Suntory Launches Cashless Vending App 'Jihanki' with PointInfinity Gateway

Suntory's Innovative Cashless Vending Experience with Jihanki

In a groundbreaking move for enhancing customer experience, Suntory Beverage Solutions has introduced the 'Jihanki' app, a cashless vending machine application powered by Hitachi Solutions' PointInfinity multi-point gateway service. This initiative aims to simplify transactions while allowing users to make purchases using various common reward points.

Understanding Jihanki

The 'Jihanki' app, designed to be user-friendly, enables customers to purchase beverages from vending machines by simply tapping their smartphones. The app supports a wide range of payment methods, including QR code payments and credit cards, integrating up to 13 different financial services. This flexibility allows users to manage their transactions conveniently, fostering a cashless purchasing environment at vending machines.

One of the standout features of Jihanki is its compatibility with five popular reward point systems: d-point, Rakuten Points, V Points, Ponta Points, and WAON POINT. This integration offers customers the unique opportunity to use their accumulated points to buy drinks or earn rewards on their purchases, enhancing the vending machine experience beyond traditional methods.

Future Ambitions

As part of its strategic vision, Suntory plans to deploy 150,000 Jihanki-compatible vending machines nationwide by 2025. The implementation of the PointInfinity multi-point gateway is vital in achieving this ambitious target, streamlining the process for quicker integration of common point systems into their vending machines.

Early Adoption Benefits

The introduction of common points through the Jihanki app provides several advantages:
1. Customer Convenience: Shoppers can effortlessly utilize their reward points or accumulate new ones by engaging with the app for their beverage purchases.
2. Cost Efficiency for Suntory: The early integration of the common points not only reduces initial setup costs and lead times but also lowers ongoing operational expenses, greatly contributing to the proliferation of cashless transactions.

Background on the Initiative

Recognizing the need to augment the appeal of vending machines, Suntory has aimed for a seamless cashless experience through Jihanki and the early implementation of common points. Hitachi Solutions' PointInfinity multi-point gateway was selected due to its proven track record in nationwide distribution and retail sectors, and its compatibility with six leading brands was crucial in establishing it as the go-to platform for point connectivity.

Insight from Suntory's Marketing Leader

Mr. Shin Mori, Development Leader at Suntory Beverage Solutions, expressed gratitude for the partnership with Hitachi Solutions. He noted, "Connecting with multiple point providers has historically posed significant challenges, particularly around establishing dedicated networks. However, with the PointInfinity multi-point gateway, we have resolved these hurdles efficiently, enabling rapid development. Without this platform, the Jihanki app's release would have been delayed. We are incredibly grateful for their support."

About Hitachi Solutions

Hitachi Solutions is dedicated to supporting customers through digital transformation by offering cutting-edge technology and solutions tailored to various industries. With collaborative efforts across offices in Europe, the U.S., Southeast Asia, and India, Hitachi Solutions addresses societal challenges on a global scale, aiming to ensure that communities can thrive in a safe and comfortable environment.

For inquiries regarding their solutions, visit Hitachi Solutions Inquiry Page.

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