HOUSEI Brings Unmanned Store Solutions to Sanyodo Bookstore
HOUSEI Corporation, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has announced the introduction of its unmanned store solution at the Sanyodo Bookstore in Nabari, Mie Prefecture. Sanyodo Bookstore, a subsidiary of Sanyodo Holdings located in Nagoya, has embraced this cutting-edge technology to innovate its retail operations. Starting April 2024, this implementation is part of a broader strategy to streamline bookstore management under the increasing trend of automated services.
As of now, Sanyodo Bookstore will manage a total of 19 outlets featuring
smart unmanned sales, aimed at increasing operational efficiency while reducing labor costs and possibly enhancing sales figures. The solution not only helps digitize the shopping experience but also caters to a 24-hour retail operation model, redefining traditional bookstore hours.
New Hours of Operation
Starting July 14, 2025, the operational hours for
Sanyodo Bookstore Nabari will be:
- - Traditional (Staffed) Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- - Smart Unmanned Hours: 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
This shift to unmanned operations allows the store to emerge from the pandemic's constraints that led to reduced hours. According to Sanyodo's statement, the smart unmanned sales model encourages a vibrant shopping atmosphere, inviting customers to explore new books anytime without time restrictions.
Overview of Smart Unmanned Sales at Sanyodo Bookstore
Currently,
Sanyodo Bookstore operates 68 locations, out of which 19 have successfully adopted HOUSEI's AI facial recognition solution,
WelcomID, to facilitate access during unmanned hours. The implementation includes:
- - 24-hour unmanned operation stores: New shop, Yomogi, Shimokueido, Toyokawa, Hekinan, Yamato, Hishino, Minokamo, Handa, Toki, Umetsubo, Takato.
- - Unmanned closing stores: Ishioka, Yoro, Obama, Ikukawa, Nakatsugawa, and the featured Nabari store.
- - Combined opening & closing: Seki East Store.
As customers enter through secure facial recognition doors, they can enjoy a seamless shopping experience that aligns with modern consumer expectations.
The Faces of HOUSEI’s Unmanned Store Solution
HOUSEI's unmanned store solution utilizes advanced AI and IT technologies to offer a comprehensive support system for retail operations. The aim is to tackle various challenges such as non-contact management and labor shortages. The services provided include face recognition access doors, web-based booking systems, surveillance services, and cashless payment solutions. These innovations go beyond bookstores, finding applications in gyms, spas, and numerous other sectors.
In addition, a
golf simulation facility in Tokyo has also adopted this unmanned system, managing member reservations and establishing access through secure door openings designated for booked times.
HOUSEI is actively seeking sales and construction partners to expand the adoption of its unmanned store technologies, showcasing a commitment to advancing digital transformation across Japan’s retail landscape. For further details, visit
HOUSEI's official site.
The presidents of HOUSEI and Sanyodo have engaged in discussions surrounding their partnership, offering insights into the future of unmanned retail, available for viewing at
HERE.
Company Profiles
- Headquarters: 18-22 Shin-kaicho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya
- President: Kazuhiro Kato
- Website:
Sanyodo Holdings
- Headquarters: 9th Floor, Kagurazaka AK Building, 1 Tsukuto-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
- President: Yoshikazu Kan
- Website:
HOUSEI
Through these strategic advancements, HOUSEI continues to be a pivotal partner in shaping the digital transformation landscape in various industries, promoting open innovation and collaborations with developers and sales agents.