Vendy_Chronic Labor Shortage,Experience-Based Management
Japan is renowned as a "vending machine superpower," with these automated retailers ubiquitous throughout the country. The industry's annual sales reach an impressive 4.7 trillion yen. However, behind this rapid proliferation and enormous market lie various challenges.
Currently, much of the vending machine operations, including product restocking, inventory management, and route planning, rely heavily on the experience and intuition of the staff in charge. The vending machine industry faces several issues, including labor shortages and high workload for staff. Additionally, problems such as product waste, stock-outs, and inefficient routing leading to increased CO2 emissions have become significant concerns.
"Vendy":Enabling Sustainable Vending Machine Operations
Vendy is a service that offers one-stop solutions for vending machine operations.
It integrates diverse data, including sales and inventory information from vending machines, as well as diverse operational requirements specific to beverage manufacturers
and vending machine operators (such as contract terms with location owners and business constraints like regional product offerings).
This data is then analyzed using AI algorithms developed by SoftBank to predict sales and provide insights. The service encompasses a range of functions related to vending machine operations, all accessible through a single platform.
Vendy_Enabling Sustainable Vending Machine Operations
Vendy_Overview
"Vendy" realizes AI-powered operational efficiency and sales growth
Vendy_Optimizing Route Planning
Optimizing Route Planning
The system analyzes inventory data and route costs to select and recommend priority locations for servicing.
Vendy_Optimizing Shelf Layout
Optimizing Shelf Layout
AI predicts demand based on historical sales data and suggests optimal shelf layouts to maximize revenue.
Vendy_Real-time Inventory Display
Real-time Inventory Display
Monitor sales performance via smartphone, allowing for efficient preparation of stock replenishment before visiting locations.
Realizing Sustainable Vending Machine Operations
SoftBank aims to create a more workable future by solving social issues faced by the vending machine industry through making vending machine operations more efficient and reducing the workload.
Kirin Beverage Company, Limited
Achieving reduced work hours and increased sales
Based on the preliminary verification conducted on vending machines operated by Kirin Beverage's group companies, the effectiveness in actual field operations and versatility in adapting to operations were confirmed.
In light of these verification results, Kirin Beverage has decided to adopt "Vendy". The company expects a 10% reduction in operation-related work hours and approximately 5% increase in sales for vending machines operated by its group companies
Towards Digital Transformation in the Vending Machine Industry
SoftBank Corporation has developed and launched "Vendy," an AI-powered vending machine operation optimization service for beverage manufacturers and vending machine operators, on March 12, 2024.
SoftBank aims to drive digital transformation (DX) in the vending machine industry through the provision of "Vendy".
This initiative seeks to contribute to improved operational efficiency, reduced waste, and increased sales within the sector.
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- Automated Vending Machine Business with AI
- Building Partnerships with Overseas Companies
- Establishment of Sustainable Business Models
- Discovery of New Businesses and Novel Solutions