HOUSEI's Unmanned Store Solutions Transform 32 SANYODO Bookstores into Smart Retail

HOUSEI's Impact on Smart Retail

In an exciting development for the bookstore industry, HOUSEI Corporation, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has partnered with SANYODO Holdings to implement its cutting-edge unmanned store solutions across 32 SANYODO bookstores. This initiative aims to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and ultimately drive revenue growth for the stores. Starting from April 2024, the selected bookstores will be at the forefront of a retail revolution, becoming part of a modern retail experience designed to meet evolving consumer needs.

Expanding Accessibility with Technology

SANYODO bookstores, which operate a total of 67 locations, have adopted HOUSEI's AI facial recognition technology, WelcomID, allowing customers to enter stores seamlessly. The two bookstores initially implementing this technology are the Nagara store, located in Gifu City, and the Mizunami Central store in Mizunami City, Gifu Prefecture. By adopting this unmanned configuration, these stores will offer extended operational hours, catering to customers 24/7.

Nagara Store Operating Hours from March 9, 2026

- Regular hours (staffed): 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Smart unmanned hours: 9:00 PM – 2:00 AM

Mizunami Central Store Operating Hours from March 23, 2026

- Regular hours (staffed): 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Smart unmanned hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM, 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM

The implementation of the smart unmanned operation begins after SANYODO retailers faced challenges posed by reduced hours during the COVID-19 pandemic. They believe that this initiative will revitalize the customer shopping experience, providing excitement and an opportunity for people to discover new books without time constraints.

The Reaction from SANYODO

A representative from SANYODO expressed optimism about the shift toward smart unmanned operations. They expect that through this partnership, they can overcome the operational limitations experienced during the pandemic and offer a more engaging and accessible shopping environment that caters to the evolving preferences of customers.

Overview of SANYODO’s Smart Operations

Currently, 32 of SANYODO’s 67 bookstores are embracing this technology and have transitioned to smart unmanned operations. This includes fully automated 24-hour operations at certain locations such as the Yoshitake and Akinaka stores, facilitating easier access to customers around the clock. Furthermore, other stores will incorporate innovative unmanned opening and closing features, allowing smoother transitions of store operations without the need for direct staffing.

Locations Implementing Smart Unmanned Services

- 24-Hour Smart Stores: New, Yomogi, and others.
- Stores with Smart Closing: Ishikawa, Yorou, and more.
- Stores with Smart Opening & Closing: Seki East, and others.

ABOUT HOUSEI's Unmanned Store Solutions

HOUSEI’s unmanned store solutions make use of advanced AI and IT technologies to facilitate a wide range of business needs, from addressing staffing shortages to enabling non-contact customer interactions. This includes services like facial recognition for automated door unlock, web-based reservations, surveillance, and payment systems, effectively enhancing the store operations across various retail sectors, including bookstores, gyms, and second-hand shops.

For example, an indoor golf facility in Tokyo has become fully unmanned around the clock, utilizing similar technology to manage member reservations and allow access during specified hours.

Moreover, HOUSEI is actively inviting partners for collaboration on sales and implementation, helping to further the advancement of these technologies in retail.

For additional details about their offerings, visit HOUSEI’s Official Site.

Executive Insights

In conjunction with this announcement, both SANYODO and HOUSEI have published discussions featuring their CEOs. These insights reveal their vision and plans for future store openings employing smart unmanned operations. Read more about it on HOUSEI’s Insights.