#Japan #Toyota #AI Solution #HOUSEI #Sanyodo

HOUSEI's Innovative Solution for Sanyodo Bookstore

In an exciting development for retail innovation, HOUSEI Inc., a Tokyo-based firm specializing in AI and IT solutions, has introduced its groundbreaking cashless store solution at the Sanyodo Bookstore Umezutsu location in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture. This latest addition marks the 15th implementation of HOUSEI’s automated store technology in Sanyodo Bookstores, following the launch of a 24-hour smart store at the Yomogi branch in April 2024.

The integration of this technology aims to enhance efficiency and drive sales while also streamlining operations within the Sanyodo bookstores. The transition to automated services comes at a time when traditional bookstore hours have faced constraints, notably spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic.

New Operating Hours for Sanyodo Bookstore Umezutsu

Starting from April 28, 2025, the operating hours for the Sanyodo Bookstore Umezutsu will be as follows:

• - Regular (Staffed) Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• - Smart Unmanned Hours: 11:00 PM – 9:00 AM

This shift signifies a 24-hour operational capability, allowing customers to visit the bookstore at any time without the need for staff assistance.

Sanyodo's Vision for Smart Operations

The management at Sanyodo Bookstore has expressed enthusiasm about the implementation of smart unstaffed operations. They believe that this advancement will help the bookstore to break free from the trend of reduced operating hours brought on by the pandemic, allowing for an environment filled with excitement and anticipation. Customers are invited to enjoy new experiences and access book selections at any hour without constraints.

Sanyodo Bookstore currently operates 68 locations, 15 of which are utilizing HOUSEI’s innovative AI facial recognition system, WelcomID, to facilitate unstaffed operations. Besides Umezutsu and Yomogi, the other participating bookstores include lower-traffic locations, which have successfully adopted this technology.

Features of HOUSEI’s Unstaffed Store Solution

HOUSEI’s automated store solution leverages advanced AI and IT infrastructures to support labor-saving operations. This solution effectively addresses several contemporary challenges, including non-contact customer service and workforce shortages. Implemented solutions feature automatic door access via facial recognition technology, web-based booking services, and advanced surveillance systems, enabling a wide range of establishments—balancing bookstores, fitness centers, and beauty salons—to go fully unmanned.

One notable example of this technology in action is seen in Tokyo’s indoor golf practice facilities, where a complete unmanned operation is facilitated through member booking management services. Such advancements enhance convenience while also ensuring safety.

Moreover, HOUSEI is actively seeking partners for commercialization and construction support related to their solutions, inviting collaboration to broaden the impact of their technologies across diverse sectors.

For more details on HOUSEI's offerings, interested parties can visit their website: HOUSEI Unmanned Store Solutions.

Executive Insights

Housei and Sanyodo's presidents recently held a discussion, exploring the future of retail and the transformative power of unstaffed stores. Insights from this dialogue can be accessed here: Executive Interview.

Corporate Overviews:

• - Sanyodo Holdings Inc.

- Headquarters: 18-22 Shinkai-cho, Mizuho, Nagoya, Japan
- CEO: Kazuhiro Kato
- Website: Sanyodo Holdings
- Sanyodo Bookstore: Sanyodo Bookstore

• - HOUSEI Inc.

- Headquarters: 1-8 Tsukudocho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
- CEO: Yoshikazu Kan
- Website: HOUSEI

Through a commitment to fostering digital transformation, HOUSEI is not only innovating retail solutions but is also looking to engage with partners on a global scale for collaborative development and sales opportunities.