#Japan #Tokyo #Face Records #FTF Inc. #Record Valuation

Transforming the Vinyl Scene: Face Records’ Commitment to Expert Valuation Training

In an age where digital media often overshadows physical formats, Face Records, a prominent vinyl record store operated by FTF Inc. in Tokyo, is on a mission to not only preserve but enhance the art of record valuation. The company regularly conducts training sessions aimed at improving the quality of its record purchase services and fostering employee development. This initiative focuses on standardizing skill sets to boost customer satisfaction and nurturing personnel, ultimately reinforcing the value the brand brings to both the local and global music community.

The Importance of Knowledge and System Efficiency

To successfully operate in the used record market, two key elements must be in place: 1) deep knowledge of records, and 2) efficient operation of product management systems. Without both, high-quality purchasing and selling services cannot prevail.

The value of analog records fluctuates significantly based on production country, age, pressing processes, and shifts in market demand. Accurate valuation requires extensive knowledge, not only about various music genres but also about production specifications across different countries and the evolution of labels. Unfortunately, few individuals possess this comprehensive understanding, limiting the pool of on-demand, capable staff in the field.

In response, Face Records emphasizes creating a vibrant educational environment where record-related knowledge can be passed on, allowing employees to grow and develop in their roles. On the other hand, managing a product inventory system for used records is complex, as the same title or catalog number can vary in value based on its production year or country. Thus, it is essential to handle these variations as distinct products in the system. As the precision of the system increases, so does the data volume and complexity, which exceeds the capabilities of most off-the-shelf software or cloud services. Hence, FTF develops and optimizes its proprietary systems to meet these demands. Staff must also undergo a period of training to adeptly navigate this system, underlining the necessity for continuous learning.

That’s why Face Records is dedicated to cultivating talent, accumulating knowledge and experience as invaluable know-how. By leveraging their longstanding proficiency in record appraisal and an advanced, self-developed product management system, they aim to achieve a balance of “trusted appraisal power” and an environment where everyone can thrive.

Training Initiatives

Practical Training on Valuation by Pressing Country and Year

Participants engage in hands-on practice by comparing details such as labels and engravings, honing their skills in accurate appraisal based on country and year of production. For instance, recognizing the differences between a Japanese reissue from 1977 and the original American pressing from 1956 offers invaluable insights.

Case Studies for Challenging Record Valuations

To elevate collective skills within the team, case studies on challenging records are conducted, revealing appraisal standards to all team members. When faced with difficult-to-identify records, employees can turn to the chat-based groupware where company experts provide support and share insights to build a knowledge repository.

Optimizing System Input Training

Training focuses on standardizing titles and variations in terminology to present an easily understandable product catalog to customers, ensuring a coherent shopping experience at Face Records.

Through these training programs, Face Records aims to eliminate knowledge gaps among staff while enhancing both the speed and accuracy of appraisals. Looking ahead, they plan to implement an objective evaluation system to assess the knowledge and skills acquired during these training sessions. The goal is to establish an incentive structure that rewards staff based on the profitability of purchased materials, ultimately contributing to increased employee motivation and skill enhancement in the burgeoning market of record appraisers.

Voices from Participants

After attending the training, participants shared valuable feedback:

• - “I gained a better understanding of differences by country and era and look forward to exploring imported records more.”
• - “I learned characteristics outside of American pressings for the first time, which I can apply in future appraisals.”
• - “The structured learning filled in gaps I had, improving my input and appraisal accuracy.”
• - “The organized specs by country and era deepened my knowledge and boosted my confidence.”

As Face Records continues to implement these training initiatives, they are focused on creating an environment that further enhances staff appraisal skills and system comprehension.

Cultivating a Passion for Records

FTF Inc. champions the philosophy of “MUSIC GO ROUND,” which emphasizes the cyclical nature of music culture as it pertains to employee training. Regardless of prior expertise, everyone is encouraged to learn, grow, and thrive in a collaborative environment. Every staff member at Face Records is seen as a custodian of music culture, tasked with passing its values down to future generations through ongoing professional development programs.

The Intricacies of Record Appraisal and Its Appeal in the Workforce

Through daily learning and hands-on valuation experiences, employees occasionally encounter unexpectedly rare records, enhancing the allure of the appraisal job. An example is the rare album "Ceremony - Buddha Meets Rock," produced in 1971 by the Japanese rock band People. This unique work, which merges elements of traditional Buddhist chanting with jazz rock and psychedelic sounds, has recently gained recognition among hip-hop artists and music enthusiasts alike. The limited original pressings make it a valuable collectible, drawing customers from afar to Face Records to experience its historic significance.

These encounters with rare gems not only deepen the appreciation for record valuation but also connect employees with the richness of record culture, embodying the true allure and essence of appraisal work.

Strengthening Trust in Valuation Practices

Face Records operates under the belief that “every record has value.” By leveraging their expertise cultivated through extensive training, they conduct highly specialized appraisals to uncover just valuations. Continuous staff skill enhancement through in-house training is integral to this process. Their diverse purchasing services include in-store, mail-in, or on-site evaluations, all tailored to meet customer needs. Dedicated appraisal professionals meticulously assess each record, ensuring that cherished family heirlooms are passed on to inspire future generations of music lovers. For those considering organizing or selling their records, Face Records invites inquiries with open arms.

Company Overview

• - Company Name: FTF Inc.
• - Location: 1-4-9 Shoto, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Representative: Shun Tanaka, CEO
• - Business Scope:

- Buying and selling used records, CDs, books, and audio equipment
- Operating the analog record specialty store “Face Records” and their EC site
- Managing the dedicated purchase platform