Businesses in Japan Embracing Robotics for Boosted Productivity

In a bid to address labor shortages and improve business efficiency, Japan is increasingly turning to robots for work assistance in various sectors, with sports stadiums being no exception.

At the Es Con Field Hokkaido stadium, home to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters professional baseball team, a Japanese company named Namco has introduced a work assistance robot named "Suppot". This robot, designed to detect and automatically follow its user, is currently being used to transport beer kegs around the stadium.

The "Suppot" robot, capable of carrying up to 60 beer kegs, has proven to be a valuable asset, ensuring smooth operations and quick service for spectators. Yamato Holdings Co., which manages the operations of the robots, is hopeful that such robots will be used in other locations as well.

Beyond transporting beer kegs, the use of robots for sales is also being explored. Another robot for selling food and drinks to spectators is being tested at the Es Con Field Hokkaido stadium. If successful, this could revolutionize the way spectators are served, enhancing their overall experience.

Japan is not limiting the use of robots to stadiums alone. The country is also utilising these machines in office buildings, apartments, and other large-scale facilities. The robots are being tested for use in a variety of roles, including sales, in addition to their current roles in transportation.

In some facilities, robots are already being used for sales in addition to transportation. This multi-purpose use of robots is a growing trend in Japan, as the country seeks to leverage technology to address its labor shortages and improve business efficiency.

As Japan continues to embrace robots for work assistance, it's clear that these machines are set to play an increasingly important role in the country's business landscape. Whether it's transporting goods, serving food, or even selling tickets, robots are proving to be a valuable ally in the quest for efficiency and innovation.