#Japan #LINE #Sano #SanoPremiumOutlet #ConnectedSpaceShare

Enhancing the Dining Experience at Sano Premium Outlet

In a groundbreaking initiative, It’s Communications Inc. and Mitsubishi Estate Simon Co., Ltd. have partnered to implement a new reservation system at the Sano Premium Outlet’s food court in Tochigi, Japan. Starting from August 2, 2025, this pilot program aims to provide a seamless dining experience for customers, particularly during peak hours. Known as the Connected Space Share, this system utilizes the popular messaging app LINE to enable users to reserve and pay for seats without the need for additional applications.

Addressing Common Challenges

Dining at crowded outlets can be challenging, particularly when groups face wait times for seating. Customers often experience frustration when their parties are split up due to unavailable seating, leading to a negative experience. To remedy these issues, the Connected Space Share system allows users to pre-book designated seats at the food court, significantly enhancing convenience during busy periods. Moreover, this improvement is invaluable for visitors from outside the area, allowing them to maximize their time for shopping and leisure.

How the System Works

The Connected Space Share system enables users to effortlessly reserve tables through their mobile devices. By simply adding the Sano Premium Outlet’s LINE account, customers can access the seating reservation system. There’s no need for extra app downloads, making it user-friendly. Customers can choose from various seating options, including indoor sofa seating and newly introduced outdoor terrace seating that accommodates visitors with pets.

Experimental Details and Seat Options

The pilot will run in two phases, carefully assessing the system's effectiveness:

• - Phase A: Indoor sofa seating from August 2 to August 31, 2025, featuring 6 tables with a capacity of 32 seats.
• - Phase B: Outdoor terrace seats available from September 6 to November 30, 2025, also offering 8 tables with a capacity of 32 seats. This phase continues with indoor seating from December 6, 2025, to January 25, 2026.

Pricing and Customer Comfort

Seating reservations will cost 660 yen per hour for four-person tables and 880 yen per hour for six-person tables. This pricing structure aims to enhance the dining experience without imposing significant burdens on customers. By utilizing this reservation system, individuals can efficiently enjoy their meals without worrying about the typical chaos of seating arrangements at popular destinations.

About Sano Premium Outlet

Sano Premium Outlet features an aesthetic inspired by the East Coast of the United States and is one of the largest outlet centers in the Kanto region. With around 180 renowned brands, it offers an extensive shopping experience just around 90 minutes from Tokyo via the Tohoku Expressway. The facility is located at 2058 Osanacho, Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture. Operating hours are typically from 10:00 to 20:00, with some exclusions, and there is one annual closure in February.

Corporate Background

• - It’s Communications Inc.: Headquartered in Setagaya, Tokyo, the company is recognized for its innovative telecommunications solutions and is an essential partner in this endeavor.
• - Mitsubishi Estate Simon Co., Ltd.: This organization specializes in the development and management of premium outlet facilities across Japan, ensuring a high standard of shopping experiences.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Connected Space Share at the Sano Premium Outlet represents a significant step towards modernizing the dining experience at shopping centers. By leveraging technology to minimize wait times and enhance satisfaction, the system is poised to transform the way visitors interact with food court services, encouraging not only efficient usage but a more enjoyable shopping day overall.