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2 clusters · 7 sources · 1 days · First seen 6 days ago · Last updated 5 days ago

Expansion of unmanned retail in Japan

Overview

Retailers in Japan are expanding unmanned and hybrid service models for books and stationery.

In Hiroshima Prefecture, Futaba Tosho announced that starting October 1, 2026, the TSUTAYA MEGA Nakasuji store will implement 24-hour operations using a hybrid model. This system combines staffed daytime service with unmanned nighttime and early morning hours, utilizing the ‘Hontasu’ management solution which incorporates facial recognition, self-checkout, and remote support. A second location, the TSUTAYA Kabe Center store, is scheduled to begin similar operations on October 8, 2026.

In Tokyo, Nippon Shuppan Hanbai, in collaboration with the Library Distribution Center, plans to open ‘TOSHOP’, an unmanned library shop, in Hachioji on October 3. Located within the Sotto-no-mori complex, the shop will feature a cashless system and offer children’s books, stationery, and regional goods. This initiative follows previous installations in Wakayama and Ishikawa Prefectures and aims to expand the model to other public libraries.

Entities

Nippon Shuppan Hanbai · TSUTAYA MEGA Nakasuji · Hiroshima · Futaba Tosho · TOSHOP

Timeline

5 days ago

[BUSINESS] 2 sources
Nippon Shuppan Hanbai to open unmanned TOSHOP in Hachioji
Nippon Shuppan Hanbai will launch ‘TOSHOP’, an unmanned, cashless library shop, in Hachioji, Tokyo, on October 3, featuring books and local regional goods.
6 days ago

[BUSINESS] 5 sources
Japanese companies announce new retail, gaming, and entertainment expansions
Various Japanese businesses announced updates: Futaba Tosho to launch 24-hour bookstores in Hiroshima, Hobby Japan to release a new Switch game in October, and TAROKO to expand sports entertainment into Japan.

Sources

animebox.jp · appbank.net · gamebiz.jp · jugem.jp · prtimes.jp · ryutsuu.biz · sportsmania.jp