#Japan #Nebraska #Digitale Store #THE SUPER #Nabari

Transforming Retail with Technology: The Digitale Store

In a pioneering move within the Japanese retail landscape, Oakubo Foods has announced the integration of the cutting-edge automated sales solution, 'Digitale Store,' into their supermarket, THE SUPER, starting from May 1, 2025. This innovative technology promises to create a seamless hybrid shopping experience, combining both automated and human-operated services to enhance customer convenience and operating efficiency.

Background: Success in Trials

The journey of the 'Digitale Store' began with successful field trials launched by Nebraska, the solution’s provider, in March 2023 at Yamashita Bookstore in Setagaya. The pilot not only accomplished an impressive increase in sales but also managed to reduce operational expenses, exemplifying the synergy of technology and retail. The success of the initial trial led to the establishment of additional trial locations, including two more stores by November 2023 and March 2024, generating significant improvements in revenue due to extended operational hours and enhanced self-service facilities, including cashless checkout systems.

Addressing Retail Challenges

The launch of THE SUPER marks an essential expansion beyond bookstore environments to larger retail settings. The supermarket, located at 289 Umekogaoka Minami, Nabari City in Mie Prefecture, is set to operate 24/7, leveraging 'Digitale Store' to meet rising customer demands for late-night and early-morning shopping.

The 'Digitale Store' Solution

What exactly is the 'Digitale Store'? It is a versatile digital transformation solution aimed at achieving both profitability and customer experience enhancements.

Key Features:

1. Profitability: The solution optimizes labor costs through a blend of self-service and strategic human-operated hours. Utilizing LINE and QR codes for entry, the store can run unattended, greatly increasing revenue potential during non-traditional shopping hours.
2. Customer Experience: The extended hours ensure shoppers are no longer bound by conventional store hours. By harnessing customer data, Nebraska seeks to enable targeted marketing campaigns through LINE and web applications.
3. Flexibility: The system is designed for seamless application in new and existing stores at an affordable cost and is capable of alternating between fully unmanned and hybrid operations based on the time of day.

Shopping Experience at THE SUPER

To enter THE SUPER, customers will first need to add the store’s official LINE account by scanning a QR code displayed in-store. Upon successful registration, entry is granted automatically, and guests can enjoy a fully self-service check-out utilizing cashless payment systems. Additionally, they can track purchase history effortlessly via LINE, enriching the shopping experience further.

Future Prospects

Moving forward, Nebraska aims to champion sustainable revitalization of the retail sector through continual development and deployment of innovative digital solutions. The ultimate goal is to move beyond mere automation and explore more sophisticated retail experiences by integrating advanced technologies like machine learning into the retail environment.

Expanding Reach

Nebraska also has ambitious plans for expanding their mini-supermarkets into rural areas, aiming to mitigate barriers to access for the elderly population and provide essential services for late-night shoppers. This strategic move underscores a commitment to community support while addressing significant gaps in retail service delivery.

About Nebraska

Founded with a mission to innovate in the retail space, Nebraska offers cutting-edge digital solutions designed specifically for retailers. For more information, visit their website at Nebraska Tech or contact them at info@nebraska-tech.co.jp.

As THE SUPER welcomes this revolutionary solution, it sets a precedent for future retail environments, showcasing how technology can effectively respond to evolving consumer needs.