Electronic shelf tag control device, system, and program

Abstract

To provide an electronic shelf tag control device that reduces the workload of a store clerk.SOLUTION: An electronic shelf tag control device includes acquisition means, identification means, and display instruction means. The acquisition means acquires a product and order information indicating whether or not the product has been ordered. The identification means identifies, when the order information indicates that the product has been ordered, an electronic shelf tag associated with the product indicated by the order information. The display instruction means instructs the electronic shelf tag identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has been ordered.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic shelf label control device, a system, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, when a store runs low on stock of a product, a sales clerk places an order for that product. For example, the order is placed from a personal computer located in the back room or from a handheld terminal device carried by a sales clerk who makes the rounds on the sales floor. Shelf tags are placed on the display shelves, and the sales clerk checks the shelf tag and the stock of the product to place the order.

[0003] In recent years, in addition to regular shelf labels in which product information such as price is printed on paper, electronic shelf labels that display product information on a display have become widespread (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). Electronic shelf labels allow product information to be changed without the need for store clerks to replace the labels, reducing the workload of store clerks when changing product information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2000-076351 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the conventional technology, when a sales clerk walking around the sales floor finds a product with a small number of items on display, it is not easy to check whether the product has been ordered or not. For example, the sales clerk uses a personal computer or a handheld terminal device to check whether the product has been ordered or not. This creates a workload for the sales clerk.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a technique capable of reducing the workload of store clerks. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is an electronic shelf label control device that includes an acquisition means for acquiring a product and order information indicating whether the product has been ordered, an identification means for identifying an electronic shelf label associated with the product indicated by the order information if the order information indicates that the product has been ordered, and a display instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has been ordered.

[0008] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is an electronic shelf label control device that includes an acquisition means for acquiring a product and order information indicating whether the product has been ordered, an identification means for identifying an electronic shelf label associated with the product indicating that the product has not been ordered when the order information indicates that the product has not been ordered, and a display instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has not been ordered.

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an electronic shelf label control device that is one aspect of the present invention is an electronic shelf label control device in a system that includes an electronic shelf label, an electronic shelf label control device, and a mobile communication terminal, and includes clerk information acquisition means that acquires clerk information identifying a clerk from the mobile communication terminal, setting information acquisition means that acquires setting information indicating a display mode of the electronic shelf label, and display instruction means that issues a predetermined display instruction to a target electronic shelf label in accordance with the setting information acquired by the setting information acquisition means, wherein the clerk information is associated in advance with shelf label identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label, and the display instruction means issues the predetermined display instruction in accordance with the setting information to the electronic shelf label indicated by the shelf label identification information that is associated with the clerk information acquired by the clerk information acquisition means.

[0010] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a system that is another aspect of the present invention is a system that includes an electronic shelf label and an electronic shelf label control device that controls the electronic shelf label, wherein the electronic shelf label control device comprises an acquisition means that acquires a product and order information indicating whether the product has been ordered, an identification means that, if the order information indicates that the product has been ordered, identifies the electronic shelf label associated with the product indicated by the order information, and a display instruction means that issues a display instruction to the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means in a display mode indicating that the product has been ordered, and the electronic shelf label comprises a communication unit that receives the display instruction, and a display operation unit that displays in the display mode indicated by the display instruction received by the communication unit.

[0011] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a system that is another aspect of the present invention is a system comprising an electronic shelf label, an electronic shelf label control device, and a mobile communication terminal, wherein the electronic shelf label control device comprises clerk information acquisition means that acquires clerk information identifying a clerk from the mobile communication terminal, setting information acquisition means that acquires setting information indicating a display mode of the electronic shelf label, and display instruction means that issues a predetermined display instruction to a target electronic shelf label in accordance with the setting information acquired by the setting information acquisition means, wherein the clerk information is associated in advance with shelf label identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label, and the display instruction means issues the predetermined display instruction in accordance with the setting information to the electronic shelf label indicated by the shelf label identification information that is associated with the clerk information acquired by the clerk information acquisition means.

[0012] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer of an electronic shelf label control device to function as an acquisition means for acquiring a product and order information indicating whether the product has been ordered, an identification means for identifying an electronic shelf label associated with the product indicated by the order information if the order information indicates that the product has been ordered, and a display instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has been ordered. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a network configuration of a shelf label management system 1 according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a wireless indicator 150. FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic ordering DB provided in the store controller 110. [Figure 4] 2 is a diagram showing an example of a shelf label information DB 101 provided in the shelf label management server 100. FIG. [Diagram 5] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a wireless indicator DB 102 provided in the shelf label management server 100. FIG. [Figure 6] 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a wireless indicator 150. FIG. [Figure 7] 4 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the shelf label management system 1. FIG. [Figure 8A] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode DB 152 included in the wireless indicator 150. FIG. [Figure 8B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a store clerk shelf label management DB 820. [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing an example of a display mode of an electronic shelf label 160. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a display process related to an ordered item performed by the wireless indicator 150. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a display process related to ordering during an event, which is performed by the wireless indicator 150. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] (Embodiment) (Network configuration of shelf label management system 1) 1 is a diagram showing a network configuration of a shelf label management system 1 according to an embodiment. The shelf label management system 1 (an example of a system) can be introduced in various stores St, such as supermarkets, home improvement stores, convenience stores, and various supply stores.

[0015] In FIG. 1, the shelf label management system 1 includes a shelf label management server 100, a store controller 110, a weighing / packaging / pricing device 120, a POP creation device 130, a handheld terminal device 140, a wireless indicator 150, an electronic shelf label 160, a registration / settlement device 170, and a headquarters master device 180. Each device is communicatively connected via a network 190. These devices are computer devices equipped with a central processing unit (CPU), a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a communication unit, and the like. Of these devices, each device except the headquarters master device 180 is disposed in a store. The shelf label management server 100 and the POP creation device 130 may be disposed outside the store, that is, may be, for example, a cloud service type.

[0016] The shelf label management server 100 is placed, for example, in a back yard of a store. The shelf label management server 100 includes a shelf label information DB (Date Base) 101 (see FIG. 4) and a wireless indicator DB 102 (see FIG. 5), which will be described later, and acquires information on various products from a store controller 110 to manage the contents to be displayed on the shelf labels. The shelf labels include a POP (Point of purchase advertising) advertisement 141, a price card 142, a fresh produce POP 143, and an electronic shelf label 160. The POP advertisement 141 is an advertising medium on which product information is printed on a paper medium such as A4 paper. The product information includes, for example, a product code, a price, a product name, a place of origin, and an event (sale) in progress. The product code includes a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code and an in-store code. The JAN code is a barcode added by a manufacturer and is represented by a 13-digit number. The in-store code is a barcode added in the store itself and is represented by a 13-digit number, for example.

[0017] The price card 142 is a normal shelf label on which product information is printed on a paper medium. The product code printed on the price card 142 is, for example, a JAN code. The fresh food POP 143 is a shelf label attached to fresh food, and is a shelf label on which product information is printed on a paper medium. The product code printed on the fresh food POP 143 is, for example, an in-store code.

[0018] The electronic shelf label 160 includes a display 162. Product information is displayed on the display 162. The product code displayed on the electronic shelf label 160 is, for example, a JAN code.

[0019] The store controller 110 is placed, for example, in the back yard of a store. It stores various information necessary for transactions, such as a product master. The product master is a file that stores product information such as the product code (JAN code, in-store code, etc.) of each product, the product name, the selling price, and the weight of the product. The product master also includes product identification information of products that need to be weighed (products to be weighed), the product name, and the unit price of the products to be weighed. In addition to the product master, the store controller 110 also stores the inventory status of various products, the deposit and withdrawal records of the registered settlement device 170, and sales history based on the deposit and withdrawal records. The store controller 110 also includes an automatic ordering DB (FIG. 3) described later, and manages automatic ordering of each product.

[0020] The weighing / packaging / pricing device 120 is placed, for example, in the back yard of a fresh food sales floor for meat, fresh fish, etc. The weighing / packaging / pricing device 120 weighs the fresh food, calculates the price, and packs it, and issues price tags (labels) to be affixed to the products. The weighing / packaging / pricing device 120 also transmits information indicating the weighing result and price of each product to the store controller 110.

[0021] The POP creating device 130 is disposed, for example, in a back yard of a store. The POP creating device 130 receives various necessary information from the store controller 110 and the weighing / packaging / pricing device 120 via the shelf label management server 100, and issues a POP advertisement 141, a price card 142, and a fresh POP 143. For example, when issuing a fresh POP 143, the POP creating device 130 receives necessary information from the weighing / packaging / pricing device 120 and issues it. The POP creating device 130 sets and edits print layouts, manages issuance schedules for various paper media, and accepts issuance instructions for various paper media. The issued paper media are carried by a store clerk to a predetermined sales floor and placed in a predetermined position.

[0022] The handy terminal device 140 is a portable terminal device carried by a store clerk. The handy terminal device 140 is used for ordering and inventorying of products. The handy terminal device 140 can display the inventory status of products. In ordering products, the handy terminal device 140 can read product codes attached to electronic shelf labels 160 or the like, and order products. In inventorying, the handy terminal device 140 can tally up stock quantities and display the tally results. The handy terminal device 140 can also check selling prices and issue discount stickers. The selling price check is to compare the selling price information of each product managed by the store controller 110 with the store price printed on the price card 142 or the like, and determine whether the store price is correct.

[0023] The wireless indicator 150 is an example of an electronic shelf label control device. A plurality of wireless indicators 150 are provided in a store. Each wireless indicator 150 is disposed in a predetermined arrangement area. Each wireless indicator 150 controls an electronic shelf label 160 under its control. The wireless indicator 150 transmits an instruction to rewrite product information displayed on the electronic shelf label 160. The wireless indicator 150 also includes a shelf label information DB 151 and a display mode DB 152. The shelf label information DB 151 stores shelf label information 400 (FIG. 4) described later. The display mode DB 152 stores display mode information 800 (FIG. 8A) described later. The wireless indicator 150 transmits an instruction to display, for example, a mode indicating that an automatic order has been placed, based on the shelf label information 400 and the display mode information 800.

[0024] The electronic shelf label 160 is placed on a display shelf where each product is stored. The electronic shelf label 160 includes a display operation unit and a communication unit. The display operation unit includes an LED (Light Emitting Diode) lamp 161 and a display 162. The LED lamp 161 can be lit in one or more of a plurality of colors (e.g., three colors). The display 162 is, for example, electronic paper. The display 162 can display one or more of a plurality of colors (e.g., five colors). The communication unit receives a display instruction from the wireless indicator 150. The LED lamp 161 and the display 162 display the display instruction in a display mode. Note that displaying the electronic shelf label 160 includes causing the LED lamp 161 to emit light and causing the display 162 to display an image.

[0025] It should be noted that the electronic shelf label 160 is arranged on one display shelf for one product. However, this is not limited thereto, and the electronic shelf label 160 may be arranged on multiple display shelves for one product. For example, if a product is on sale, one product may be arranged on multiple display shelves. Specifically, a product on sale may be arranged on an end of a display shelf in addition to a normal display shelf. Also, for example, a display shelf may be divided into a predetermined number (for example, into two) and one electronic shelf label 160 may be used. In this case, it is also possible to divide the display 162 into two and display products displayed on two display shelves. It is also possible to divide the display 162 into four and display products displayed on four display shelves.

[0026] The electronic shelf label 160 allows product information to be changed without the need for a store clerk to perform replacement work, reducing the workload of the store clerk when changing product information. For this reason, it is effective to use the electronic shelf label 160 for products whose selling prices change frequently.

[0027] The registration settlement device 170 executes a product registration process for registering products and a settlement process for settlement. An operator who operates the registration settlement device 170 may be a store clerk or a customer. For example, the registration settlement device 170 may be a so-called face-to-face self-checkout register or a full self-checkout register. A face-to-face self-checkout register is a register that performs product registration processing by operation of a store clerk and settlement processing by operation of a customer. A full self-checkout register is a register that performs product registration processing and settlement processing by operation of a customer. Note that, if the shelf label management system 1 is provided with a settlement-only device, the registration settlement device 170 may transmit registration information to the settlement-only device without being provided with a function for performing settlement processing. In this case, the settlement-only device performs settlement processing.

[0028] The headquarters master device 180 is a computer installed at the headquarters of each affiliated store (each shop) in which the shelf label management system 1 is installed. The headquarters master device 180 manages the sales and inventory status of each affiliated store. Specifically, the headquarters master device 180 can obtain sales information, inventory information, and the like from the store controller 110 of each affiliated store and manage sales and inventory. The headquarters master device 180 can also set the selling price for each product at each affiliated store and set events.

[0029] (Hardware configuration of wireless indicator 150) Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of wireless indicator 150. In Fig. 2, wireless indicator 150 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a display unit 204, a communication unit 205, and a battery 206. In addition, each component is connected to each other via a bus 220.

[0030] The CPU 201 is responsible for overall control of the wireless indicator 150. The CPU 201 controls the operation of the registration and settlement apparatus 20 by reading and executing various programs stored in the ROM 202. The various programs include an electronic shelf label management program according to this embodiment. The ROM 202 is a read-only memory, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 201, including various programs. The RAM 203 is a readable and writable memory, and is used as a work area for the CPU 201. The RAM 203 stores various information. The various information is, for example, information acquired from the outside (for example, the shelf label management server 100, the store controller 110, the handy terminal device 140, the electronic shelf label 160, etc.) and information generated during processing.

[0031] The display unit 204 displays various information. The display unit 204 is an illumination unit such as an LED lamp, but may also include a display, etc. The display unit 204 displays, for example, the communication status (online, offline) and the remaining amount of the battery 206. The communication unit 205 is connected to a network 190 such as the Internet through a communication line, and is connected to other devices via the network 190. The other devices are, for example, the shelf label management server 100, the store controller 110, the handheld terminal device 140, the electronic shelf label 160, and the like. The battery 206 provides power to operate the wireless indicator 150 .

[0032] (About the automatic ordering database) Here, the automatic ordering DB stored in the store controller 110 will be described with reference to FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic ordering DB provided in the store controller 110. The automatic ordering DB includes fields for "product code," "product name," "automatic ordering," "automatic ordering date," and "ordering method." By inputting data into each field, automatic ordering information is stored as a record.

[0033] "Product code" indicates the JAN code or in-store code. "Product name" indicates the name of the product. "Automatic ordering" indicates whether automatic ordering is in progress, or when automatic ordering is stopped. Note that when automatic ordering is stopped, this also includes manual ordering (when automatic ordering is not performed). Automatic ordering can be switched on and off. For example, for products that are the subject of an event, a larger quantity than usual may be purchased in order to purchase them at a lower price. For this reason, store staff may temporarily stop automatic ordering before or during an event. When automatic ordering is stopped, the "Automatic ordering" item will show as "Stopped." "Automatic ordering date" indicates the day of the week or the ordering cycle (order date) on which automatic ordering will be performed. In this way, in automatic ordering, an order date is set for each product. "Ordering method" refers to the ordering method related to automatic ordering, and indicates, for example, either the sell one by one method or the reorder point method. The sell one by one method is a method in which only the amount sold is ordered. The store ordering method is a method in which a fixed amount is ordered when inventory falls below a predetermined level. In this way, with automatic ordering, the ordering method is preset for each product.

[0034] Based on the automatic ordering information stored in the automatic ordering DB, the store controller 110 is configured to automatically place an order for a product for which "automatic ordering" is in progress, according to the set "ordering method" when the "automatic ordering date" arrives.

[0035] (Regarding restocking by store staff) Here, when there is a product with a small display quantity, the store clerk checks whether the product has been ordered or not using the store controller 110 or the handy terminal device 140. Therefore, the work of checking whether the product has been ordered or not is a burden on the store clerk. Therefore, the shelf label management system 1 according to the present embodiment is designed to reduce the workload of store clerks by displaying on each electronic shelf label 160 at a predetermined timing in a display mode that indicates whether an order has been placed or not. The information and various processes managed by the shelf label management system 1 will be described below.

[0036] (About shelf tag information DB101) First, the shelf label information DB 101 will be described with reference to FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the shelf label information DB 101 provided in the shelf label management server 100. The shelf label information DB 101 includes the following fields: "date," "shelf label ID," "shelf label type," "shelf label size," "placement area," "product code," "product name," "selling price," "order information," "delay information," "automatic order information," and "event information." By inputting data into each field, shelf label information 400 is stored as a record.

[0037] "Date" indicates the date on which each shelf tag will be used in the store. "Shelf label ID" is identification information assigned to each shelf label. "Shelf label type" indicates the type of shelf label. The types of shelf labels include normal electronic shelf labels 160, frozen electronic shelf labels 160, POP advertisements 141, price cards 142, and fresh POP 143. "Shelf tag size" indicates the size of each shelf tag. The "arrangement area" indicates the area (sales floor) in which each shelf tag is arranged. The area (sales floor) corresponds to a product classification, such as vegetables, meat, dried goods, prepared foods, daily necessities, and alcohol. "Product name" indicates the name of the product displayed on each shelf tag. "Product code" indicates the JAN code or in-store code. "Selling price" indicates the selling price of the product displayed on each shelf tag. "Order Information" indicates whether or not an item has been ordered. If an order has been placed, regardless of whether it was an automatic order or a manual order, "Yes" is entered in the "Order Information" field. On the other hand, if an order has not been placed, the "Order Information" field contains "-" (Null). "Delay Information" indicates whether the delivery of an ordered item will be delayed from normal delivery. Specifically, "Yes" is entered in the "Delay Information" field, indicating that the delivery will be delayed. On the other hand, if the delivery will be as usual, the "Delay Information" field will be "-" (Null). The "automatic ordering information" indicates whether automatic ordering is in progress or is stopped. The "automatic ordering information" is obtained from the store controller 110. "Event information" indicates the period during which an event such as a sale is held (the event start date and the event end date). Note that the period during which an event is held is not limited to multiple days, and may be one day.

[0038] As an example, shelf label information 400 with a date of "June 10th" indicates that shelf label ID "e001" has a shelf label type of "normal electronic shelf label", shelf label size of "large size", arrangement area of ​​"daily distribution area", product code of "XXXX", product name of "XX yogurt", selling price of "98 yen", order information of "Yes", delay information of "Yes", automatic order information of "suspended", and event information of "June 8th to June 12th". If the location (shelf number) is managed, the location (shelf number) may be included in shelf label information 400 and stored instead of or in addition to the arrangement area. Also, if an aisle number is managed for each shelf label number, the aisle number may be included in shelf label information 400 and stored instead of or in addition to the arrangement area.

[0039] (About the wireless indicator DB102) Next, the wireless indicator DB 102 provided in the shelf label management server 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the wireless indicator DB 102. The wireless indicator DB 102 includes fields for "wireless indicator ID" and "location area." By inputting data into each field, wireless indicator information is stored as a record. The “wireless indicator ID” is identification information assigned to each wireless indicator 150. The “wireless indicator ID” may be an IP address or a MAC address of the wireless indicator 150. The “wireless indicator ID” may be editable by the shelf label management server 100. The "placement area" is a sales floor (area) in which the wireless indicator 150 is placed. The "placement area" is an area in which the wireless indicator 150 monitors the electronic shelf labels 160 under its control.

[0040] As an example, the wireless indicator 150 with the "wireless indicator ID" of "w001" is arranged in the daily distribution area, and indicates that it issues a display instruction to the electronic shelf label 160 in the daily distribution area. The area to which the wireless indicator 150 is assigned is not limited to the area corresponding to the sales floor of the product. For example, when the daily distribution area is wide, multiple wireless indicators 150 may be arranged in the daily distribution area. Also, when the daily distribution area and the meat area are small, one wireless indicator 150 may be arranged for multiple areas of the daily distribution area and the meat area. In this way, the wireless indicator ID is set corresponding to the arrangement area. However, without being limited to this, the wireless indicator ID may be set corresponding to the range of the shelf label ID. For example, the wireless indicator ID may be set as a range of multiple shelf label IDs, such as the shelf label IDs "e001 to e100, e201 to e300".

[0041] (An example of a functional configuration of the wireless indicator 150) Next, the functional configuration of the wireless indicator 150 according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the wireless indicator 150. As shown in FIG. 6, the wireless indicator 150 includes functional units, an acquisition unit 601, an identification unit 602, and a display instruction unit 603. Each functional unit is realized by a CPU 201 included in the wireless indicator 150. That is, the CPU 201 executes an electronic shelf label management program stored in the memory 202 to realize the function of each functional unit.

[0042] In this embodiment, it is possible to confirm that the product has been ordered by the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160. Below, each of the functional units shown in FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the sequence diagram shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the shelf label management system 1.

[0043] Step S701: The shelf label management server 100 transmits, at a predetermined timing such as before opening, to the wireless indicator 150, the shelf label information 400 corresponding to the area in which the wireless indicator 150 is placed, among the shelf label information 400 stored in the shelf label information DB 101. Specifically, the wireless indicator 150 with the wireless indicator ID "w001" is placed in the daily distribution area (FIG. 5). Also, the electronic shelf label 160 with the shelf label ID "e001" is placed in the daily distribution area (FIG. 4). Therefore, the shelf label management server 100 transmits the shelf label information 400 of the electronic shelf label 160 with "e001" to the wireless indicator 150 with "w001". Also, the shelf label management server 100 transmits the shelf label information 400 of all the electronic shelf labels 160 placed in the daily distribution area to the wireless indicator 150 with "w001".

[0044] Step S702: The wireless indicator 150 stores the shelf label information 400 received from the shelf label management server 100 in the shelf label information DB 151 (FIG. 1). That is, the shelf label information DB 151 stores the shelf label information 400 of the electronic shelf label 160 managed by its own device (wireless indicator 150). Note that the shelf label information 400 transmitted from the shelf label management server 100 may be the difference from the information transmitted the previous time. Furthermore, when the wireless indicator 150 receives erroneous data from the shelf label management server 100 (for example, data of a product not associated with its own device), it may transmit an error indicating that to the shelf label management server 100.

[0045] Furthermore, the shelf label information DB 151 may not store a portion of the shelf label information 400 depending on the capacity of the memory 202, etc. The portion of the information is, for example, at least one of the ordering information, the delay information, the automatic ordering information, and the event information. In this case, the wireless indicator 150 may acquire the portion of the information from the shelf label management server 100 at the timing when issuing a display instruction to the electronic shelf label 160.

[0046] Step S703: The handy terminal device 140 accepts an operation to start checking the automatically ordered items by an operation of a store clerk. When accepting the operation to start checking, the handy terminal device 140 may accept a designation of a target area. Furthermore, when the handy terminal device 140 does not accept a designation of a target area, it may assume that a designation of all areas has been accepted. When the handy terminal device 140 accepts the operation to start checking, it transmits information indicating that to the shelf label management server 100. Note that the operation to start checking is not limited to accepting an operation to start checking the automatically ordered items, and it is also possible to accept an operation to start ordering during an event.

[0047] Step S704: When the shelf label management server 100 receives information from the handheld terminal device 140 indicating that an operation to start checking the automatically ordered item has been accepted, the shelf label management server 100 transmits a display start instruction to the wireless indicators 150 in the target area.

[0048] Step S705: When the wireless indicator 150 receives a display start instruction from the shelf label management server 100, the acquisition unit 601 of the wireless indicator 150 references the shelf label information 400 in the shelf label information DB 151 and acquires the order information. The order information includes information indicating whether the product has been ordered or not. Ordering here includes automatic ordering and manual ordering. The order information indicates "ordered" if an order has been placed within a predetermined day. For example, if an automatic ordering is in progress, the order information indicates "ordered" if the most recent automatic ordering has been performed.

[0049] On the other hand, when automatic ordering is stopped or when the item is not subject to automatic ordering, the order information indicates "ordered" if the order was placed within a predetermined number of days prior to the current day. The predetermined number of days may be, for example, the number of days required for delivery. For example, for a product that requires two days for delivery, the order information may indicate "ordered" if the order was placed within a period of two days prior to the current day.

[0050] Furthermore, regardless of whether an order is automatically placed or manually placed, the order information may indicate that the order has been placed on the order date plus a predetermined number of days (for example, one day). The predetermined number of days may be changeable as appropriate depending on the characteristics of the product, the time of order, etc. Furthermore, the change may be changeable for each product department or classification.

[0051] Step S706: If the ordering information acquired by the acquiring unit 601 indicates that an order has been placed, the identifying unit 602 identifies the electronic shelf label associated with the product. As shown in the shelf label information DB 101, the product (product code) indicated by the ordering information is associated with an electronic shelf label 160 (shelf label ID). For example, for "XX yogurt" shown in the shelf label information DB 101, the ordering information indicates "Yes". Therefore, the identifying unit 602 identifies the electronic shelf label 160 with the electronic shelf label ID "e001" associated with "XX yogurt".

[0052] Step S707: The display instruction unit 603 instructs the electronic shelf label 160 identified by the identification unit 602 to display a display mode indicating that an order has been placed (hereinafter referred to as an "ordered mode"). Note that examples of each display mode including the ordered mode will be described later with reference to Figs. 8A and 9.

[0053] Step S708: When the electronic shelf label 160 receives a display instruction from the wireless indicator 150, it displays the electronic shelf label 160 in an ordered state in accordance with the display instruction. The display by the electronic shelf label 160 includes at least one of displaying an image on the display 162 and illuminating an LED. This allows the store clerk to simultaneously display all of the electronic shelf labels 160 that have been ordered in the ordered state by performing a confirmation start operation on the handheld terminal device 140. This allows the store clerk to easily know that an order has been placed by simply checking the ordered state. On the other hand, if the electronic shelf label 160 is not displayed in the ordered state, it is easy to know that an order has not been placed.

[0054] In the description of Fig. 7, the trigger for displaying the electronic shelf labels 160 is acceptance of the confirmation start operation by the handheld terminal device 140 in step S703, but this is not limited to this. The trigger can also be a predetermined timing that is set in advance (for example, 30 minutes before opening, or one hour after opening). In this way, at the predetermined timing that is set in advance, the electronic shelf labels 160 that have been ordered can be displayed in an ordered state all at once. The predetermined timing can also be set according to a schedule. In this case, the wireless indicator 150 can also issue a display instruction to the electronic shelf labels 160 at the set timing using a calendar function and a clock function.

[0055] 7 has been described as an example in which the shelf label information 400 is transmitted in advance from the shelf label management server 100 to the wireless indicator 150, but this is not limiting. For example, the shelf label information 400 may be transmitted from the shelf label management server 100 to the wireless indicator 150 at the timing of transmitting the display start instruction shown in step S704. In other words, the shelf label information 400 does not have to be transmitted in advance from the shelf label management server 100 to the wireless indicator 150.

[0056] (Display of delay status) In this embodiment, it is possible to confirm that the delivery of an ordered product is delayed by the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160. A specific description will be given below. As shown in the shelf label information DB 101, the delay information indicates whether or not the delivery of the product indicated by the order information will be delayed from normal. The acquisition unit 601 references the shelf label information 400 in the shelf label information DB 151 to acquire the delay information. When the delay information acquired by the acquisition unit 601 indicates a delivery delay, the display instruction unit 603 instructs the electronic shelf label 160 corresponding to the product to display a display mode indicating that the delivery will be delayed (hereinafter referred to as the "delay mode"). When the electronic shelf label 160 receives the display instruction from the wireless indicator 150, it displays in the delay mode.

[0057] As a result, when the handheld terminal device 140 receives an operation to start checking for delivery delays, or at a predetermined timing during the store's closing time, the electronic shelf labels 160 of products with delivery delays can all be displayed in a delayed state at once. Therefore, the store clerk can easily know that there is a delivery delay just by checking the delay state. On the other hand, when the electronic shelf labels 160 are not displayed in a delayed state, the store clerk can easily know that there is no delivery delay.

[0058] (Regarding the display indicating automatic ordering suspension during the event period) Here, an event is held at the store. The event may be, for example, a sale at a special price, more points than usual, a gift (bonus) of another product with a purchase, or the distribution of coupons. An event is held for each product, that is, each event is associated with each product. In this embodiment, it is possible to confirm that automatic ordering has been stopped during the event period by checking the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160. A specific description is given below.

[0059] The acquisition unit 601 acquires event information and automatic ordering information. The event information is information including products that are the subject of a sales event and the period of the event. For example, as shown in the shelf label information DB101, the event information indicates "June 8th to June 12th" for the product "XX yogurt." Furthermore, the automatic ordering information indicates whether automatic ordering is being performed or is stopped for each product. For example, as shown in the shelf label information DB101, the automatic ordering information indicates that automatic ordering is stopped for the product "XX yogurt" on June 10th.

[0060] The display instruction unit 603 identifies products for which automatic ordering has been suspended during the event period among the products that are the subject of the event, based on the event information and the automatic ordering information. Furthermore, the display instruction unit 603 instructs the electronic shelf label 160 corresponding to the product to display a display mode indicating this (hereinafter referred to as the "automatic ordering suspension mode"). Upon receiving the display instruction from the wireless indicator 150, the electronic shelf label 160 displays the product in the automatic ordering suspension mode.

[0061] As a result, when the handheld terminal device 140 receives an operation to start checking for the suspension of automatic ordering, or at a specific timing during the pre-set closing time, the electronic shelf labels 160 of products for which automatic ordering has been suspended can all be displayed in the automatic ordering suspended mode at once. This allows the store clerk to easily know that automatic ordering has been suspended just by checking the automatic ordering suspended mode. On the other hand, when the electronic shelf labels 160 are not displayed in the automatic ordering suspended mode, it is easy to know that automatic ordering has not been suspended.

[0062] (Regarding the urging to resume automatic ordering) In this embodiment, it is possible to display the electronic shelf label 160 in a display mode that prompts the user to resume automatic ordering before the end of the event period. Specifically, the display instruction unit 603 instructs the electronic shelf label 160 to display a display mode (hereinafter referred to as a "re-opening prompting mode") indicating that the event period will end a predetermined day before the end date of the event period. The predetermined day may be a date that is set in advance, such as the end date of the event period or one day before the end date. Furthermore, when the event period is one day, the display instruction unit 603 may instruct the electronic shelf label 160 to display the re-opening prompting mode on the day of the event. When the electronic shelf label 160 receives the display instruction from the wireless indicator 150, it displays in the re-opening prompting mode.

[0063] As a result, when the handheld terminal device 140 receives a confirmation start operation for resuming automatic ordering, or at a specific timing during the pre-set closing time, the electronic shelf labels 160 for products for which the event period is about to end can all be displayed in a resuming prompt mode at the same time. This makes it possible to easily prompt the store clerk to resume automatic ordering. On the other hand, if the electronic shelf labels 160 are not displayed in the resuming prompt mode, it is easy to know that automatic ordering has been resumed.

[0064] (Regarding requests to stop automatic ordering) In this embodiment, it is possible to display the electronic shelf label 160 in a display mode that prompts the user to stop automatic ordering before the start of an event period. Specifically, the display instruction unit 603 issues a display instruction to the electronic shelf label in a display mode (hereinafter referred to as a "stop prompt mode") indicating that the event period will start a predetermined day before the start date of the event period. The predetermined day may be a date that is set in advance, such as one day or two days before the start date of the event period. When the electronic shelf label 160 receives the display instruction from the wireless indicator 150, it displays in the stop prompt mode.

[0065] As a result, when the handheld terminal device 140 receives a confirmation start operation for resuming automatic ordering, or at a specific timing during the pre-set closing time, the electronic shelf labels 160 for products for which the event period is about to begin can be simultaneously displayed in a stop urging mode. This makes it easy to urge the store clerk to stop automatic ordering. On the other hand, if the electronic shelf labels 160 are not displayed in the stopped mode, it is easy to know that automatic ordering has been stopped.

[0066] A request to stop automatic ordering can be received from the handheld terminal device 140, the store controller 110, or the POP creation device 130. When stopping automatic ordering, each device searches for the applicable products (shelf label information 400) before the event period on a specified management screen, extracts products for which automatic ordering should be stopped or products for which automatic ordering should be resumed, and displays these in a list. Each device can then accept selection of all or individual products from the list, and can change various settings related to automatic ordering, such as stopping automatic ordering or resuming automatic ordering.

[0067] (Regarding display mode DB152) Next, the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160 will be described with reference to FIG. 8A and FIG. FIG. 8A is a diagram showing an example of the display mode DB 152 included in the wireless indicator 150. As shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode of the electronic shelf label 160. As shown in FIG. First, a supplementary premise regarding the display of the electronic shelf label 160 will be provided. A product code is associated with the shelf label ID. In addition, in the setting of the display layout (display format), it is possible to set the display mode. In the display layout, a "notification content display arrangement area" is reserved in advance, and it is possible to display a character string (such as a product name and price corresponding to a product code) in the area as the notification content. Instructions regarding the background color, etc. of the LED lamp 161 and the display 162 can be arbitrarily instructed. In other words, in the setting of the display layout, a display layout in which a notification content display arrangement area is not set may be selected. In this case, the character string in the notification content display arrangement area will not be displayed. In addition, in this case, it is also possible to make it an error of the display update instruction. In the following, in order to simplify the explanation, it is explained as a combination of the display modes of the LED lamp 161 and the display 162.

[0068] 8A, the display mode DB 152 includes items of “display mode No.” and “display mode.” By inputting data into each item, display mode information 800 (800a to 800e) is stored as a record. "Display mode No." is identification information assigned to each display mode. The "display mode" indicates the notification content to be notified to the store clerk and the display mode of the LED lamp 161 or the display 162.

[0069] The display mode information 800a is an ordered mode, for example, a display mode in which the LED lamp 161 lights up in red (see FIG. 9(A)). The display mode information 800b is a delay mode, for example, a display mode in which the LED lamp 161 lights up in yellow. The display mode information 800c is an automatic order suspension mode, for example, a display mode in which the LED lamp 161 lights up in green. The display mode information 800e is a re-opening prompt mode, for example, a display mode in which the LED lamp 161 flashes green (see FIG. 9B). The display mode information 800f is a stop urging mode, for example, a display mode in which the background color of the display 162 is green (see FIG. 9(C)).

[0070] The display mode may include a display mode indicating that the order has not been placed. That is, the display instruction unit 603 may instruct to display a display mode indicating that the order has not been placed. The display mode indicating that the order has not been placed is, for example, a mode in which the LED lamp 161 lights up in blue. This allows the store clerk to confirm that the order has not been placed by the lighting mode of the LED lamp 161.

[0071] The display mode is not limited to the lighting mode of the LED lamp 161 or the background color of the display 162. For example, the display mode may be a mode in which a predetermined mark such as "●" or "▲" is displayed on the display 162. The display mode may also include the size of characters displayed on the display 162, the font of the characters, and the like. The display mode may also include a mode in which the blinking speed of the LED lamp 161 is different. Each display mode can also be changed in response to an operation by a store clerk, etc.

[0072] For example, when the electronic shelf label 160 displays the LED lamp 161 in each display mode, the electronic shelf label 160 may also display a mark (delay mark) indicating each notification content at a predetermined position on the display 162. Furthermore, the electronic shelf label 160 may continue to display the mark indicating each notification content on the display 162 even after the LED lamp 161 is turned off. In this way, for example, even if a store clerk receives an inquiry about the stock status directly from a customer at each sales floor, the store clerk can immediately know that the order has been placed or that the order is delayed, and can immediately respond to the customer. Furthermore, when the next delivery date is known, the electronic shelf label 160 may display the next delivery date on the display 162. The display may be switchable between display and non-display according to a setting operation by the handy terminal device 140 or the like.

[0073] (Display process related to ordered items performed by the wireless indicator 150) Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a display process related to an ordered state performed by the wireless indicator 150. In Fig. 10, the wireless indicator 150 judges whether or not an instruction to start displaying the ordered state has been received from the shelf label management server 100 (step S1001). The wireless indicator 150 waits until the instruction to start displaying is received (step S1001: NO), and upon receiving the instruction to start displaying (step S1001: YES), identifies one electronic shelf label 160 from among the multiple electronic shelf labels 160 in the arrangement area (step S1002).

[0074] Then, the wireless indicator 150 refers to the shelf label information 400 in the shelf label information DB 151 and acquires the order information of the product corresponding to the electronic shelf label 160 (step S1003). Then, the wireless indicator 150 determines whether the order information indicates that an order has been placed (step S1004). If the order information does not indicate that an order has been placed (step S1004: NO), that is, if an order has not been placed, the wireless indicator 150 does not transmit a display instruction to the electronic shelf label 160 and proceeds to the process of step S1010.

[0075] On the other hand, if the order information indicates that the order has been placed (step S1004: YES), the wireless indicator 150 identifies the electronic shelf label 160 that corresponds to the product (step S1005). Then, the wireless indicator 150 refers to the shelf label information 400 in the shelf label information DB 151 and acquires delay information for the product (step S1006). Then, the wireless indicator 150 determines whether the delay information indicates a delivery delay (step S1007).

[0076] If the delay information does not indicate a delivery delay (step S1007: NO), that is, if the delivery is to be made normally, the wireless indicator 150 instructs the electronic shelf label 160 to display the ordered state (step S1008) and proceeds to step S1010. On the other hand, if the delay information indicates a delivery delay (step S1007: YES), the wireless indicator 150 instructs the electronic shelf label 160 to display the delayed state (step S1009).

[0077] Then, the wireless indicator 150 judges whether or not the present display instruction control (the processing relating to steps S1003 to S1009) has been performed for all of the update targets (the multiple electronic shelf labels 160 for which the range has been specified) in the arrangement area (step S1010). Note that when the range of all of the electronic shelf labels 160 in the store has been specified, all of the electronic shelf labels 160 become update targets. In step S1010, if the present display instruction control has been performed for the electronic shelf label 160 to be updated (step S1010: YES), the wireless indicator 150 ends the series of processing. On the other hand, if the present display instruction control has not been performed for the electronic shelf label 160 to be updated (step S1010: NO), the wireless indicator 150 identifies other electronic shelf labels 160 to be subject to the present display instruction control (step S1011), and repeats the processing of steps S1003 to S1010.

[0078] The display instructions are issued separately to the LED lamp 161 and the display 162. For example, when display 162 is to be displayed in a delayed mode, the wireless indicator 150 issues an instruction relating to display update indicating the delayed mode. Also, the wireless indicator 150 issues a lighting instruction indicating a lighting mode to the LED lamp 161.

[0079] In the above description, an example has been described in which one electronic shelf label 160 that is the target of the display instruction control is identified and a display instruction is repeatedly issued to the one electronic shelf label 160, but this is not limiting. For example, the display instruction may be transmitted to all electronic shelf labels 160 at once. That is, the wireless indicator 150 may determine the display mode for all electronic shelf labels 160 that are the target of the display instruction control, and then issue a display instruction to all of the target electronic shelf labels 160 at once. Note that the wireless indicator 150 does not issue a display instruction to electronic shelf labels 160 that are not the target.

[0080] (Display process related to orders during events performed by the wireless indicator 150) Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a display process related to an order at the time of an event, which is performed by the wireless indicator 150. In Fig. 11, the wireless indicator 150 judges whether or not a display start instruction related to an order at the time of an event has been received from the shelf label management server 100 (step S1101). The wireless indicator 150 waits until the display start instruction is received (step S1101: NO), and upon receiving the display start instruction (step S1101: YES), identifies one electronic shelf label 160 among the electronic shelf labels 160 in the arrangement area (control target) (step S1102).

[0081] Then, the wireless indicator 150 refers to the shelf label information 400 in the shelf label information DB 151 and acquires the event information of the product (step S1103). Then, the wireless indicator 150 determines whether or not the target period includes the event period and a predetermined number of days before the event period (step S1104). If the target period is not included (step S1104: NO), the wireless indicator 150 does not transmit a display instruction to the electronic shelf label 160 and proceeds to the process of step S1112.

[0082] On the other hand, if it is within the target period (step S1104: YES), the wireless indicator 150 identifies the electronic shelf label 160 corresponding to the product (step S1105). Then, the wireless indicator 150 determines whether it is a predetermined number of days before the end of the event for the product (step S1106). If it is a predetermined number of days before the end of the event for the product (step S1106: YES), the wireless indicator 150 determines whether automatic ordering has been resumed (step S1107). If automatic ordering has been resumed (step S1107: YES), the wireless indicator 150 does not transmit a display instruction to the electronic shelf label 160, and proceeds to the process of step S1112.

[0083] On the other hand, if the automatic ordering has not been resumed (step S1107: NO), the wireless indicator 150 instructs the electronic shelf label 160 to display a prompt to resume ordering (step S1108), and the process proceeds to step S1112.

[0084] The wireless indicator 150 can also display and instruct based on whether it is a specific day before the end of the event and on the order cycle. For example, assume that the order cycle is Monday and Wednesday, and the event period is until Friday of this week. In this assumption, if today is Thursday (one day before the end of the event), the resumption of automatic ordering is set, and the resumption of automatic ordering is urged from the following week. On the other hand, in this assumption, if the resumption of automatic ordering is set when today is Tuesday (three days before the end of the event), automatic ordering will be resumed within the event period (the following Wednesday), so the resumption of automatic ordering is not urged. In this way, the wireless indicator 150 can urge the resumption of automatic ordering when the next order cycle is not within the event period.

[0085] In step S1106, if it is not the specified day before the event end date for the product (step S1106: NO), that is, if it is a period excluding the period before the specified day before the event end date within the target period, the wireless indicator 150 determines whether automatic ordering is suspended for the product (step S1109). If automatic ordering is suspended (step S1109: YES), the wireless indicator 150 instructs the electronic shelf label 160 to display the automatic ordering suspension mode (step S1110) and proceeds to step S1112.

[0086] On the other hand, if the automatic ordering is not stopped (step S1109: NO), the wireless indicator 150 instructs the electronic shelf label 160 to display a stop prompting mode (step S1111).

[0087] The wireless indicator 150 then determines whether or not the main display instruction control (the processing relating to steps S1103 to S1111) has been performed for all of the electronic shelf labels 160 to be updated (the multiple electronic shelf labels 160 for which a range has been specified) in the arrangement area (step S1112). If the main display instruction control has been performed for the electronic shelf label 160 to be updated (step S1112: YES), the wireless indicator 150 ends the series of processing. On the other hand, if the main display instruction control has not been performed for the electronic shelf label 160 to be updated (step S1112: NO), the wireless indicator 150 identifies other electronic shelf labels 160 to be subjected to the main display instruction control (step S1113) and repeats the processing of steps S1103 to S1112.

[0088] 11, similarly to the supplementary information in Fig. 10, the wireless indicator 150 may transmit display instructions to the electronic shelf labels 160 simultaneously to all of the electronic shelf labels 160. In other words, the wireless indicator 150 may determine the display modes for all of the electronic shelf labels 160 that are the targets of the display instruction control, and then issue display instructions to all of the electronic shelf labels 160 simultaneously.

[0089] As described above, when the acquired ordering information indicates that an order has been placed, the wireless indicator 150 according to this embodiment identifies the electronic shelf label 160 associated with the product indicated by the ordering information, and instructs the identified electronic shelf label 160 to display the ordered state. This allows the electronic shelf label 160 to display the ordered state or a display state indicating that the product has not been ordered. Therefore, when there is a product with a small display quantity, the store clerk can easily check whether the product has been ordered from the display state of the electronic shelf label 160. In other words, it is not necessary to check whether each product has been ordered by displaying it on the handheld terminal device 140 or the store controller 110. This reduces the workload of the store clerk involved in checking whether a product has been ordered.

[0090] Moreover, the wireless indicator 150 according to the present embodiment acquires delay information indicating whether or not the delivery of an ordered product will be delayed from normal, and when the delay information indicates a delay in delivery, instructs the electronic shelf label 160 to display the delay mode. This allows the electronic shelf label 160 to display the delay mode. Therefore, when there is a product with a small number of products on display, the store clerk can easily check whether or not there is a delivery delay from the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160. This reduces the work load of the store clerk involved in checking whether or not there is a delivery delay. Furthermore, when a customer inquires about a delivery date, even a store clerk who does not know about the delivery can immediately inform the customer that a delivery delay has occurred. In other words, the store clerk can inform the customer that the product is not simply out of stock.

[0091] Furthermore, the wireless indicator 150 according to the present embodiment identifies products for which automatic ordering has been suspended during the event period among products that are the subject of the event, based on the event information and the automatic ordering information, and issues an instruction to display the automatic ordering suspension mode on the electronic shelf label corresponding to the identified product. This allows the electronic shelf label 160 to display the product in the automatic ordering suspension mode. Therefore, the store clerk can easily check whether or not automatic ordering has been suspended for a product that is the subject of the event from the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160. This reduces the workload of the store clerk in checking whether or not automatic ordering has been suspended during the event period. Furthermore, when the number of products on display during the event is reduced, it is also possible to place an additional order (manual order) to supplement the product.

[0092] Furthermore, the wireless indicator 150 according to this embodiment instructs the electronic shelf label 160 to display in a re-opening prompting manner, indicating that the event period will end, a predetermined number of days before the end date of the event period. This allows the electronic shelf label 160 to display in a re-opening prompting manner. Therefore, for products that are the subject of the event, a store clerk can easily check from the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160 whether automatic ordering has resumed near the end of the event period. This reduces the workload of the store clerk in checking whether automatic ordering has resumed near the end of the event period.

[0093] Furthermore, the wireless indicator 150 according to this embodiment instructs the electronic shelf label 160 to display in a stop prompting manner, indicating that the event period will start, a predetermined number of days before the start date of the event period. This allows the electronic shelf label 160 to display in a stop prompting manner. Therefore, for products that are the subject of the event, before the start of the event period, the store clerk can easily check from the display manner of the electronic shelf label 160 whether automatic ordering has been stopped or not. This reduces the workload of the store clerk in checking whether automatic ordering has been stopped or not before the start of the event period.

[0094] (Modification of the embodiment) Modifications of the embodiment will be described below. Note that in the following modifications, the contents described in the above-mentioned embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. In addition, the above-mentioned embodiment and each of the following modifications can be appropriately combined.

[0095] (Variation 1) In the above-described embodiment, the wireless indicator 150 has been described as an example of an electronic shelf label control device. Instead of or in addition to such a configuration, it is also possible to use the shelf label management server 100 as an example of an electronic shelf label control device. Specifically, it is also possible for the shelf label management server 100 to include the functional units of an acquisition unit 601, an identification unit 602, and a display instruction unit 603, as well as a display mode DB 152, and to control the electronic shelf label 160. More specifically, when the acquired order information indicates that an order has been placed, the shelf label management server 100 identifies the electronic shelf label 160 associated with the product indicated by the order information, and issues an instruction to the identified electronic shelf label 160 to display the ordered mode.

[0096] In this case, the wireless indicator 150 may simply function as a repeater. In other words, the wireless indicator 150 may not include the above-mentioned functional units, the shelf label information DB 151, and the display mode DB 152. The wireless indicator 150 may also include some of the above-mentioned functional units (for example, only a display instruction unit) and only control the electronic shelf label 160 with respect to display instructions.

[0097] The shelf label management server 100 may also be configured to have the functions of the POP creation device 130. In other words, the shelf label management system 1 does not have to include the POP creation device 130. The shelf label management server 100 may also be configured to have some of the functions of the POP creation device 130 (for example, only the function of managing the POP advertisement 141). In this case, the POP creation device 130 may have the other functions excluding the some of the functions (for example, the function of managing the price card 142 and the fresh perishable POP 143).

[0098] Even with the configuration of the first modified example, the electronic shelf label 160 can display the product in an on-order state. Therefore, when there is a product with a small amount of display quantity, the store clerk can easily check whether or not the product has been on order from the display state of the electronic shelf label 160. This reduces the workload of the store clerk in checking whether or not the product has been on order.

[0099] (Variation 2) Next, a second modification will be described. In the second modification, the information stored in each device of the shelf label management system 1 differs from that in the above-described embodiment. In the second modification, the store controller 110 stores event information included in the shelf label information 400. In other words, the shelf label information 400 stored in the shelf label information DB 101 of the shelf label management server 100 does not include event information. The store controller 110 includes a product master for shelf label management and a special sale plan master. The product master for shelf label management stores data items required for displaying the electronic shelf labels 160 and data items required for creating the POP advertisement 141 and the like. The special sale plan master stores sale information indicating whether or not there is a sale for each product, and event information.

[0100] The shelf label management server 100 receives a product master for shelf label management from the store controller 110. At that time, the shelf label management server 100 also receives a special sale plan master (sale information) from the store controller 110. The shelf label management server 100 also stores a layout number indicating the layout of the electronic shelf label 160. The layout number is associated with each display such as a normal price display and a special sale price display. The shelf label management server 100 identifies the layout number of the electronic shelf label 160 based on the special sale plan master (sale information) received from the store controller, and transmits the identified layout number to the wireless indicator 150.

[0101] The wireless indicator 150 issues display instructions to the electronic shelf label 160 based on instructions from an external device such as the shelf label management server 100 or the handy terminal device 140. The wireless indicator 150 manages the display items of the electronic shelf label 160 (display 162) and the lighting state of the LED lamp 161. Specifically, when the wireless indicator 150 receives a layout number from the shelf label management server 100, it identifies the display items from the layout number and further acquires product information from the product code associated with the display items. The wireless indicator 150 then issues display instructions to the electronic shelf label 160 for the layout (normal price display or special price display) and the product information.

[0102] Furthermore, the wireless indicator 150 stores information indicating the display mode (such as an ordered mode) of the LED lamp 161. The wireless indicator 150 selects a display mode based on an instruction from the shelf label management server 100, and issues a display instruction to the LED lamp 161. Furthermore, if the wireless indicator 150 has a timing function, it transmits a turn-off instruction to the electronic shelf label 160 when a predetermined lighting period has elapsed. This allows the LED lamp 161 to display in a predetermined display mode and also to be turned off. Even in the configuration of the second modification, the electronic shelf label 160 can be caused to display in a predetermined display mode such as an ordered mode.

[0103] (Variation 3) Next, a shelf label management system 1 according to Modification 3 will be described. In Modification 3, an example will be described in which electronic shelf labels 160 that are the subject of display instructions are assigned in advance to each staff member in charge of each sales floor (department). In Modification 3, the electronic shelf label control device is realized by, for example, a wireless indicator 150, but it can also be realized by the shelf label management server 100.

[0104] The shelf label management system 1 according to the third modification includes at least a mobile communication terminal, a wireless indicator 150, and an electronic shelf label 160. The mobile communication terminal is a terminal device carried by a store clerk, and is, for example, a handheld terminal device 140, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal. The mobile communication terminal acquires store clerk information (store clerk ID) that identifies the store clerk. For example, the mobile communication terminal acquires the store clerk ID by accepting a login from the store clerk. Furthermore, when the mobile communication terminal accepts a confirmation start operation including the type of notification content to be confirmed (ordered, delayed, suspended, etc.), it transmits information indicating the notification content to be confirmed together with the store clerk ID.

[0105] Wireless indicator 150 includes the following functional units: a store clerk information acquisition unit, a setting information acquisition unit, and a display instruction unit 603. Each functional unit is realized by CPU 201 included in wireless indicator 150. The store clerk information acquisition unit acquires the store clerk ID transmitted from the mobile communication terminal.

[0106] Here, the store clerk shelf label management DB will be described with reference to FIG. 8B. 8B is a diagram showing an example of a clerk shelf label management DB 820. The clerk shelf label management DB 820 is provided in the shelf label management server 100, but may also be provided in the wireless indicator 150. The clerk management DB 820 includes fields for "clerk ID," "department," and "shelf label ID." By inputting data into each field, clerk shelf label management information is stored as a record. The "clerk ID" is identification information for identifying a clerk. "Classification" is the classification (department) of a product. "Shelf label ID" is identification information that identifies the shelf label.

[0107] As shown in the figure, for example, multiple shelf label IDs are assigned to one clerk ID. The multiple shelf label IDs indicate shelf labels assigned to product shelves in a category (department) entrusted to the responsible staff member (the clerk indicated by the clerk ID). For example, when the clerk ID is "s001", it indicates that the shelf label IDs "e001" and "e004" are assigned to the category "confectionery". This makes it possible to display electronic shelf labels 160 indicating the shelf label IDs "e001" and "e004" assigned to the category "confectionery" to the clerk with the clerk ID "s001".

[0108] The setting information acquisition unit acquires setting information indicating the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160. The setting information includes, for example, display mode information 800 (FIG. 8A). The setting information may set a different display mode for each store clerk. For example, a red light on the LED lamp 161 may indicate an ordered mode for store clerk A and a delayed mode for store clerk B. The setting information may also include a type of notification content to be confirmed instead of or in addition to the display mode. For example, the setting information may be set to a type of notification content indicating an ordered mode for store clerk A and a type of notification content indicating a delay for store clerk B.

[0109] Furthermore, the setting information may include information indicating the electronic shelf label 160 to be displayed instead of or in addition to the display mode. The information indicating the electronic shelf label 160 to be displayed is, for example, the range or classification of the numbers of the electronic shelf labels 160. The range or classification may be set in advance, or may be received from a store clerk who has logged in to the mobile communication terminal. The mobile communication terminal specifies the range or classification by setting it in advance or receiving it from the store clerk.

[0110] The display instruction unit 603 issues a predetermined display instruction to the target electronic shelf label according to the setting information acquired by the setting information acquisition unit. The predetermined display instruction is an instruction to display in various display modes such as an ordered mode, a delayed mode, etc. The display instruction unit 603 issues a predetermined display instruction according to the setting information to the electronic shelf label 160 indicated by the shelf label ID associated with the store clerk ID acquired by the store clerk information acquisition unit.

[0111] For example, when a store clerk ID "s001" (FIG. 8B) logs in to a mobile communication terminal and performs a confirmation start operation, the display instruction unit 603 issues a display instruction to each electronic shelf label 160 associated with the classification of sweets and dry goods in a predetermined display mode. As a result, the electronic shelf labels 160 for the classification handled by that store clerk are displayed in the predetermined display mode.

[0112] In this way, in the third modification, the mobile communication terminal can specify the range of electronic shelf labels 160 to be displayed based on the classification and authority preset for the logged-in store clerk, and can display the electronic shelf labels 160 in that range. For example, when a store clerk in charge of sweets logs in, the mobile communication terminal can specify electronic shelf labels 160 with only the classification of sweets as the display target, and can display the electronic shelf labels 160. The mobile communication terminal can also specify electronic shelf labels 160 to be displayed by accepting an arbitrary classification and shelf label ID from the logged-in store clerk, and can display the electronic shelf labels 160.

[0113] In addition, in the third modification, the mobile communication terminal can display the electronic shelf label 160 in a predetermined display mode by simply accepting a single operation indicating the start of confirmation (with one touch) without accepting a designation of the electronic shelf label 160 to be displayed. Note that the mobile communication terminal can also hide the displayed electronic shelf label 160 with a single operation by displaying a button for accepting hiding.

[0114] Furthermore, the store clerk shelf label management DB 820 (FIG. 8B) may include a "lane number" item instead of or in addition to the "category" item. The lane number is a number indicating an aisle in a sales floor. In this manner, the display instruction unit 603 can display the electronic shelf label 160 assigned to the lane number. Note that the mobile communication terminal can also receive the lane number and specify the electronic shelf label 160 corresponding to the received lane number as the display target. Also, by setting the lane number in advance as setting information, the mobile communication terminal can also specify the electronic shelf label 160 corresponding to the set lane number as the display target without receiving the lane number from the store clerk (for example, with a single operation).

[0115] Also, as for the display mode, if the color, lighting, blinking, blinking speed, etc. are set in advance as setting information as the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160 according to the operation of each display instruction, the labor hours required for the store clerk to operate the mobile communication terminal can be reduced. For example, as a setting screen for setting information on the mobile communication terminal, a screen that accepts setting contents such as "processing contents (e.g., display instruction for automatic order completion) / color: (red / blue / green) / blinking (select from lighting / blinking / off) / blinking speed (number of seconds) and fast or slow if blinking" may be displayed. Also, the blinking speed may be set by accepting one of multiple stages (1 to 5) indicating the speed.

[0116] These setting targets include the LED lamp 161 and the display 162. In the case of the display 162, the display mode of the mark and the background color can be set as setting targets. These settings may be fixed by presetting, or may be changeable by receiving a setting change from a store clerk as appropriate (for example, each time).

[0117] Furthermore, when multiple store clerks are performing confirmation operations in adjacent areas, the mobile communication terminal may report this fact. Specifically, the contents received by the mobile communication terminal from the store clerk are transmitted to the shelf label management server 100 and managed in the shelf label management server 100. The shelf label management server 100 determines whether multiple store clerks are performing operations in adjacent areas based on the contents. If a positive determination is obtained in the determination, the shelf label management server 100 transmits information indicating this to the mobile communication terminals in each area. Upon receiving the information, the mobile communication terminal reports this fact. This allows each store clerk to know that another store clerk is performing a confirmation operation in an adjacent area.

[0118] If the checking operations performed by multiple store clerks in adjacent areas are checking operations that use the same display mode, a notification to that effect may be issued. In this case, in the notification, the mobile communication terminal may display a dialogue asking whether or not to change the display mode, and may accept the change of the display mode. This allows, for example, when different staff members check half of the same aisle (lane), the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160 to be changed for each staff member. This allows the checking operations of each staff member to be performed efficiently.

[0119] In this way, when the mobile communication terminal accepts a login from a store clerk, it can specify the electronic shelf labels 160 to be displayed and specify the processing content (e.g., an instruction to display "automatically ordered"), and set the "display mode," even without accepting a designation of the range of electronic shelf labels 160 to be displayed. Also, by displaying the processing content and the display mode on the screen of the mobile communication terminal, the store clerk can easily confirm which display mode indicates which processing content. Note that, although the above explanation has been given using the ordered mode as an example, display modes other than the ordered mode can also be similarly displayed according to the settings.

[0120] As described above, the shelf label management system 1 according to the third modification performs a predetermined display instruction according to the setting information on the electronic shelf label 160 indicated by the shelf label ID associated with the clerk ID of the clerk who has logged in to the mobile communication terminal. This allows the clerk to operate the mobile communication terminal to display the electronic shelf label 160 in a desired display mode, such as "ordered," "delayed," or "suspended." This reduces the workload of the clerk in checking whether or not a product has been ordered.

[0121] In the third modification, the clerk shelf label management DB 820 is provided, but it is also possible to use an existing data table (DB) without providing the clerk shelf label management DB 820. A supplementary explanation on this point is provided. The shelf label management system 1 is provided with a clerk master. The clerk master is provided, for example, in the store controller 110. The clerk master stores information about the clerk. The information about the clerk is information that associates the clerk ID (clerk code), the clerk name, authority (when the operating authority differs between a manager, a general clerk, and a part-time worker, etc.), and a classification (department code). Since the clerk ID is associated with a department in the clerk master, it is possible to identify which classification (department code) the clerk is associated with from the clerk (clerk ID) who issued the display command.

[0122] The product master also stores information associating product codes with classifications (departments). Furthermore, the shelf label information DB 101 (FIG. 4) stores information associating product codes with shelf label IDs. Therefore, when a store clerk issues a display instruction, it is possible to identify the classification (department code) from the store clerk ID, identify the target product code from the department code, and further identify the electronic shelf label 160 that is the target of the display instruction from the product code and shelf label ID. This makes it possible to issue a display instruction to the electronic shelf label 160 that corresponds to the store clerk by using an existing data table (DB).

[0123] The functions of each device included in the shelf label management system 1 will be explained in more detail below.

[0124] (POP creation device 130) The POP creation device 130 performs printing layout, creation, editing, and management of various paper media (POP advertisement 141, price card 142, and fresh food POP 143). When issuing the POP advertisement 141 and the price card 142, the POP creation device 130 searches for products in response to the operation of the store clerk, and further edits the data and prints. When printing, the POP creation device 130 displays the event period (date) indicated by the event information, and can accept and print dates after the current date. In addition to this, when printing, the POP creation device 130 can also search for events by accepting an event code or name indicating an event, and print various paper media for products corresponding to the accepted event from the searched list.

[0125] Furthermore, when the POP creation device 130 receives the product master via the shelf label management server 100, it can extract products whose selling prices have changed and display the extracted products as a selectable print list. Furthermore, the POP creation device 130 can also accept designation of shelf numbers (in location number order) and aisle numbers of display shelves according to departments and display shelf layouts. This makes it possible to print various paper media by shelf, shelf number, and aisle number.

[0126] The POP creation device 130 can also accept the specification of search conditions indicating "product search" on the operation screen and print out the search results all at once. The POP creation device 130 can also edit the print image of various paper media when printing. Furthermore, the POP creation device 130 can also perform "barcode search" to search for each item, and "reserved item search" to search reserved item data. Reserved item data is data indicating items scheduled to have their selling prices changed, or data indicating new items scheduled to be added.

[0127] The POP advertisement 141, the price card 142, and the fresh POP 143 are paper media and therefore need to be printed in advance. For this reason, the POP creation device 130 can print the target paper media in advance by receiving a designation of the date of use of the target paper media. Note that printing on the POP creation device 130 can also be performed by instructions from an information communication terminal such as a handheld terminal device 140 (a portable terminal such as a smartphone or tablet).

[0128] For example, the handy terminal device 140 can read barcodes printed on various paper media (POP advertisement 141, price card 142, and fresh food POP 143) and issue a printing instruction for a product identified by the barcode. In addition, for a product identified by reading the barcode, if the number (frequency) of price changes is equal to or greater than a threshold (for example, 5 times or more per month), the handy terminal device 140 may issue a notification to encourage a change from the price card 142 to the electronic shelf label 160.

[0129] (Change from price card 142 to electronic shelf label 160) The procedure for changing from the price card 142 to the electronic shelf label 160 will be described. For example, a store clerk brings an unused electronic shelf label 160 and has the handheld terminal device 140 register the electronic shelf label 160. When registering the electronic shelf label 160, the handheld terminal device 140 inputs an identification number of the electronic shelf label 160. The identification number is input by acquiring the electronic shelf label 160 through NFC (Near Field Communication), reading a barcode affixed to the electronic shelf label 160, or manually inputting the code.

[0130] Furthermore, in registering the electronic shelf label 160, the handy terminal device 140 accepts the designation of the product and the designation of the display layout. Then, when the registration of the electronic shelf label 160 is completed, the handy terminal device 140 transmits the registered data to the shelf label management server 100. The shelf label management server 100 refers to the product master and event information, and transmits a display instruction of the display data to the wireless indicator 150. The wireless indicator 150 transmits a display instruction to the electronic shelf label 160 based on the update instruction. In this way, the store clerk can change from the price card 142 to the electronic shelf label 160 on the sales floor.

[0131] Factors for deciding whether to switch from the price card 142 to the electronic shelf label 160 include the number (frequency) of price changes, as well as non-act information managed by the store controller 110. Non-act information is information indicating that there have been no sales for a specified period of time. For products for which the price card 142 has been printed many times, the electronic shelf label 160 is more suitable. On the other hand, for products for which the display data of the electronic shelf label 160 is updated infrequently, the price card 142 is more suitable. However, since paper media can improve the appeal of the product, they may be used in combination with the electronic shelf label 160. Also, even if the number of price changes is above a threshold, only paper media may be used from the viewpoint of improving appeal.

[0132] When the identification number of the electronic shelf label 160 is input, the handy terminal device 140 can specify the electronic shelf label 160 by inquiring of the shelf label management server 100 or the wireless indicator 150. The handy terminal device 140 can generate update instruction data for the specified electronic shelf label 160 by accepting a selection and designation of the display contents (product and display layout). When the update instruction data is generated in the handy terminal device 140, the update instruction data is transmitted to the electronic shelf label 160 via the shelf label management server 100 and the wireless indicator 150. When the electronic shelf label 160 receives the update instruction data, it changes the display mode according to the update instruction data. The handy terminal device 140 may transmit an instruction to update the display data directly to the wireless indicator 150 without going through the shelf label management server 100.

[0133] (Wireless indicator 150 and electronic shelf label 160) The wireless indicator 150 has the same functions as the POP creation device 130. The wireless indicator 150 can create, edit, and delete a plurality of display layouts for each size of the electronic shelf label 160. The size of the electronic shelf label 160 is one of a plurality of sizes. The plurality of sizes are, for example, 1.54 inches, 2.7 inches, and the like. The wireless indicator 150 can also manage the electronic shelf labels 160 by size (for example, small size, medium size, large size).

[0134] The electronic shelf label 160 is one of a plurality of types. The plurality of types include a fresh food type, a normal type, a frozen food type, and the like. When the fresh food type or normal type electronic shelf label 160 is used in a frozen food display shelf, the battery deteriorates significantly. For this reason, it is not desirable to use the fresh food type or normal type electronic shelf label 160 in a frozen food display shelf. Although it is possible to use the frozen food type electronic shelf label 160 in a normal temperature display shelf, the frozen food type electronic shelf label 160 is more expensive than the normal type electronic shelf label 160 because it can be displayed without problems at low temperatures. For this reason, the frozen food type electronic shelf label 160 has an appearance different from the normal type electronic shelf label 160 so that it can be visually distinguished. For this reason, if the normal type electronic shelf label 160 and the frozen food type electronic shelf label 160 are mixed in a normal temperature display shelf, the electronic shelf labels 160 will not have a uniform look, which will not leave a good impression on customers. Furthermore, if the regular type is used in a freezer case, it will not display correctly or the display will not be able to be updated, which may cause a malfunction.

[0135] The fresh produce type is linked to information from the weighing / packaging / pricing device 120. In particular, the fresh produce type tends to be large in size when used in fruit and vegetable sections.

[0136] The wireless indicator 150 manages each electronic shelf label 160 by linking it to the type and size of the electronic shelf label 160. If the electronic shelf labels 160 are not placed in the right places, the wireless indicator 150 displays the electronic shelf labels 160 in a display mode indicating that fact. For example, if fresh or normal type electronic shelf labels 160 are placed on a display shelf for frozen foods, the wireless indicator 150 displays the electronic shelf labels 160 in a display mode indicating that fact (a mode indicating an error). This makes it possible to encourage store clerks to place the electronic shelf labels 160 in the right places.

[0137] Furthermore, each device (for example, the shelf label management server 100, the handheld terminal device 140, and the wireless indicator 150) can also set the type of electronic shelf label 160 that can be used by classification using the classification settings of the product master. In this case, when an electronic shelf label 160 of a type different from the set classification is being used, the wireless indicator 150 can display the electronic shelf label 160 in a display mode indicating this (a mode indicating an error). The display mode indicating an error can be displayed, for example, at the timing of an instruction to update the display content.

[0138] The electronic shelf label 160 does not display (update) reserved product data. This is because, while the POP advertisement 141 and the price card 142 require advance preparation and therefore need to be issued based on reserved product data, the electronic shelf label 160 can update the display data before the store opens or at any other timing.

[0139] The electronic shelf label 160 displays information in a display mode that supports work (physical shelf work) in which various checks such as inventory, stock on display shelves, and expiration dates are performed, in addition to displaying event information and selling prices. For example, it is possible to display the results of various checks by the display mode of the LED lamp 161 or the display 162. Specifically, it is possible to make the LED lamp 161 flash red for products with a stock quantity equal to or greater than a certain value, and make the LED lamp 161 flash yellow for products with an expiration date (or expiry date) approaching.

[0140] The expiration date is managed by a higher-level device (shelf label management server 100 or store controller 110). For example, during inventory, the handy terminal device 140 is operated by a store clerk to input the nearest expiration date of the products on the display shelves. The handy terminal device 140 may also input the number of items in stock for each expiration date. The handy terminal device 140 transmits the input information on the expiration date to the higher-level device. This allows the higher-level device to manage the expiration dates.

[0141] (Shelf label management server 100) The shelf label management server 100 can instruct the wireless indicator 150 to update the display data for the product master (including the selling price master), reserved product data, and event information on a specified application date. For example, the shelf label management server 100 instructs the wireless indicator 150 to update the display data at a specified timing before the store opens, or at any timing if the store is open 24 hours a day. The update instruction includes information indicating a change in the selling price and information on the design (such as a change in mark, character string, or font) to announce the sale in a sale display layout for which a display layout number is specified from the sale category.

[0142] The shelf label management server 100 can also issue print instructions to the POP creation device 130. Note that print instructions to the POP creation device 130 and display data update instructions to the wireless indicator 150 can also be issued from another information communication terminal such as a handheld terminal device 140 (a portable terminal such as a smartphone or tablet).

[0143] (About automatic ordering) The cell one-by-one method is a method of replenishing the quantity sold from the previous order date to the day before the current order date, i.e., simply replenishing the sold amount and maintaining inventory. On the other hand, the reorder point method is a method of storing the "maximum number of items to be displayed" and the "reorder point" for each product, and when the theoretical inventory falls below the "reorder point", calculating the order quantity that will result in the maximum number of items to be displayed and placing an automatic order. The reorder point method is a method of determining the order quantity based on how much the inventory has decreased from the "reorder point" when it falls below the "reorder point". The store ordering method can also be set to order a predetermined quantity. However, when the unit of order is the number of items ordered per case or per dozen (balls), it may not be possible to place an order if the order quantity does not meet the minimum order lot quantity.

[0144] The above two ordering methods are applied to products with relatively long expiration dates. For example, for daily delivery products and other products with relatively short expiration dates, it may not be possible to order the appropriate quantity. For this reason, for daily delivery products, the ordering staff may carry out physical shelf-keeping and manually order the products.

[0145] (Regarding demand forecasts) The shelf label management system 1 can also perform demand forecasting. The demand forecasting may be performed by any of the shelf label management server 100, the store controller 110, and the like. In the demand forecasting, the PI value (a numerical value representing the sales volume per 1000 customers passing through the cash register) of each product is calculated from past sales records and event data such as seasonal events. Furthermore, the demand forecast is calculated by AI (artificial intelligence) based on future (up to 7 days later) weather forecasts (temperature, humidity, wind, pollen), event data, PI values, and the like. The calculation of the order quantity based on the demand forecast can be confirmed or edited on the screen. In addition, it is also possible to switch ON / OFF of automatic ordering based on the calculation results on the screen.

[0146] (Display instructions for electronic shelf tag 160) The wireless indicator 150 can also change the display mode of the electronic shelf labels 160 depending on whether an order is placed on the same day or the previous day (ordered in the past and awaiting delivery), for example. The wireless indicator 150 also transmits an instruction to update display data to the electronic shelf labels 160 on an aisle or department basis, for example, before the store opens. The shelf label management server 100 and the wireless indicator 150 may have a schedule setting function and transmit display instructions (including update instructions) to all the electronic shelf labels 160 at a predetermined timing indicated by a preset schedule.

[0147] The handy terminal device 140 can also specify an aisle, a department, and a range of product codes to issue display instructions to the electronic shelf labels 160. The range specification of product codes includes specification by manufacturer, and if a specific flag is set, specification of a department or category by the flag. By specifying the range, it is possible to issue display instructions for a specified portion of the electronic shelf labels 160. In other words, it is possible to display a portion of the electronic shelf labels 160 in a specified display mode (for example, an on-order mode).

[0148] Also, for example, when the electronic shelf label 160 of a product that was ordered the previous day is displayed, the store clerk checks the number of products on display while checking the display state of the electronic shelf label 160, and if the display state indicates that the product has been ordered, the check is complete. On the other hand, if the display state indicates that the product has not been ordered, the store clerk checks whether there is stock in the back yard, and can replenish the display shelves or manually order products as necessary. This makes it possible to confirm which products have been ordered with a simple check. Also, if the number of products on display is low, replenishment or manual ordering can be performed the day before. This makes it possible to prevent sales opportunities from being lost due to the number of products on display being zero.

[0149] If the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160 were not used to notify that an order has been placed, as in the past, then when the number of items on display became low, the sales clerk would have to inquire with an ordering clerk or the like about whether an order had been placed or scan the product code with the handheld terminal device 140 to check the order status and the inventory status in the back room.

[0150] In contrast, in this embodiment, by displaying an indication that an order has been placed on the display 162 of the electronic shelf label 160, the workload of the store clerk in checking whether or not an item has been ordered can be reduced. From the viewpoint of enabling a store clerk to more easily check while walking, it is preferable to emit an LED lamp 161 instead of or in addition to the indication on the display 162. The LED lamp 161 is not limited to being lit when an order has been placed, and may be lit when an order has not yet been placed.

[0151] (About making the electronic shelf label 160 display differently depending on whether an automatic order is placed or a manual order is placed) The display mode of the electronic shelf label 160 may be different between automatic ordering and manual ordering. For example, when an order has been placed automatically, the LED lamp 161 may flash red, and when an order has been placed manually, the LED lamp 161 may flash yellow. The lighting mode of the LED lamp 161 may be any lighting mode. This allows the store clerk to know about the products that have been manually ordered during an event such as a sale. In addition, the store clerk can know that automatic ordering has been stopped because a manual order has been placed. This allows the store clerk to urge the store clerk to resume automatic ordering. Furthermore, the fact that a manual order has been placed during an event such as a sale is also useful for adjusting the order quantity when placing an automatic order after the sale period ends.

[0152] (Regarding delays) As described above, in this embodiment, when an order has been placed but the wholesaler does not have stock, the electronic shelf label 160 displays the delayed display. This can be used as a trigger to check whether the order destination is changed to another wholesaler or whether transfer is possible from another store in the chain. For example, the display 162 may be switched to a predetermined mode to display a mark "e.g. ●" indicating that an order has been placed automatically, a mark "e.g. ■" indicating that an order has been placed manually, or a mark "e.g. ▲" indicating that the wholesaler is out of stock. The mode may be switched to by accepting an operation of a button provided on the electronic shelf label 160 or by energizing the NFC. The electronic shelf label 160 may always display the above display mode without the need to switch to a predetermined mode.

[0153] (Display prompting return to wholesaler (return to wholesaler)) The electronic shelf label 160 may display the product in a display mode that encourages the user to return the product if the product can be returned to a wholesaler, depending on the number of days remaining until the expiration date. Specifically, when the handy terminal device 140 accepts an input of the expiration date, it transmits information indicating the accepted expiration date to the shelf label management server 100 or the wireless indicator 150. The shelf label management server 100 or the wireless indicator 150 instructs the electronic shelf label 160 to display a display mode that encourages the user to return the product if the product can be returned to a wholesaler, depending on the number of days remaining until the expiration date of the product. As a result, the electronic shelf label 160 displays the product in a display mode that encourages the user to return the product. Therefore, if there are still days remaining until the product can be returned to the wholesaler, the product can be returned to the wholesaler, and loss of the product can be reduced.

[0154] (Display to encourage transfer to affiliated stores) Even if the number of days remaining until the expiration date is small, if the product is a best-selling product, the electronic shelf label 160 may display the product in a display mode that encourages the customer to transfer the product to another store in the same chain. Specifically, when the handy terminal device 140 accepts an input of the expiration date, it transmits information indicating the accepted expiration date to the shelf label management server 100 or the wireless indicator 150. The shelf label management server 100 or the wireless indicator 150 determines whether the product is a best-selling product, and if it is a best-selling product, issues a display instruction to the electronic shelf label 160 for a display mode that encourages the customer to transfer the product. As a result, the electronic shelf label 160 displays the product in a display mode that encourages the customer to transfer the product.

[0155] Also, the shelf label management server 100 makes an inquiry to the headquarters master device 180 via the store controller 110 or the like regarding the transfer of the product. Based on the sales record and order record of the product at other stores, the headquarters master device 180 instructs the store to stop ordering if the product has not yet been ordered at a certain store, so that the product is transferred to the store. Also, based on the sales record and order record, the headquarters master device 180 can determine whether the product is subject to store transfer or to wholesaler return. Therefore, the headquarters master device 180 can give appropriate instructions to each store according to the determination result. Also, the store controller 110 and shelf label management server 100 of each store can share the expiration date and the quantity obtained by inventory at each store. This allows ordering to be controlled throughout the company (all affiliated stores).

[0156] Furthermore, when issuing a display instruction to encourage a transfer, the shelf label management server 100 may notify the shelf label management servers of the other stores of that effect and may also notify them of the suspension of automatic ordering of the product. Furthermore, the shelf label management server 100 may notify a store clerk of the transfer request of the other store by having the other store input a desired transfer date and receiving the desired transfer date.

[0157] In addition, not only for products with electronic shelf tags 160 attached, but also for products with price cards 142, each device such as the handheld terminal device 140 can accept product designation and encourage the return of the product to a wholesaler or transfer to an affiliated store.

[0158] (summary) When the handheld terminal device 140 inputs the expiration date and quantity of the product on the shelf, it transmits the stock information including the input information to a higher-level device such as the store controller 110. When the number of products on display is small, the store clerk checks the stock in the store and restocks the shelves or processes the order manually. Note that even for products that are subject to automatic ordering, in addition to automatic ordering, it is possible to irregularly order manually.

[0159] When the inventory information is transmitted from the store controller 110 to the headquarters master device 180, ordering may be processed at the headquarters, or ordering instruction data transmitted together with the inventory information may be transmitted to a wholesaler, manufacturer, etc. via the headquarters master device 180. Here, for example, the headquarters master device 180 may receive an order instruction for a certain product (product A) from a certain store (store A), but may receive information from another store (store B) indicating that product A is a non-act product (or that there is still some time until the expiration date).

[0160] The headquarters master device 180 manages the presence or absence and number of order instructions for each product in all stores, the presence or absence and number of non-act products, and the presence or absence and number of non-act products whose inventory expiration date falls short of a predetermined period, so that it is possible to control the order quantity for each product. For example, in a store that has non-act products (store B), the electronic shelf label 160 corresponding to product A can be displayed in a display mode indicating a transfer in response to a display instruction based on the order control by the headquarters master device 180.

[0161] If the product A is the subject of the price card 142, the headquarters master device 180 issues a transfer instruction by another method. The transfer instruction may be issued, for example, by a paper instruction sheet, or by transmitting an instruction to issue a price card indicating the same.

[0162] Also, by making a request for confirmation of the transfer from the handy terminal device 140 to the headquarters master device 180 or the store controller 110, it is possible to give various notifications related to the transfer to the store clerk. For example, if the product is subject to transfer and is subject to the electronic shelf label 160, by making the request for confirmation from the handy terminal device 140, the electronic shelf label 160 can display a pop-up prompting confirmation of the presence or absence of the product in the store, display guidance indicating this, or light up the LED lamp 161 in a lighting mode indicating this.

[0163] In addition, if the product is eligible for transfer and is covered by the price card 142, a confirmation request may be made from the handheld terminal device 140, and each device such as the handheld terminal device 140 may display this fact, or may display a message indicating that the applicable product will be withdrawn.

[0164] Furthermore, as a completion operation related to the confirmation, the handy terminal device 140 transmits a completion notification to a higher-level device such as the headquarters master device 180 by reading the product code attached to the electronic shelf label 160 or the price card 142 or a code indicating the ID of the electronic shelf label 160. Upon receiving the completion notification, the higher-level device ends the process related to the confirmation.

[0165] (Non-act product) The electronic shelf label 160 may be displayed in a display mode that indicates a product that has not been sold for a specified period of time (non-act product). For example, in physical shelf operations, circulation inventory (inventory within a range set for each day), regular inventory, etc., there is a task of checking the number of products in stock on the display shelves and the expiration dates of the products on display. In this case, the electronic shelf label 160 is displayed in a display mode that indicates a non-act product (LED lamp 161 is lit). This allows the store clerk to easily identify the product.

[0166] The handy terminal device 140 can also display a list of non-act products. Therefore, the store clerk performs tasks such as physical shelf management while checking the list. Furthermore, during the task, the display of the electronic shelf label 160 can draw the clerk's attention, thereby improving the efficiency of the task of inventorying non-act products.

[0167] In relation to the above, the shelf label management system 1 can also share information on non-act products and act products (best-selling products) with other shelf label management systems in affiliated stores. For example, the handy terminal device 140 can also make a transfer request to another store. The transfer request is transmitted to the shelf label management system of the other store via the shelf label management server 100 and the store controller 110. When the shelf label management system of the other store receives an approval response in response to the transfer request, it displays the electronic shelf label 160 in a display mode indicating that the transfer will be performed.

[0168] Furthermore, the handy terminal device 140 in the other store can appropriately change the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160 in the other store. When the handy terminal device 140 in the other store receives a transfer request, it can also accept a selection of a display mode from a store clerk and display the electronic shelf label 160 in the accepted display mode. Note that the handy terminal device 140 can always accept a selection of the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160, regardless of the timing when the transfer request is received, and display the electronic shelf label 160 in the accepted display mode.

[0169] (Display indicating that the expiration date is approaching) When the number of days remaining until the expiration date falls below a predetermined number of days, the shelf label management server 100 or the wireless indicator 150 may display the electronic shelf label 160 in a display mode that encourages a price reduction. In this case, the shelf label management server 100 or the wireless indicator 150 may also provide a discount recommendation to the store controller 110 or the handheld terminal device 140 to encourage a price reduction. The display mode and discount recommendation that encourages a price reduction may be provided in stages according to the number of days remaining. For example, the display mode and discount recommendation that encourages a price reduction may be in a mode that encourages the store clerk to reduce the price more as the number of days remaining until the expiration date approaches.

[0170] (Use of demand forecasts) By utilizing demand forecasts, the shelf label management server 100 can obtain the number of faces and how many can be displayed for each product. The number of faces is the number of products lined up horizontally on a display shelf. For example, in location management, the minimum volume size of the aisle (shelf) is set as the number of faces, 1. The shelf label management server 100 also performs link management of identification codes that identify electronic shelf labels 160 for each product. The shelf label management server 100 can obtain the number of faces and how many can be displayed for each product by setting the number of displays on the display shelves on which the products are displayed, the number of faces, and the number of products that can be displayed.

[0171] Furthermore, if a demand forecast predicts that the sales volume of a product will increase, the order quantity will increase. In this case, if the number of faces is left unchanged and the product is replenished, it will be troublesome. Therefore, the shelf label management server 100 displays the electronic shelf labels 160 placed on the display shelves around the product (which may be on an aisle or shelf basis) in a predetermined display mode. For example, the shelf label management server 100 lights up the LED lamps 161 in red to indicate candidates for expanding the number of faces and in green to indicate candidates for reducing the number of faces. This allows the store clerk to easily adjust the shelf allocation.

[0172] In this case, the shelf label management server 100 lights up, for example, the LED lamps 161 in yellow for electronic shelf labels 160 that are not candidates for face number expansion or reduction but are placed on shelves where it is acceptable (or would be acceptable) to adjust the number of faces. This allows store clerks to more easily adjust shelf allocations.

[0173] (Regarding updates to display format, etc.) When the shelf label management server 100 receives data such as reserved items and event information from the store controller 110, it matches the received data with information in the product master managed by the shelf label management server 100. The shelf label management server 100 then transmits the data on reserved items and event information to the POP creation device 130. As a result, the POP creation device 130 prints various paper media. The shelf label management server 100 also transmits product information and event information to the wireless indicator 150 in batch processing for items whose selling prices have changed. The wireless indicator 150 determines the size of the electronic shelf label 160, a display layout according to the normal size, and a display layout according to the event, and transmits display instructions to each electronic shelf label 160. As a result, the electronic shelf label 160 updates the display content.

[0174] The embodiments will be summarized below. [Name of invention] Electronic shelf label control device, system, and program [Technical field] The present invention relates to an electronic shelf label control device, a system, and a program. [Background technology] Conventionally, when a store runs low on stock of a product, a sales clerk places an order for that product. For example, the order is placed from a personal computer located in the back room or from a handheld terminal device carried by a sales clerk who makes the rounds on the sales floor. Shelf tags are placed on the display shelves, and the sales clerk checks the shelf tag and the stock of the product to place the order. In recent years, in addition to regular shelf labels in which product information such as price is printed on paper, electronic shelf labels that display product information on a display have become widespread (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). Electronic shelf labels allow product information to be changed without the need for store clerks to replace the labels, reducing the workload of store clerks when changing product information. [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] JP 2000-076351 A [Summary of the invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention] However, in the conventional technology, when a sales clerk walking around the sales floor finds a product with a small number of items on display, it is not easy to check whether the product has been ordered or not. For example, the sales clerk uses a personal computer or a handheld terminal device to check whether the product has been ordered or not. This creates a workload for the sales clerk. The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a technique capable of reducing the workload of store clerks.

[0175] [Means for solving the problem] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an electronic shelf label control device according to one aspect of the present invention is an electronic shelf label control device that includes: an acquisition means for acquiring a product and order information indicating whether the product has been ordered; an identification means for identifying an electronic shelf label associated with the product indicated by the order information if the order information indicates that the product has been ordered; and a display instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has been ordered. According to the above configuration, the electronic shelf label 160 can display the product in an "on order" state. Therefore, when there is a product with a small display quantity, the store clerk can easily check whether the product has been ordered or not from the display state of the electronic shelf label 160. This reduces the workload of the store clerk in checking whether the product has been ordered or not.

[0176] (2) In the configuration of (1) above, the acquisition means may acquire delay information indicating whether or not delivery of an ordered item will be delayed compared to normal, and when the delay information indicates a delivery delay, the display instruction means may instruct the electronic shelf label to display a display mode indicating that the delivery will be delayed. According to the above configuration, the electronic shelf label 160 can display the delayed item. Therefore, when there is a product with a small number of products on display, the store clerk can easily check whether there is a delivery delay from the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160. This reduces the workload of the store clerk in checking whether there is a delivery delay.

[0177] (3) In the configuration of (1) or (2) above, the acquisition means may acquire event information including products that are the subject of a sales event and the period of the event, and automatic ordering information indicating whether automatic ordering is being executed or stopped for each product. The display instruction means may identify products for which automatic ordering has been stopped during the event period among the products that are the subject of the event, based on the event information and the automatic ordering information, and may issue a display instruction to that effect on the electronic shelf label corresponding to the identified product. According to the above configuration, the electronic shelf label 160 can be displayed in an automatic ordering stopped mode. Therefore, for products that are the subject of an event, the store clerk can easily check whether automatic ordering has been stopped from the display mode of the electronic shelf label 160. Therefore, the workload of the store clerk in checking whether automatic ordering has been stopped during the event period can be reduced.

[0178] (4) In the above configuration (3), the display instruction means may instruct the electronic shelf label to display a display mode indicating that the event period will end a predetermined day before the end date of the event period. According to the above configuration, The electronic shelf label 160 can be displayed in a re-opening prompting manner. Therefore, for products that are the subject of the event, near the end of the event period, the store clerk can easily check whether automatic ordering has been resumed from the display manner of the electronic shelf label 160. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the workload of the store clerk in checking whether automatic ordering has been resumed near the end of the event period.

[0179] (5) In the above configuration (3), the display instruction means may be configured to instruct the electronic shelf label to display a display mode indicating that the event period will start a predetermined day before the start date of the event period. According to the above configuration, The electronic shelf label 160 can be displayed in a manner urging the user to stop the automatic ordering. Therefore, for products that are the subject of an event, before the start of the event period, the store clerk can easily check whether or not automatic ordering has been stopped from the display manner of the electronic shelf label 160. Therefore, the workload of the store clerk in checking whether or not automatic ordering has been stopped before the start of the event period can be reduced.

[0180] (6) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an electronic shelf label control device according to one aspect of the present invention is an electronic shelf label control device that includes: an acquisition means for acquiring a product and order information indicating whether the product has been ordered; an identification means for identifying an electronic shelf label associated with the product indicating that the product has not been ordered when the order information indicates that the product has not been ordered; and a display instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has not been ordered. According to the above configuration, the electronic shelf label 160 can display the product in an "on order" state. Therefore, when there is a product with a small display quantity, the store clerk can easily check whether the product has been ordered or not from the display state of the electronic shelf label 160. This reduces the workload of the store clerk in checking whether the product has been ordered or not.

[0181] (7) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an electronic shelf label control device that is one aspect of the present invention is an electronic shelf label control device in a system that includes an electronic shelf label, an electronic shelf label control device, and a mobile communication terminal, and includes clerk information acquisition means that acquires clerk information identifying a clerk from the mobile communication terminal, setting information acquisition means that acquires setting information indicating a display mode of the electronic shelf label, and display instruction means that issues a predetermined display instruction to a target electronic shelf label in accordance with the setting information acquired by the setting information acquisition means, wherein the clerk information is associated in advance with shelf label identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label, and the display instruction means issues the predetermined display instruction in accordance with the setting information to the electronic shelf label indicated by the shelf label identification information that is associated with the clerk information acquired by the clerk information acquisition means. According to the above configuration, the electronic shelf label 160 can display the product in an "on order" state. Therefore, when there is a product with a small display quantity, the store clerk can easily check whether the product has been ordered or not from the display state of the electronic shelf label 160. This reduces the workload of the store clerk in checking whether the product has been ordered or not.

[0182] (8) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a system according to another aspect of the present invention is a system including an electronic shelf label and an electronic shelf label control device that controls the electronic shelf label, wherein the electronic shelf label control device comprises: an acquisition means for acquiring a product and order information indicating whether the product has been ordered, an identification means for identifying the electronic shelf label associated with the product indicated by the order information if the order information indicates that the product has been ordered, and a display instruction means for issuing a display instruction to the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means in a display mode indicating that the product has been ordered, and the electronic shelf label comprises: a communication unit that receives the display instruction, and a display operation unit that displays in the display mode indicated by the display instruction received by the communication unit. According to the above configuration, the electronic shelf label 160 can display the product in an "on order" state. Therefore, when there is a product with a small display quantity, the store clerk can easily check whether the product has been ordered or not from the display state of the electronic shelf label 160. This reduces the workload of the store clerk in checking whether the product has been ordered or not.

[0183] (9) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a system according to another aspect of the present invention is a system including an electronic shelf label, an electronic shelf label control device, and a mobile communication terminal, wherein the electronic shelf label control device includes clerk information acquisition means for acquiring clerk information identifying a clerk from the mobile communication terminal, setting information acquisition means for acquiring setting information indicating a display mode of the electronic shelf label, and display instruction means for issuing a predetermined display instruction to a target electronic shelf label in accordance with the setting information acquired by the setting information acquisition means, wherein the clerk information is associated in advance with shelf label identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label, and the display instruction means issues the predetermined display instruction in accordance with the setting information to the electronic shelf label indicated by the shelf label identification information associated with the clerk information acquired by the clerk information acquisition means. According to the above configuration, the store clerk can operate the mobile communication terminal to display the electronic shelf label 160 in a desired display mode such as "ordered," "delayed," "suspended," etc. Therefore, the workload of the store clerk in checking whether or not a product has been ordered can be reduced.

[0184] (10) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a program as another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer of an electronic shelf label control device to function as an acquisition means for acquiring a product and order information indicating whether the product has been ordered, an identification means for identifying an electronic shelf label associated with the product indicated by the order information if the order information indicates that the product has been ordered, and a display instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has been ordered. According to the above configuration, the electronic shelf label 160 can display the product in an "on order" state. Therefore, when there is a product with a small display quantity, the store clerk can easily check whether the product has been ordered or not from the display state of the electronic shelf label 160. This reduces the workload of the store clerk in checking whether the product has been ordered or not.

[0185] It should be noted that all or part of the functions (input / output, storage, processing (including judgment)) of the wireless indicator 150 described above may be realized by a device other than the device described as the entity executing the function.

[0186] Specifically, in the above description, the wireless indicator 150 has been described as having functional units including an acquisition unit 601, an identification unit 602, a display instruction unit 603, a store clerk information acquisition unit, and a setting information acquisition unit. All or a part of each functional unit may be provided in another computer device. For example, all or a part of each functional unit may be provided in the shelf label management server 100, the store controller 110, or a computer device other than these. Also, the computer device provided with each functional unit may be multiple or one.

[0187] The program for implementing the shelf label management system 1 and the wireless indicator 150 described above may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and the program may be read and executed by a computer system. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The term "computer-readable storage medium" refers to portable media such as a flexible disk, an optical magnetic disk, a ROM, and a CD-ROM, and a storage device such as a hard disk built into a computer system. The term "computer-readable storage medium" also includes a storage device that holds a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that becomes a server or a client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. The "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be for implementing a part of the above-mentioned functions. Furthermore, the above-mentioned functions may be realized in combination with a program already stored in the computer system, that is, a so-called differential file (differential program). [Explanation of symbols]

[0188] 1...shelf label management system, 100...shelf label management server, 101...shelf label information DB, 102...wireless indicator DB, 110...store controller, 120...weighing, packaging, and pricing device, 130...POP creation device, 140...handheld terminal device, 150...wireless indicator, 151...shelf label information DB, 152...display mode DB, 160...electronic shelf label, 400...shelf label information, 601...acquisition unit, 602...identification unit, 603...display instruction unit

Claims

1. An acquisition means for acquiring order information indicating a product and whether the product has been ordered; an identification means for identifying an electronic shelf label associated with a product indicated by the order information when the order information indicates that the product has been ordered; a display instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has been ordered; An electronic shelf label control device comprising:

2. The acquiring means acquires delay information indicating whether delivery of an ordered product will be delayed more than usual, the display instruction means, when the delay information indicates a delay in delivery, instructs the electronic shelf label to display a display mode indicating that the delivery will be delayed. The electronic shelf label control device according to claim 1 .

3. The acquisition means includes: Event information including the products that are the subject of the sales event and the period of the event; Auto-order information for each product, showing whether auto-ordering is running or stopped; Get the display instruction means identifies products for which automatic ordering has been suspended during the event period among the products that are targets of the event, based on the event information and the automatic ordering information, and issues an instruction to display an indication to that effect on the electronic shelf labels corresponding to the identified products. The electronic shelf label control device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the display instruction means instructs the electronic shelf label to display a display mode indicating that the event period will end a predetermined day before the end date of the event period. The electronic shelf label control device according to claim 3.

5. the display instruction means issues a display instruction to the electronic shelf label in a display mode indicating that the event period will start a predetermined day before the start date of the event period. The electronic shelf label control device according to claim 3 .

6. An acquisition means for acquiring order information indicating a product and whether the product has been ordered; an identification means for identifying an electronic shelf label associated with a product that has not been ordered, when the order information indicates that the product has not been ordered; a display instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has not been ordered; An electronic shelf label control device comprising:

7. A system including an electronic shelf label and an electronic shelf label control device that controls the electronic shelf label, The electronic shelf label control device includes: An acquisition means for acquiring order information indicating a product and whether the product has been ordered; an identification unit that identifies the electronic shelf label associated with the product indicated by the order information when the order information indicates that the product has been ordered; a display instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has been ordered; Equipped with The electronic shelf label includes: A communication unit that receives the display instruction; a display operation unit that displays in a display mode indicated by the display instruction received by the communication unit; Equipped with A system characterized by:

8. An electronic shelf label control device in a system including an electronic shelf label, an electronic shelf label control device, and a mobile communication terminal, a store clerk information acquisition means for acquiring store clerk information for identifying a store clerk from the mobile communication terminal; a setting information acquiring means for acquiring setting information indicating a display mode of the electronic shelf label; a display instruction unit that issues a predetermined display instruction to the target electronic shelf label in accordance with the setting information acquired by the setting information acquisition unit; Equipped with the store clerk information is associated in advance with shelf label identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label, the display instruction means issues the predetermined display instruction corresponding to the setting information to the electronic shelf label indicated by the shelf label identification information associated with the store clerk information acquired by the store clerk information acquisition means. Electronic shelf label control device.

9. A system including an electronic shelf label, an electronic shelf label control device, and a mobile communication terminal, The electronic shelf label control device includes: a store clerk information acquisition means for acquiring store clerk information for identifying a store clerk from the mobile communication terminal; a setting information acquiring means for acquiring setting information indicating a display mode of the electronic shelf label; a display instruction unit that issues a predetermined display instruction to the target electronic shelf label in accordance with the setting information acquired by the setting information acquisition unit; Equipped with the store clerk information is associated in advance with shelf label identification information that identifies the electronic shelf label, the display instruction means issues the predetermined display instruction corresponding to the setting information to the electronic shelf label indicated by the shelf label identification information associated with the store clerk information acquired by the store clerk information acquisition means. system.

10. The computer of the electronic shelf label control device, An acquisition means for acquiring a product and order information indicating whether the product has been ordered; an identification means for identifying an electronic shelf label associated with a product indicated by the order information when the order information indicates that the product has been ordered; a display instruction means for instructing the electronic shelf label identified by the identification means to display a display mode indicating that the product has been ordered; A program that functions as a

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