Partner Spotlight: How ADSEC Took the Reins and Redefined Retail Security Across Japan

ADSEC Co., Ltd., a forward-thinking company based in Japan, initially started with narrow focus on electronic area surveillance (EAS) and CCTV solutions. However, ADSEC quickly recognized that Japan’s retail landscape required a more integrated approach to security. With guidance from his dear friend, InVue’s late founder, Jim Sankey, ADSEC’s president Hisaya “Harry” Koizumi, focused on the concept of “Promotional Security,” a solution designed to protect valuable products while enhancing the retail experience to boost sales.

This shift in philosophy allowed ADSEC to quickly grow in the mobile phone retail sector. Retail in Japan is unique. For instance, Japanese retailers often face stricter regulations and retailer rules when it comes to product displays, often making security solutions more challenging. Like their U.S. counterpart, they also place a high value on customer service and store aesthetics. Both of which must be maintained without compromising security. ADSEC was adept at recognizing these nuances and quickly became a trusted partner to retailers in several major markets. They are now the main provider of InVue solutions across Japan, offering security that fits both the needs of the market and the culture.

ADSEC’s Core Values and Mission

ADSEC’s success is rooted in innovation and collaboration. Their core values closely align with those of InVue, especially Harry Koizumi’s principle:

“It’s not about what you do, but who you do it with.”

This focus on strong partnerships has played a major role in ADSEC’s growth. Their long-standing relationship with InVue is a key example of this approach.

Overcoming Challenges and Collaborating for Solutions

One of ADSEC’s biggest challenges came with the launch of the iPhone in Japan. Japanese retailers face unique challenges around product displays. In Japan, there is a higher focus on customer interaction with products, so displaying demo units in an attractive and accessible way is important for driving sales. However, many retailers were not prepared to handle these demo units effectively, which could have hurt iPhone sales.

Thanks to their close partnership with InVue, ADSEC responded quickly, offering strategic solutions developed in collaboration with InVue. They helped SoftBank and Apple Japan overcome display challenges, ensuring the success of their projects. What could have been a major setback turned into a massive win. ADSEC’s ambition and ability to adapt to Japan’s specific retail environment allowed them to pioneer a new standard for retail security in the country.

Industry Insights and Adapting to Changing Times

The retail security market in Japan is constantly evolving. Japan is facing unique challenges, such as a declining birthrate and an aging population. These trends have led to a shrinking workforce, making it harder for retailers to staff stores. At the same time, brick and mortar stores are facing increased incidents of theft and damage while they face increased competition from online ordering.

ADSEC has recognized these shifts and responded with innovative security solutions. Their advanced technology addresses not only theft and damage prevention but also the need for operational efficiency in a market with fewer employees. By offering integrated security systems that are easy to manage, ADSEC ensures retailers can maintain high security without overwhelming their staff.

Memorable Customer Success and Smart Solutions for Retailers

A standout success for ADSEC was their work with Hareruya, a leading trading card retailer. As the market for trading cards exploded, so did theft and shrinkage. In Japan, retailers in high-demand markets like this often struggle with keeping products secure while maintaining an inviting shopping environment. ADSEC introduced InVue’s Smart Locks to secure these valuable items without detracting from the store’s presentation. After implementation, theft was eliminated, and feedback from customers was overwhelmingly positive.

The Future of Retail Security

ADSEC is preparing for the future by embracing trends like integrated smart device management. Japan’s retail landscape is unique in that it values both high-tech solutions that are low-maintenance and user friendly. As the market continues to evolve, ADSEC remains committed to staying ahead of the curve. They focus on developing solutions that cater specifically to the challenges retailers face in Japan, ensuring they remain a key player in the industry.

The InVue Partnership: A Strong Foundation

ADSEC’s partnership with InVue has been instrumental to their success. As ADSEC’s leadership notes, “ADSEC’s history cannot be told without mentioning InVue.” From the beginning, InVue’s innovative thinking and support helped shape ADSEC into a leader in retail security. The partnership continues to thrive, with ADSEC benefiting from InVue’s expertise in product development and forward-thinking strategies.

A standout product from this collaboration is the MagStand, set to launch soon as a sleek Qi charging stand designed to enhance the customer experience. With its ability to elevate iPhone displays, the MagStand has garnered significant attention for its role in transforming product displays—a key feature in Japan’s retail environment, where showcasing products is considered an art form. Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s clear that ADSEC continues to lead in providing innovative solutions tailored to Japan’s unique retail needs.

Preparing for the What’s Next

With a strong foundation and a forward-looking approach, ADSEC is poised for continued success. Their longstanding partnership with InVue will remain a driving force for growth and innovation. As Japan’s retail environment continues to evolve, ADSEC’s ability to adapt and lead, developing localized and innovative solutions with InVue, will ensure they stay ahead of the curve. Their dedication to solving customers’ challenges and maintaining a culture of innovation will keep them at the forefront of retail security.

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About ADSEC Co., Ltd.
ADSEC Co., Ltd. is a leading provider of retail security solutions in Japan, specializing in integrated systems that protect valuable products while enhancing the customer experience. Their solutions are designed to meet both the security and aesthetic needs of the Japanese market.

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