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History
History
While rooted in the IT industry, we have continuously embraced challenges such as establishing supercenter formats and revitalizing GMS through takeover stores, also ventured into various initiatives, including the development of Smart Store Technology®️ utilizing Retail AI and collaborative efforts with other companies.
For over 20 years since 1999, our revenue has consistently grown. Below is the history of our endeavors and challenges.
The beginning of Retail x IT
1970-1980
1974
Asahiya Grand Opening
Asahiya opens in Fukuoka City in 1974 as an antique dealer and recycling shop, laying the groundwork for TRIAL.
1984
Establishment of TRIAL Company, Inc.
ELBIT Grand Opening
Our predecessor was renamed TRIAL Company, Inc. in 1984 and continued to expand the number of home appliance and electronics retail outlets since changing names.
1992
Opening of TRIAL's First Store
We opened our first discount store in 1992, and steadily shifted our business to focus on operating a network of discount stores, partly by acquiring other companies.
1996
Opening of Super Center's First Store
We established our first Super Center in 1996 and began a period of nationwide expansion from the early 2000s.
Massive store expansion through takeover of GMS locations and continuous IT development.
2001-2010
2001
Commenced In-Store Opening in Premises Vacated After GMS Withdrawal Since 2001
During the period of high economic growth, the general merchandise store (GMS) format thrived. However, due to challenging business conditions influenced by changing consumer needs and the times, many GMS stores closed.
TRIAL began opening stores by moving into vacant spaces left by the withdrawal of GMS and other stores. Alongside specialized employees well-versed in the business, TRIAL established its format while accelerating nationwide expansion across Japan.
2003
Established a software development base in China in 2003.
Set up a software development base in Yantai City, China, focusing on strengthening IT system and device development through the hiring of local engineers.
2008
In June 2009, we acquired CowBoy Co., Ltd.
In June 2009, we acquired CowBoy Co., Ltd., a grocery store chain operating primarily in Hokkaido.
Collaborating with external companies for co-creation of value,
accelerating the development of Smart Store Technology.
2010-
2013
Commencement of operations for the data platform 'MD-Link' in 2013.
Developed and initiated the operation of MD-Link, a platform enabling the sharing of various data related to products between manufacturing manufacturers and stores. Implemented open innovation to achieve overall optimization through shared data.
2015
We became a holding company in September 2015
2016
Initiation of the Joint Business Plan (JBP) in 2016
Collaborating with various stakeholders in the supply chain, including manufacturers and wholesalers, to address and eliminate waste, excess, and inefficiencies in the retail industry.
JBP Summits are held, bringing top executives together to discuss and address industry challenges.
2018
Establishment of Retail AI, Inc. in 2018
Providing revolutionary solutions to the retail industry, including the development of AI cameras to monitor aspects such as payment tablet-equipped shopping carts (Skip Cart) and inventory status.
Super Center TRIAL Island City Store Opening
Introducing IoT devices such as Skip Cart and AI cameras, the Super Center TRIAL Island City Store (located in Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City) opens as Japan's first smart store, offering a new shopping experience.
2021
- Aiming to become Japan's leading hub for Retail DX (Retail IT/AI transformation), the Remote Work Town Musubu Miyawaka Project officially launches as a collaborative effort involving industry, government, and academia to develop the most advanced center in retail technology and artificial intelligence in 2021.
2022
- The first "TRIAL GO" Store
TRIAL GO Wakita Store (Miyawaka City, Fukuoka Prefecture) was opened as a next-generation smart store that incorporates cutting-edge IT technology.
2023
- Aomori TRIAL, Inc. and TRIAL Company, Inc. succeeded to a portion of the business of Satocho Co.
2024
- Listed on the Growth Market of Tokyo Stock Exchange.
