Alicorn

Alicorn’s AI-based automated space management solution, ASA, is revolutionizing space operations across various industries. Today, we are excited to share the case of ASA’s successful implementation at Japan’s leading self-storage company, Marine Box. This case showcases how ASA has set a new standard in Japan’s self-storage industry and exemplifies the pioneering role of technology in space management.

What is Marine Box?

Marine Box provides self-storage services across Japan, offering secure storage spaces for individuals and businesses to temporarily store their items. The self-storage industry in Japan is booming, with approximately 14,000 facilities currently in operation, and it is expected to grow to a market size of about 960 billion yen by 2026. Amidst this growth, Marine Box stands as a key player, operating numerous locations nationwide.

Challenges Faced by Marine Box Before Implementing ASA

Before adopting ASA, Marine Box managed over 300 locations across Japan, primarily relying on manual, labor-intensive processes. This approach led to several operational challenges:

1. Complexity in Access Management Managing customer access required on-site staff to hand over physical card keys to visitors, making the process cumbersome and inefficient. Additionally, round-the-clock staffing was necessary to accommodate customers who needed 24/7 access, which posed a challenge to maintaining customer satisfaction.
2. Difficulties in Monitoring Emergency Situations Monitoring incidents such as leaks or fires solely through manpower was inadequate, given the large number of facilities. This limitation posed risks to the overall safety and reliability of storage operations.
3. Inefficient Individual Space Management Staff needed to visit each facility to manually monitor and manage the spaces, which consumed significant time and resources. This process hindered efficient operations, as it required personnel to manually adjust lighting and climate control systems in each storage unit.

Transformative Changes at Marine Box with ASA

With the implementation of ASA, Marine Box overcame these challenges and greatly enhanced its operations.

1. Simplified Access Management with QR Codes ASA enabled Marine Box to issue QR codes to customers for easy, secure entry. Customers can receive QR codes through a dedicated app, which they use to access the storage facility. This system eliminated the need for in-person distribution of card keys, significantly improving management efficiency. Additionally, QR codes provided an added layer of security due to their traceability and reduced risk of loss.
2. Automated Detection and Alerts for Emergency Situations ASA’s AI-powered monitoring feature allowed for real-time surveillance of each storage facility. In cases of emergencies such as leaks or fires, immediate alerts were sent to managers for prompt response. This technology empowered Marine Box to efficiently manage various risk factors and ensure a safer storage environment for their customers.
3. Automated Environmental Control ASA provided a system for automated control of environmental conditions based on specific schedules and settings. For example, AI could adjust lighting and climate control to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels within the storage units. Managers could also remotely control the environment when needed, adding flexibility to operations. This automation contributed to energy savings and reduced operational costs.
4. Data-Driven Usage Analysis ASA collected and reported usage data for each Marine Box location, providing insights into customer behavior and storage utilization. This data allowed managers to tailor services to customer needs, optimize resource allocation, and develop effective operational strategies. With data-driven analysis, Marine Box could better manage costs and improve space allocation.

Results of Implementing ASA at Marine Box

With ASA, Marine Box successfully reduced labor costs while improving operational efficiency. This automated system enhanced the customer experience and satisfaction, reinforcing the company’s competitive edge in the market with safer and smarter storage operations.

ASA’s impact goes beyond technological implementation; it has set a new benchmark for self-storage businesses like Marine Box. More industries are expected to experience the benefits of automation and efficiency through solutions like ASA.