#Japan #Tokyo #HOUSEI #Sanyodo #WelcomID

HOUSEI's Unmanned Store Solution at SANYODO Bookstores

HOUSEI Inc., known for its AI facial recognition solutions, recently announced an exciting development in the realm of retail technology. The company has begun expanding its “unmanned store solution” at SANYODO Bookstore, a subsidiary of SANYODO Holdings. This innovative initiative marks a significant advancement for the bookstore chain, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and meet the evolving demands of consumers.

SANYODO Bookstore, with locations in Komagane City, Nagano, and Owariasahi City, Aichi, is set to commence its smart unmanned operations starting in April 2024, bringing the total number of its locations adopting this technology to 26. Such a progressive approach aligns perfectly with the growing trend of automation in retail, especially in the wake of ongoing operational challenges sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Operating Hours for SANYODO Bookstores

To better inform customers, the specific operating hours for the affected stores are as follows:

• - Komagane Store:

- Regular (Staffed) Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Smart Unmanned Hours: 9:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Trading Card Section Hours:
- Weekdays: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Weekends and Holidays: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

• - Shiroyama Store:

- Regular (Staffed) Hours: 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Smart Unmanned Hours: 9:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Trading Card Section Hours:
- Weekdays: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Weekends and Holidays: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

This transition aims to capitalize on the potential for extended store hours while meeting the consumer's desire for accessibility, regardless of time constraints.

SANYODO Bookstore's Vision

A spokesperson from SANYODO commented on the significance of the “smart unmanned operations,” emphasizing a shift away from the reduced hours implemented during the pandemic. The company envisions creating an engaging and dynamic shopping environment, one that invites customers to explore literature at any hour, cultivating opportunities for new connections through the power of books. Furthermore, SANYODO plans to continue introducing more smart unmanned locations, expanding the convenience for its clientele.

Current Status and Unmanned Operations

As of now, 26 of the 68 SANYODO bookstores are transforming their operations under HOUSEI’s AI facial recognition system, known as WelcomID. The unmanned stores classified as operating 24 hours include:

• - Honshin
• - Yomogi
• - Shimokito
• - Toyokawa
• - Hekinan
• - Yamato
• - Hishino
• - Minokamo
• - Handa
• - Toki
• - Umetsubo
• - Takato

In addition, some stores will offer a blend of smart unmanned operations during specific hours and device usage, positioning SANYODO as a leader in embracing cutting-edge retail technology in Japan.

Overview of HOUSEI's Unmanned Store Solution

HOUSEI's unmanned store solution is a robust system adapted to meet the challenges of modern retailing, utilizing AI and IT technologies for streamlined operations. This innovative service aims to tackle several pressing issues, including contactless customer interaction, workforce optimization, and addressing the labor shortage. The solution combines various features such as facial recognition door unlocking, web-based member reservations, surveillance, and unmanned payment services—applicable across diverse industries including bookstores, gyms, and spas.

Further showcasing its effectiveness, HOUSEI has successfully implemented this in various platforms, including an indoor golf facility in Tokyo that operates on a completely unmanned basis, managing customer reservations and entry access seamlessly. Notably, HOUSEI is currently seeking partners for sales and construction related to this technology, encouraging collaboration across markets.

Company Profiles

SANYODO Holdings

• - Headquarters: Nagoya, Mizuho-ku, Shin kaimachi 18-22
• - Representative: Kazuhiro Kato, President
• - Website: SANYODO Holdings

HOUSEI Inc.

• - Headquarters: Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Tsukudo-cho 1-8, Kagurazaka AK Building 9F
• - Representative: Syoko Kan, President
• - Website: HOUSEI

As both companies enhance their joint efforts to configure a future-ready retail landscape, they are truly setting the stage for a revolution in consumer interaction within bookstores and beyond.