#Japan #Tokyo #Gourica Marketing #Supermarket Innovations #Tech Strategies

Exploring Innovations in U.S. Supermarkets

On October 8, Gourica Marketing, a Tokyo-based company led by Kenzo Okamoto, will host a webinar titled "Insights into U.S. Supermarkets: Innovations and Technology Strategies from Major Cities." The event will feature guest speaker Noboru Gunji, an expert from the Company’s Institute of ICT Utilization in Retail Stores.

This informative webinar is designed to share direct insights from visits made to 24 supermarkets located in Kansas City and Los Angeles, two pivotal areas in the U.S. Participants will discover practical lessons for the Japanese retail sector, focusing on how U.S. supermarkets have responded to common challenges such as rising costs, labor shortages, and the push for digital transformation (DX).

Gunji will share his firsthand experiences, utilizing photographs and videos to illustrate the strategies that have been effective in these markets. This is a unique opportunity to learn not just about the innovations but also about the adaptability of these establishments in challenging economic environments.

What Attendees Will Learn

In the webinar, attendees can expect to uncover:

1. Unique Features of Successful Supermarkets:

• - Hy-Vee: Recognized as one of the largest employee-owned chains in the Midwest, Hy-Vee is noted for its innovative store displays and customer engagement.
• - Sprouts Farmers Market: An organic-focused chain that has experienced rapid growth by emphasizing fresh produce and natural foods.
• - Stater Bros. Markets: A community-centered supermarket competing effectively in Southern California through quality service.
• - Trader Joe's: Offers a unique shopping experience with 80% of its products under its private label, balancing uniqueness and profitability effectively.

2. Cutting-Edge Technologies in Use:

• - Amazon Fresh: Learn about the strategic shift from Just Walk Out technology to the Dash Cart system, a significant move in retail tech.
• - Price Chopper: A family-owned chain in the Midwest adopting the latest smart cart technologies.
• - Whole Foods Market: Insights into transformations following its acquisition by Amazon.

3. Distinctive Strategies in Different Markets:

• - Dollar General/DG Market: Discover how low-price strategies are achieved through efficient operations and small-format stores.
• - Asian Grocery Distribution: Companies like H Mart, Tokyo Central, and MITSUWA demonstrate effective niche marketing in ethnic foods.
• - Erewhon: A grocery store catering to affluent customers, focusing on premium organic products—a look into market segmentation and successful targeting.

Event Details

• - Date: October 8, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.
• - Format: Online via Zoom. Links will be sent to registered attendees.
• - Cost: Free with pre-registration required. Note that participants from competing businesses are kindly requested not to attend.

Registration

To secure a spot, register here.

The webinar promises to deliver valuable insights into the operational strategies of U.S. supermarkets and how these can serve as a model for Japanese retailers facing similar challenges. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of cutting-edge practices in the retail sector!

About the Speakers

Noboru Gunji:
Currently serves as the representative at the Institute of ICT Utilization in Retail Stores. Gunji has been involved in multiple facets of retail, including operations at major companies such as Kokokara Fine, where he led IT reform projects and e-commerce initiatives. His expertise lies in enhancing customer experiences through the integration of IT in retail.

Takaaki Haneda:
The Director of the Go Insight Division at Gourica Marketing. Haneda has a background in solution sales from a major systems integrator, followed by a transition to independent consultancy. His work involves providing consulting services that improve business efficiencies and return on investment through data analysis in the retail sector.

About Gourica Marketing, Inc.

Founded in Shibuya, Tokyo, Gourica Marketing aims to deliver cutting-edge marketing solutions, specializing in optimizing the supply chain for promotional materials and enhancing operational efficiencies for businesses. The company has achieved MBO in 2023, gaining independence from Konica Minolta Group, and is committed to driving innovation through technology in retail.

To learn more about their initiatives, visit Gourica Marketing.