#Japan #Nagoya #HOUSEI #Sanyodo #Unmanned Store

Expansion of Unmanned Store Solutions by HOUSEI

In an exciting development for the retail landscape, HOUSEI Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has announced the expansion of its unmanned store solutions to 23 branches of SANYODO Bookstore. This initiative reflects a growing trend toward automation and efficiency in retail operations. SANYODO Bookstore is a subsidiary of SANYODO Holdings, based in Nagoya, and the recent implementation includes the New Shinkaibashi store in Nagoya and the New Sekin store in Seki City, Gifu Prefecture.

Effective from April 2024, SANYODO Bookstore aims to launch smart unmanned operations across these stores, marking a significant step towards optimizing bookstore management. With the integration of AI face recognition technology and advanced IT solutions, HOUSEI's unmanned store offerings promise to enhance labor efficiency while potentially boosting revenue streams.

Operating Hours for Unmanned Bookstores

SANYODO Bookstore New Shinkaibashi

• - Regular Hours (Manned): 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
• - Smart Unmanned Hours: 11:00 PM - 2:00 AM

- Unmanned Closing
- Trading Card Area: Weekdays 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Weekends 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Surugaya Area: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Buyback until 9:00 PM)

SANYODO Bookstore New Sekin

• - Regular Hours (Manned): 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• - Smart Unmanned Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM, 9:00 PM - 12:00 AM

- Unmanned Opening & Closing
- Trading Card Area: Weekdays 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Weekends 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

SANYODO's Vision for Smart Unmanned Operations

SANYODO Bookstore has expressed optimism regarding the smart unmanned operations model. A company representative stated that this initiative aims to move past the trends of reduced operating hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and seeks to create a vibrant space that encourages customers to explore new titles at any time of day or night. More smart unmanned locations are planned for future openings, highlighting the company's commitment to innovation in the evolving retail environment.

Current Status of Smart Unmanned Operations at SANYODO

As of now, SANYODO Bookstore operates a total of 68 locations, with 23 stores implementing HOUSEI's AI face recognition solution, WelcomID. This strategic partnership facilitates:

• - 24-Hour Unmanned Operations at stores like New Shinkaibashi, Yomogi, and others.
• - Unmanned Closing at locations including Ishioka and Yoro.
• - Unmanned Opening and Closing at stores such as Sekikito and New Sekin.

These advancements highlight a shift towards innovative retail solutions, with HOUSEI's technology at the forefront of this transformation.

HOUSEI's Unmanned Store Solutions Explained

HOUSEI's unmanned store solutions leverage AI and IT technologies to address various challenges in retail management, including labor shortages and contactless customer service. The offerings include automated facial recognition door unlocking services, web-based member reservation systems, surveillance services, and cashless payment solutions. These technologies are applicable across various industries, expanding beyond bookstores to gyms and esthetics.

In Tokyo, for instance, the indoor practice golf facility has successfully deployed a fully unmanned operation by integrating member management services and access control during pre-scheduled times. HOUSEI continues to seek partnerships for sales and construction related to their solutions, emphasizing open innovation as a core of their business strategy.

More details can be found on HOUSEI's website.

Insights from the Leadership

For those interested in the strategic vision behind these initiatives, an exclusive discussion featuring the CEOs of both SANYODO and HOUSEI is available on the HOUSEI website. This dialogue sheds light on the future of retail and technology integration.

Company Profiles

SANYODO Holdings

• - Headquarters: 18-22 Shinkaicho, Mizuho City, Nagoya
• - CEO: Kazuhiro Kato
• - SANYODO Holdings Website

HOUSEI Co., Ltd.

• - Headquarters: 1-8 Tsukudotocho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• - CEO: Yoshikazu Kan
• - HOUSEI Website

Both companies are poised to play a pivotal role in the ongoing digitization and modernization of the retail sector in Japan, promoting a seamless shopping experience for consumers.