#Japan #Tokyo #HOUSEI #Sanyodo #Unattended Store

HOUSEI Collaborates with Sanyodo Bookstore on Unattended Store Solutions

HOUSEI Inc., based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, and known for its innovative AI facial recognition technologies, is excited to announce the continued provision of its unattended store solutions to Sanyodo Bookstore, a subsidiary of Sanyodo Holdings. This partnership specifically extends to the Sanyodo Bookstore locations in Kaku-yama, Nisshin City, and Ho-tsuki, Mizuho City.

Starting from April 2024, Sanyodo Bookstore plans to introduce smart unmanned operations across 21 stores. This new approach is anticipated to significantly streamline bookstore management, enhance efficiency, and ultimately contribute to revenue growth. This shift denotes a transformative era for Sanyodo Bookstore as it integrates advanced technology into its operations.

New Operating Hours

For visitors planning a trip to the Kaku-yama store post-August 4, 2025, the operating hours will be as follows:

• - Regular (Staffed) Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• - Smart Unmanned Hours: 9:00 PM – 2:00 AM

(Closed with unmanned operations)

At the Ho-tsuki store, effective from August 25, 2025, the hours will be:

• - Regular (Staffed) Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• - Smart Unmanned Hours: 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM

(Closed with unmanned operations)

These new hours aim to break away from the shortened operating hours that have persisted during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing exciting opportunities for customers to discover new books at any time of day.

Sanyodo Bookstore’s Perspective

A representative from Sanyodo Bookstore expressed excitement about the “Smart Unmanned Operations,” emphasizing that this initiative will create an engaging and thrilling environment for their customers. The goal is to foster a space where customers can enjoy exploring their next great find without the constraints of traditional store hours.

Furthermore, Sanyodo Bookstore plans to open more locations that utilize the smart unmanned operations, continuing to innovate within the retail book sector.

Current Status of Smart Unmanned Operations

Currently, Sanyodo Bookstore operates 68 locations, 21 of which have implemented HOUSEI's “WelcomID” AI facial recognition system for smart unmanned operations. Among these, some stores operate 24 hours, while others function with unmanned closure during certain hours.

Fully Unmanned 24-Hour Stores:

• - Shin Shop
• - Yomogi Shop
• - Shimokoudo Shop
• - Toyokawa Shop
• - Hekinan Shop
• - Yamato Shop
• - Hishino Shop
• - Minokamo Shop
• - Handa Shop
• - Toki Shop
• - Umezuka Shop
• - Takato Shop

Unmanned Close Operations:

• - Ishioka Shop
• - Yoro Shop
• - Obama Shop
• - Ikukawa Shop
• - Nakatsugawa Shop
• - Nabari Shop
• - Kaku-yama Shop
• - Ho-tsuki Shop

Smart Unmanned Opening & Closing:

• - Seki Higashi Shop

What is HOUSEI's Unattended Store Solution?

HOUSEI’s unattended store solution leverages AI and IT to facilitate streamlined retail operations. It addresses various industry challenges such as face-to-face contact reduction, work style reform, and labor shortages. The solution encompasses facial recognition-operated doors, web reservation services, surveillance services, and cashless payment solutions, making it adaptable for various sectors including bookstores, gyms, and salons.

For instance, a fully automated indoor golf practice facility in Tokyo offers a member booking management service alongside entrances that only unlock during booked time slots, showcasing the practicality and effectiveness of this solution.

HOUSEI is currently seeking sales and construction partners to expand the reach and efficacy of its unattended store solution. Interested parties can find more details on their official website.

Leadership Discussion

For deeper insights, HOUSEI and Sanyodo’s executive directors engaged in a dialogue, which can be found on their insight page.

Company Profiles

Sanyodo Holdings
Location: 18-22 Shin-kai-cho, Mizuho City, Nagoya
CEO: Kazuhiro Kato
Website: Sanyodo Holdings
Bookstore: Sanyodo Bookstore

HOUSEI Inc.
Location: 1-8 Tsukudo-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Kagurazaka AK Bldg. 9F
CEO: Sho-kun Kan
Website: HOUSEI
Unmanned Store: WelcomID

HOUSEI aims to drive digital transformation in Japan through its various business sectors including media services, professional services, product development, and overseas IT initiatives. The company is committed to open innovation, seeking partners for joint development and sales.