#Japan #Tokyo #HOUSEI #WelcomID #Nippon Publishing

HOUSEI's Facial Recognition Technology in Retail

In a significant move to streamline retail operations, HOUSEI Inc., an AI and digital transformation (DX) solution provider based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, announces the integration of its facial recognition system, WelcomID, into the management solution 'Hontasu' offered by Nippon Publishing Co., Ltd. (Nippon), headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo. This collaboration aims to enhance store entry management with advanced facial recognition, ultimately supporting a more secure and efficient operation for unmanned or low-staff stores.

Overview of WelcomID

WelcomID is HOUSEI's state-of-the-art facial recognition solution that allows for precise identification of individuals. It has been successfully implemented in various settings, including indoor golf simulation facilities, retail stores, and bookstores. The adoption of WelcomID into Hontasu is expected to foster further integration into bookstores and retail establishments pursuing automation and efficiency.

Background and Future Prospects

The decline in the number of bookstores nationwide has emerged as a pressing social issue in Japan. In response, Nippon is committed to developing innovative business models for sustainable bookstore management. Hontasu is designed to address challenges faced by bookstores and retail outlets, including rising labor costs and a shortage of successors.

By enhancing its service offerings within Hontasu, Nippon recognized the need for effective entry management solutions tailored to unmanned stores, leading to the decision to implement HOUSEI's AI facial recognition system. Moving forward, both companies are prepared to adapt flexibly to the management challenges posed to retailers and aim for broader adoption and expansion in stores, particularly bookstores and other retail venues.

About the Hontasu Retail Management Solution

The Hontasu retail management solution aims to create new sales opportunities through extended operating hours while reducing costs via automation and staffing minimization. Businesses can select from multiple service options to fit their specific needs, including:

• - Complete Unmanned Operations
• - Hybrid Human-Unmanned Solutions
• - Reduction of Staffed Operation Hours
• - 24/7 Operations

This flexible structure allows stores to incorporate various elements like entry management systems, unmanned customer service tools, remote consultation services, and security and facility control options. The menu of available services is expected to expand in the near future.

Visit the official Hontasu site for more information: Hontasu Website

Example of Service Offerings in Hontasu

Company Profiles

Nippon Publishing Co., Ltd.

• - Location: 4-3 Kanda Surugadai, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - CEO: Takanori Togashi
• - Business: Publishing distribution, bookstore support, etc.
• - Website: Nippon Publishing

HOUSEI Inc.

• - Headquarters: 1-8 Tsukudacho, Kagurazaka AK Building 9F, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• - CEO: Shoji Kan
• - Business: Information systems
• - Website: HOUSEI

As a partner in realizing digital transformation, HOUSEI stands out with its four primary pillars: media business, professional services, product development, and overseas IT operations. The company actively engages in open innovation and is seeking partners for joint development and sales agency opportunities.