa, Toki, Umetsu, Takato, and Motsu.

Other stores operate under different formats of smart unmanned service, either being fully unmanned or only closed for unmanned operations during certain hours.

Understanding HOUSEI's Unmanned Store Solution

HOUSEI's unmanned store solution utilizes cutting-edge AI and IT technologies to assist businesses in reducing operational costs through innovative store management methods. This initiative aims to address various challenges, such as non-contact customer service, workforce reform, and alleviating labor shortages.

The services include automatic facial recognition door unlocking, web member reservation services, surveillance, and unmanned payment options. The solution has already been adopted in various sectors such as bookstores, gyms, and thrift shops.

One notable implementation includes a fully automated indoor golf facility in Tokyo, which allows for complete unmanned operation by managing member reservations and unlocking door access at specified times. Currently, HOUSEI is looking for partners in sales and construction to further extend this solution.

For more information, you can visit the HOUSEI website for more details on its products and offerings.

Company Overview

Sanyodo Holdings

• - Headquarters: 18-22 Shinakai-cho, Mizuho, Nagoya
• - CEO: Kazuhiro Kato
• - Website

Sanyodo Bookstore

HOUSEI Corporation

• - Headquarters: 2-2-1 Kanda Nishikicho, Chiyoda, Tokyo, inside KANDA SQUARE WeWork, 11th floor
• - CEO: Jun Tanegawa
• - Website

WelcomID Unmanned Store

HOUSEI is committed to becoming a partner in achieving AX (Advanced Experience), focusing on media, professional services, product development, and logistics for the Japanese market.