#Japan #Tokyo #HOUSEI #Sanyodo #WelcomID

HOUSEI Partners with Sanyodo Bookstores for Smart Unmanned Stores

HOUSEI Corporation, renowned for its AI facial recognition solutions, has announced an exciting partnership with Sanyodo Bookstore, a subsidiary of Sanyodo Holdings. The collaboration aims to introduce HOUSEI's innovative "unmanned store solution" to Sanyodo Bookstore locations in Japan. Starting in April 2024, this initiative will enable 29 out of 68 Sanyodo locations to operate with smart unmanned services, advancing efficiency and boosting sales in the retail sector.

Expanding Unmanned Operations

The unveiling of smart unmanned operations signals a major evolution for Sanyodo Bookstores, particularly at their Kakamigahara Store in Gifu and the Omi Hachiman Store in Shiga. From January 12, 2026, the Kakamigahara Store will operate both staffed hours from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM and unmanned hours from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM and 9:00 PM to 12:00 AM. Meanwhile, the Omi Hachiman Store will feature operations from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM for staffed hours, transitioning to unmanned hours from 9:00 PM to midnight.

Embracing the Future

A spokesperson from Sanyodo Bookstore expressed excitement about the "smart unmanned operations," noting that this model offers customers the ability to visit the stores 24/7, creating a more vibrant atmosphere while fostering new encounters with literature. The goal is to move past the reduced operating hours that emerged during the pandemic and re-establish a full-fledged bookstore experience.

As of now, 29 Sanyodo Bookstores are equipped with HOUSEI's cutting-edge AI facial recognition solution, known as "WelcomID." The following store categories are designated under this smart model:

• - 24-hour unmanned operations: Stores including Shimoeido, Toyokawa, and more.
• - Unmanned closing hours: Stores like Ishioka and Yoro amongst others.
• - Unmanned opening and closing: Notably, the Kakamigahara Store on top of Seki Higashi and others.

Highlighting HOUSEI's Unmanned Store Solutions

HOUSEI's "unmanned store solution" leverages AI and IT advancements to streamline retail operations, addressing labor shortages, enhancing efficiency, and transforming customer engagement. Their approach includes features such as facial recognition for automatic door unlocking, web member reservation services, monitoring systems, and cashless payment options. This technology is successfully being applied across various industries, including bookstores, gyms, and thrift shops.

For example, a golf simulation facility in Tokyo utilizes HOUSEI's technology to manage member reservations and operate solely during booked time slots, ensuring a completely unmanned environment around the clock. Currently, HOUSEI is seeking sales partners and construction collaborators for this innovative solution. Detailed information can be found on their website: HOUSEI Unmanned Solutions.

Insights from Leadership

An exclusive dialogue between the CEOs of Sanyodo and HOUSEI has been documented, shedding light on their collaboration and vision for the future of retail. This highlights the strategic partnership and commitment to innovative service delivery in the post-pandemic era. You can read the full exchange here: Top Interview.

Company Backgrounds

Sanyodo Holdings

• - Headquarters: 18-22 Shinkai-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya City
• - CEO: Kazuhiro Kato
• - Website: Sanyodo Holdings

HOUSEI Corporation

• - Headquarters: 1-8 Tsukudo-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
• - CEO: Shoko Kan
• - Website: HOUSEI

With a bold vision for Digital Transformation (DX), HOUSEI is committed to being a partner in this transformative journey, focusing on media, professional services, product development, logistics, and international IT ventures. They are also actively pursuing open innovation through strategic partnerships and joint developments.