Store Exit Management System, Store Exit Management Method, and Program

Abstract

A store exiting management system comprising a store exiting information acquisition unit, a specification unit, and a granting unit. The store exiting information acquisition unit acquires store exiting information from a terminal device after payment for products registered by customer operations on the terminal device has been completed. The specification unit specifies an incentive corresponding to the acquired store exiting information. The granting unit grants the customer the specified incentive.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a store exit management system and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a type of scan shopping in which a customer registers a product through an operation on a terminal device.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technique in which a checkout terminal in a store calculates the payment amount based on discount information for a coupon sent from a user terminal.

[0004] Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 2 describes a technique in which a user terminal selects a coupon, transmits the coupon to a privilege provision device, and the privilege provision device settles the amount after the coupon is applied.

[0005] Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 3 describes a technology in which a mobile terminal displays store exit information when payment is made via the mobile terminal. Patent Document 3 also describes a technology in which a store terminal reads the store exit information displayed on the mobile terminal and infers whether payment has been completed when a customer leaves the store. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-038539 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-154682 [Patent Document 3] Patent Publication No. 2021-135525 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] For example, a store exit process is performed in which a reading device installed in the store reads store exit information from a terminal device operated by the customer after the payment is completed. However, customers may find the store exit process to be a hassle.

[0008] An example of an objective of the present disclosure is to provide a store exit management system that improves customers' motivation to complete store exit procedures. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A store exit management system in one aspect of the present disclosure includes a store exit information acquisition means for acquiring store exit information from a terminal device after a product is registered through a customer's operation on the terminal device and payment for the registered product is completed, a determination means for determining an incentive according to the acquired store exit information, and an awarding means for awarding the determined incentive to the customer.

[0010] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a store exit management method registers a product through a customer's operation on a terminal device, and after payment for the registered product is completed, store exit information is obtained from the terminal device, an incentive corresponding to the obtained store exit information is identified, and the identified incentive is granted to the customer.

[0011] A program in one aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer to execute a process in which a product is registered through a customer's operation on a terminal device, and after payment for the registered product is completed, store exit information is acquired from the terminal device, an incentive is identified according to the acquired store exit information, and the identified incentive is granted to the customer.

[0012] The program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to improve the motivation of customers to complete the store exit process. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a store exit management system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the store exit management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of store exit processing at a store exit counter. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of connections between a store exit management system and each device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a store exit management system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a terminal device. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display device installed on a store exit counter. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a first example of a store exit code display. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a second example of a store exit code display. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the customer's name is displayed on the display device after the store exit code is acquired. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which information about a customer's membership rank is displayed on a display device after a store exit code is acquired. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a coupon code displayed on a display device. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the store exit management system when a paper coupon is issued. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device when a paper coupon is issued. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the reading device when a paper coupon is issued. [Figure 16]10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the display device when a paper coupon is issued. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a printing device when a paper coupon is issued. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the store exit management system when notifying an electronic coupon. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device when notifying an electronic coupon. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the store exit management system when an electronic coupon is obtained via the display device. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device when an electronic coupon is acquired via the display device. [Figure 22] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the display device when an electronic coupon is obtained via the display device. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which coupon candidates are displayed on a terminal device during product registration. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which coupon grant conditions are displayed on the terminal device during product registration. [Figure 25] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the store exit management system during product registration. [Figure 26] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the terminal device during product registration. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of store exit processing at a flapper gate. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a store exit management system in Modification 1. [Figure 29] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a computer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, embodiments of a store exit management system, a store exit management method, a program, and a non-transitory recording medium for recording the program according to the present disclosure will be described in detail. The present embodiments do not limit the disclosed technology.

[0016] (Embodiment 1) First, in the first embodiment, the basic functions of a store exit management system will be described. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a store exit management system according to the first embodiment. The store exit management system 10 includes a store exit information acquisition unit 101, an identification unit 102, and an assignment unit 103.

[0017] The store exit information acquisition unit 101 acquires store exit information from the terminal device after a product is registered by a customer's operation on the terminal device and payment for the registered product is completed. The terminal device is a device that can be operated by a customer. The store exit information may include customer identification information that identifies the customer, or may include a code associated with the customer identification information. This makes it possible to identify which customer is performing the store exit process. The store exit information may also be represented by a code such as numbers or letters. Here, the code representing the store exit information is called a store exit code. The store exit code may be represented by a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code. The customer identification information is not particularly limited as long as it can uniquely identify the customer.

[0018] As a method for the store exit information acquisition unit 101 to acquire store exit information from the terminal device, the store exit information acquisition unit 101 acquires the store exit code by reading the store exit code displayed on the terminal device using a reading device installed in the store. Alternatively, as another method, the store exit information acquisition unit 101 may acquire the store exit code by having the reading device installed in the store receive the store exit code from the terminal device through short-range wireless communication between the reading device and the terminal device. Alternatively, as another method, the store exit information acquisition unit 101 may acquire the store exit code by accepting input of the store exit code displayed on the terminal device through a customer's operation of an input device installed in the store.

[0019] Here, the store may be, for example, a supermarket, a supercenter, a convenience store, a mass retailer, a home improvement store, a drugstore, a store selling apparel products, or an independent store such as a bakery or a prepared food store, and is not particularly limited.

[0020] The specifying unit 102 specifies an incentive according to the acquired store exit information. The type of incentive may be, for example, a coupon, points, or the like, but is not limited to this.

[0021] For example, an incentive to be given when store exit information is acquired may be predetermined. Specifically, for example, an incentive to be given when store exit processing is performed is predetermined, and the identification unit 102 identifies the incentive according to the store exit information.

[0022] Alternatively, for example, the specifying unit 102 specifies an incentive depending on whether the payment is made via a terminal device. More specifically, for example, the specifying unit 102 specifies an incentive such that the incentive is higher when the payment is made via a terminal device than when the payment is made via a settlement device.

[0023] Alternatively, for example, the specifying unit 102 may specify an incentive according to the amount of payment. For example, the specifying unit 102 may specify an incentive such that the higher the amount of payment, the higher the incentive. More specifically, for example, incentives according to amounts may be compiled in a table in advance, and the specifying unit 102 may specify an incentive according to the amount of payment from the table.

[0024] Alternatively, the specifying unit 102 may specify an incentive according to the number of times a payment is made via a terminal device. This number is counted for each customer, for example. For example, the specifying unit 102 specifies an incentive such that the greater the number of times, the higher the incentive. More specifically, for example, incentives according to the number of times may be compiled in a table in advance, and the specifying unit 102 may specify an incentive according to the number of times from the table.

[0025] Alternatively, the identification unit 102 may identify an incentive according to the number of times store exit information is acquired. This number is counted for each customer, for example. The number of times store exit information is acquired is the number of times store exit processing is performed. For example, the identification unit 102 identifies an incentive such that the greater the number of times, the higher the incentive. More specifically, for example, incentives according to the number of times may be compiled in a table in advance, and the identification unit 102 may identify an incentive according to the number of times from the table.

[0026] Alternatively, for example, if a customer has been assigned a membership rank, the identification unit 102 may identify an incentive according to the membership rank identified by the customer identification information obtained based on the store exit information. Specifically, for example, if the store exit information includes customer identification information, the identification unit 102 identifies an incentive according to the membership rank identified by the customer identification information obtained based on the store exit information. For example, if the store exit information includes a code associated with the customer identification information, the identification unit 102 identifies an incentive according to the membership rank identified by the customer identification information associated with the code included in the store exit information. More specifically, for example, the identification unit 102 identifies an incentive such that the higher the membership rank, the higher the incentive. The criteria for the membership rank are not particularly limited, but for example, the membership rank may be determined based on the purchase amount for a specified period or the number of times the customer has visited the store for a specified period.

[0027] Then, the granting unit 103 grants the identified incentive to the customer. The method by which the granting unit 103 grants the incentive varies depending on the type of incentive. For example, if the incentive is points, the granting unit 103 may add the identified point value to the point value associated with the customer identification information. For example, if the incentive is a coupon, the granting unit 103 may issue the coupon. The coupon may be a paper coupon or an electronic coupon. The coupon is a coupon that can be used for subsequent shopping. An example of issuing a coupon will be described in the second embodiment with a specific example.

[0028] 2 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the store exit management system 10 according to the first embodiment. The store exit management system 10 acquires store exit information (step S101). The store exit management system 10 identifies an incentive according to the store exit information (step S102). Then, the store exit management system 10 grants the incentive (step S103).

[0029] As described above, in the first embodiment, when the store exit management system 10 acquires store exit information from a customer's terminal device, it grants the customer an incentive according to the store exit information. In this way, by granting an incentive, it is possible to increase the customer's motivation to complete the store exit process. Also, in the case of an exit counter that does not have a gate, there are cases where customers leave the store without completing the store exit process. The store exit management system 10 can ensure that customers complete the store exit process more reliably.

[0030] (Embodiment 2) Next, a second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the second embodiment, coupons are used as an example of incentives, and examples of specifying and providing coupons will be described in detail. Below, explanations of content that overlaps with the above explanation will be omitted to the extent that the explanation of the second embodiment is not unclear.

[0031] 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of store exit processing at a store exit counter. The store exit counter is equipped with a display device 23 and a reading device 22. The display device 23 may display, for example, instructions for customers.

[0032] For example, after completing payment, a customer goes to an exit counter before leaving the store. Then, terminal device 21, which can be operated by the customer, displays an exit code. In FIG. 3, the exit code is represented by a two-dimensional code. The customer holds the exit code over reading device 22. Reading device 22 then reads the exit code from terminal device 21. In this way, the exit process is carried out. Note that in the case of an exit counter without a gate, as in FIG. 3, a customer may leave the store without completing the exit process.

[0033] 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of connections between the store exit management system and each device according to the second embodiment. The store exit management system 20 is connected to, for example, a terminal device 21, a reading device 22, a display device 23, and a printing device 24 via a communication network NT. For ease of explanation, one communication network NT is used as an example, but the store exit management system 20 may be connected to each device via a different communication network NT.

[0034] The terminal device 21 is a device that can be operated by a customer and is portable for the customer. For example, the terminal device 21 registers products through operation by the customer. The type of the terminal device 21 is not particularly limited, and may be a smartphone, a tablet device, a dedicated device for the store, or the like. The terminal device 21 is assumed to have an application program for shopping at the store pre-installed, for example. The terminal device 21 then exchanges various types of information with the store exit management system 20 via the application program.

[0035] The reading device 22, the display device 23, and the printing device 24 are installed at the exit counter. The reading device 22 is a device capable of reading the exit code. The reading device 22 may be a device that reads the exit code via wireless communication with the terminal device 21, or may be a device capable of reading one-dimensional codes or two-dimensional codes.

[0036] The display device 23 displays various information under the control of the store exit management system 20. The printing device 24 is a device that issues paper coupons and the like.

[0037] An exit terminal device (not shown) may be installed at the exit counter, and the exit terminal device may include a reading device 22, a display device 23, and a printing device 24. An audio output device such as a speaker may also be connected.

[0038] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a store exit management system 20 according to the second embodiment. The store exit management system 20 includes a store exit information acquisition unit 201, an identification unit 202, an assignment unit 203, a first output control unit 204, a second output control unit 205, a registration unit 206, a settlement unit 207, and a counting unit 208. The store exit management system 20 further includes the first output control unit 204, the second output control unit 205, the registration unit 206, the settlement unit 207, and the counting unit 208 in addition to the store exit management system 20 according to the first embodiment. The store exit information acquisition unit 201 has the basic functions of the store exit information acquisition unit 201 according to the first embodiment. The identification unit 202 has the basic functions of the identification unit 202 according to the first embodiment. The assignment unit 203 has the basic functions of the assignment unit 203 according to the first embodiment.

[0039] The store exit management system 20 also includes a product DB (Database) 2001 , a list DB 2002 , a customer DB 2003 , a sales DB 2004 , and coupon information 2005 .

[0040] The product DB 2001 stores product identification information and product information in association with each other for each product. For example, when the product identification information is a product code, the product information is information such as the product name and product price, but is not particularly limited.

[0041] The list DB2002 stores the latest list of items for which payments have not yet been completed, for each customer. For example, the list stores, for each customer, customer identification information for identifying the customer, identification information for the items the customer plans to purchase (e.g., item code), and purchase quantity information, in association with each other. The customer identification information may be, for example, a customer's name, customer telephone number, or customer email address, as long as it can uniquely identify the customer. For example, before starting to register items for a new customer, customer identification information such as a customer ID (identifier) ​​may be assigned to the customer. Note that if a member ID such as a point card number or membership number is available, the member ID may be used as the customer identification information. The list DB2002 may also store lists for each transaction. For example, when storing lists for each transaction, transaction identification information may be assigned instead of customer identification information. Note that the list may also be called a shopping cart.

[0042] The customer DB 2003 stores information about each customer. For example, the customer DB 2003 stores, for each customer, customer identification information that identifies the customer and information about the customer in association with each other. The customer identification information is not particularly limited as long as it can uniquely identify the customer. For example, a customer ID will be used as an example of customer identification information. However, the customer identification information may also be information such as the customer's membership ID, the customer's name, and contact information such as the customer's telephone number and email address. If the customer ID is the customer identification information, the customer's membership ID, the customer's name, and the customer's contact information may also be information about the customer. Furthermore, for example, the information about the customer may also be information such as the customer's membership rank, information related to the membership rank, the number of times the customer has exited the store, the number of times the customer has made payments via the terminal device 21, and information about the coupons issued and the coupon usage status. The membership rank is a rank assigned to each customer based on a predetermined criterion. The membership rank may be determined based on the purchase amount or the number of purchases, and is not particularly limited. The information related to the membership rank is information necessary to determine the membership rank. For example, if the member rank is determined monthly based on the total purchase amount for that month, the information related to the member rank is, for example, the total purchase amount for that month.

[0043] The sales DB 2004 stores, for example, information related to sales. The sales DB 2004 may manage, for example, information corresponding to each transaction. The sales DB 2004 stores, in association with each other, for example, customer identification information, identification information of purchased products, purchase quantities for each product, payment amounts by each payment method, information on whether payment was made via the terminal device 21 or via a settlement device, and, if payment was made via a settlement device, identification information of the settlement device and the date and time of purchase.

[0044] The coupon information 2005 is information indicating a coupon corresponding to the store exit information. The coupon may be a discount or a product exchange, and is not particularly limited. The coupon may be uniquely determined in advance.

[0045] Alternatively, coupons may be determined based on the payment amount. The payment amount is also referred to as the purchase amount. Specifically, for example, coupons may be determined such that the higher the purchase amount for this shopping, the higher the value of the coupon. Note that a higher coupon value means a higher incentive. The higher the purchase amount, the higher the incentive. A higher coupon value means, for example, a higher discount amount or a higher price for the product that can be exchanged for the coupon. Alternatively, a higher coupon value means that the product that can be exchanged for the coupon is a product that the customer wants or frequently purchases. Specifically, for example, if the coupon is a discount coupon, the coupon may be predetermined so that the discount amount increases with the purchase amount. Furthermore, for example, if the coupon is for product exchange, the coupon may be predetermined so that the higher the purchase amount, the higher the price of the product that can be exchanged for the coupon. In such a case, coupon information 2005 may be a table in which coupons are predetermined based on purchase amount.

[0046] Alternatively, coupons may be determined according to membership rank. For example, the higher the membership rank, the higher the value of the coupon. More specifically, for example, if the coupon is a discount, the coupon may be determined so that the higher the membership rank, the greater the discount amount of the coupon. If the coupon is for product exchange, the coupon may be determined so that the higher the membership rank, the higher the price of the product that can be exchanged. In such cases, coupon information 2005 may be a table in which coupons are determined in advance according to membership rank.

[0047] Alternatively, the coupon may be determined depending on whether payment is made via the terminal device 21. The coupon may be determined so that the value of the coupon is higher when payment is made via the terminal device 21 than when payment is not made via the terminal device 21. More specifically, for example, if the coupon is a discount, the coupon may be determined so that the discount amount is higher when payment is made via the terminal device 21 than when payment is made via the settlement device. If the coupon is for product exchange, the coupon may be determined so that the price of the exchangeable product is higher when payment is made via the terminal device 21 than when payment is made via the settlement device. In this way, if the coupon is different when payment is made via the terminal device 21 and when payment is made via the settlement device, for example, the coupon information 2005 is information indicating the coupon when payment is made via the terminal device 21 and the coupon when payment is made via the settlement device.

[0048] Furthermore, the coupon may be determined so that its value is highest when product registration and payment are performed via the terminal device 21. Specifically, for example, the coupon may be determined so that the discount amount of the coupon is higher when product registration and payment are performed via the terminal device 21 than when product registration is performed via the terminal device 21 and payment is performed via a checkout device. The coupon may be determined so that the discount amount of the coupon is higher when product registration is performed via the terminal device 21 and payment is performed via a checkout device than when product registration is performed via a product registration device installed in the store and payment is performed via a checkout device. In other words, the coupon may be determined so that the more times a customer operates the terminal device 21 during shopping, the higher the discount amount of the coupon. While the example of a coupon discount has been described, in the case of a coupon for product exchange, the coupon may be determined so that the price of the exchangeable product is higher when product registration and payment are performed via the terminal device 21. This can promote shopping via the terminal device 21.

[0049] Alternatively, the coupon may be determined based on the number of times a payment is made via the terminal device 21. The number of times a payment is made via the terminal device 21 is counted for each customer, for example. The coupon may be determined so that the greater the number of times, the higher the value of the coupon. Specifically, for example, if the coupon is a discount, the coupon may be determined so that the greater the number of times a payment is made via the terminal device 21, the greater the discount on the coupon. Alternatively, if the coupon is for product exchange, the coupon may be determined so that the greater the number of times a payment is made via the terminal device 21, the higher the price of the product that can be exchanged. For example, the coupon information 2005 may be a table in which coupons are determined by number of times.

[0050] Alternatively, the coupon may be determined based on the number of times a customer has performed the store exit process. The number of times a customer has performed the store exit process is counted for each customer, for example. The coupon may be determined so that the more times a customer has performed the store exit process, the higher the value of the coupon. More specifically, for example, if the coupon is a discount, the coupon may be determined so that the more times a customer has performed the store exit process, the higher the discount on the coupon. Alternatively, if the coupon is for product exchange, the coupon may be determined so that the more times a customer has performed the store exit process, the higher the price of the product that can be exchanged. For example, coupon information 2005 may be a table in which coupons are determined by number of times.

[0051] In the second embodiment, a coupon is used as an example, but if other incentives are used, the other incentives may be determined in the same manner.

[0052] 6 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the terminal device 21. The terminal device 21 includes an output unit 211, an incentive acquisition unit 212, an operation reception unit 213, and a product identification information acquisition unit 214. The output unit 211 outputs various information to an output device such as a display device or an audio output device of the terminal device 21. The operation reception unit 213 receives various operations on the terminal device 21 by a customer.

[0053] First, a specific example of the store exit process will be described.

[0054] The first output control unit 204 controls the display on the display device 23. The first output control unit 204 causes the display device 23 to display a guide for the customer.

[0055] 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display device 23 installed at the exit counter. The display device 23 displays a screen d301 including a message such as "Please hold the exit code over the reader 22."

[0056] The store exit information acquisition unit 201 acquires store exit information from the terminal device 21 via the reading device 22. An example of store exit information will be explained below using a store exit code.

[0057] First, an example will be described in which the reading device 22 reads an exit code displayed on the terminal device 21. The second output control unit 205 controls the display of the terminal device 21. For example, the second output control unit 205 causes the terminal device 21 to display the exit code. The second output control unit 205 may also cause the exit code to be displayed when product registration is performed via the terminal device 21 by a customer's operation. The second output control unit 205 may also cause the exit code to be displayed when product registration and payment are performed via the terminal device 21 by a customer's operation. Then, the output unit 211 displays the exit code on the display device of the terminal device 21.

[0058] 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example 1 of a store exit code. In Fig. 8, the output unit 211 displays a screen d101 including a store exit code represented by a two-dimensional code on the display device of the terminal device 21.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 8, the screen d101 may have an "Exit" button for ending the display of the screen d101 after the store exit code has been read.

[0060] 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example 2 of a store exit code. In FIG. 9, the output unit 211 displays a screen d102 including a store exit code represented by a two-dimensional code on the display device of the terminal device 21.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 9, the screen d102 includes information indicating that a coupon will be issued in addition to the screen d101 shown in Fig. 8. This allows the customer to see at a glance that they can obtain a coupon by exiting the store.

[0062] Specifically, the customer holds the store exit code displayed on the terminal device 21 over the reader 22. The reader 22 reads the store exit code from the terminal device 21. The reader 22 transmits the store exit code to the store exit management system 20. Then, the store exit information acquisition unit 201 receives the store exit code from the reader 22, thereby acquiring the store exit code.

[0063] Next, another example in which the store exit information acquisition unit 201 acquires the store exit code from the terminal device 21 will be described. The terminal device 21 may transmit the store exit code to the reading device 22 through short-range wireless communication between the reading device 22 and the terminal device 21. The reading device 22 receives the store exit code from the terminal device 21. Then, the reading device 22 transmits the store exit code to the store exit management system 20.

[0064] Next, the identification unit 202 identifies a coupon according to the store exit information. For example, the identification unit 202 identifies a coupon based on the coupon information 2005. Here, several examples of identifying a coupon will be described. The examples may be combined.

[0065] Alternatively, the identifying unit 202 identifies a coupon according to the purchase amount. Specifically, for example, the identifying unit 202 identifies a coupon according to the purchase amount from the coupon information 2005.

[0066] Alternatively, the identification unit 202 may identify a coupon by a membership rank identified by customer identification information included in the store exit information, based on the coupon information 2005 and the customer DB 2003. The membership rank is identified by the customer DB 2003.

[0067] Alternatively, the identification unit 202 identifies a coupon depending on whether the payment has been made via the terminal device 21. Specifically, for example, the identification unit 202 identifies a coupon in this case when the payment has been made via the terminal device 21 based on the coupon information 2005. On the other hand, the identification unit 202 identifies a coupon in this case when the payment has been made via a settlement device based on the coupon information 2005.

[0068] Alternatively, the identification unit 202 may identify a coupon based on the number of payments made via the terminal device 21. As described above, this number is counted for each customer. When an incentive is identified based on the number of payments made via the terminal device 21, the counting unit 208 counts this number for each customer and stores the counting result in the customer DB 2003. Specifically, for example, the identification unit 202 identifies the number of payments made via the terminal device 21 from the customer DB 2003 based on customer identification information obtained based on the store exit information. Then, for example, the identification unit 202 identifies a coupon corresponding to the identified number of payments from the coupon information 2005.

[0069] Alternatively, the identification unit 202 may identify a coupon based on the number of times a customer has performed a store exit process. As described above, this number is counted for each customer. Note that, when an incentive is identified based on the number of times a customer has performed a store exit process, the counting unit 208 counts this number for each customer and stores the counting result in the customer DB 2003. Specifically, for example, the identification unit 202 identifies the number of times a customer has performed a store exit process from the customer DB 2003 based on customer identification information obtained based on the store exit information. Then, for example, the identification unit 202 identifies a coupon corresponding to the number of times a customer has performed a store exit process from the coupon information 2005.

[0070] Next, the granting unit 203 issues a coupon. Examples of how the granting unit 203 issues a coupon include issuing a paper coupon, notifying the terminal device 21 of an electronic coupon, and having the terminal device 21 read the electronic coupon. Each example will be described in turn.

[0071] <Examples of when a paper coupon is issued> First, an example in which a paper coupon is issued will be described.

[0072] The issuing unit 203 causes the printing device 24 to print and issue the coupon. As a result, the printing device 24 issues a paper coupon. The customer can then obtain the paper coupon from the printing device 24.

[0073] Furthermore, when a paper coupon is issued, a message from the store to the customer may be displayed on the display device 23. For example, the first output control unit 204 may obtain information about the customer from the customer DB 2003 using the customer identification information included in the store exit code, and cause the display device 23 to display the information about the customer. The information about the customer may be at least one of the customer's name, membership number, membership rank, and information about the membership rank, and is not particularly limited.

[0074] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the customer's name is displayed on the display device 23 after the store exit code has been acquired. The first output control unit 204 causes the display device 23 to display a message along with the customer's name. In FIG. 10, the display device 23 displays a screen d302 including the message "Reading successful! Mr. / Ms. xxx, we look forward to seeing you again!" and the customer's name.

[0075] Fig. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which information regarding a customer's membership rank is displayed on the display device 23 after the store exit code has been acquired. The first output control unit 204 causes the display device 23 to display the information regarding the membership rank. In Fig. 11, the display device 23 displays a screen d303 including the message "Reading successful! If you purchase an additional 2,000 yen this month, your membership rank will increase" and information regarding the membership rank.

[0076] Furthermore, although not shown, the first output control unit 204 may cause the display device 23 to display that a paper coupon has been issued.

[0077] Furthermore, when an incentive is specified by the number of times a store exit process has been performed, the counting unit 208 counts the number of times the store exit process has been performed for each customer and stores the counting results in the customer DB 2003. When an incentive is specified by the number of times a store exit process has been performed, the counting process by the counting unit 208 is not limited to the case where a paper coupon is issued, but is also performed in the same way in the case where an electronic coupon is notified and in the case where the electronic coupon is obtained via the display device 23.

[0078] <Example of notifying an electronic coupon> Next, an example of notifying an electronic coupon will be described. The granting unit 203 notifies the customer or the customer's terminal device 21 of the electronic coupon. The notification method is not particularly limited. For example, the granting unit 203 notifies a specific application program running on the terminal device 21. Alternatively, the granting unit 203 may push the coupon to the terminal device 21. Alternatively, the granting unit 203 notifies the customer of the electronic coupon by email. Alternatively, the granting unit 203 notifies the customer of the electronic coupon by an electronic message.

[0079] Furthermore, when notifying the terminal device 21 or the customer of an electronic coupon, a message from the store to the customer may be displayed on the display device 23, similar to when a paper coupon is issued. A display example on the display device 23 by the first output control unit 204 may be the same as when a paper coupon is issued, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted. Furthermore, although not shown, the first output control unit 204 may cause the display device 23 to display that an electronic coupon has been notified.

[0080] Furthermore, the incentive acquisition unit 212 of the terminal device 21 may acquire the coupon by receiving the notification.

[0081] <Example of Acquiring an Electronic Coupon via the Display Device 23> Next, an example will be described in which the terminal device 21 acquires an electronic coupon via the display device 23. The granting unit 203 causes the display device 23, via the first output control unit 204, to display a coupon code from which the terminal device 21 can acquire a coupon.

[0082] Fig. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a coupon code is displayed on the display device 23. The first output control unit 204 causes the display device 23 to display the coupon code. In Fig. 12, a screen d304 including the coupon code is displayed on the display device 23.

[0083] The incentive acquisition unit 212 of the terminal device 21 then reads the coupon code via the imaging device of the terminal device 21, thereby acquiring the coupon identified by the coupon code.

[0084] <Example of operation when a paper coupon is issued> First, an example of the operation of each device when a paper coupon is issued will be described.

[0085] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the store exit management system 20 when a paper coupon is issued. The first output control unit 204 causes the display device 23 to display a screen requesting that an exit code be read (step S201). Next, the second output control unit 205 causes the terminal device 21 to display the exit code (step S202). The store exit information acquisition unit 201 determines whether the store exit code has been received (step S203). If the store exit code has not been received (step S203: No), the store exit information acquisition unit 201 returns to step S203. If the store exit code has been received (step S203: Yes), the identification unit 202 identifies the coupon corresponding to the store exit code (step S204).

[0086] Next, the issuing unit 203 causes the printing device 24 to issue a paper coupon (step S205). The first output control unit 204 causes the display device 23 to display a store exit screen (step S206), and ends the process. In step S206, the store exit screen is a screen that includes a message from the store to the customer after reading is complete and information about the customer identified by the customer identification information, such as screen d302 shown in FIG. 10 and screen d303 shown in FIG. 11.

[0087] 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of terminal device 21 when a paper coupon is issued. Output unit 211 displays a store exit code in accordance with the control of second output control unit 205 (step S211), and ends the process.

[0088] Although not shown, when the store exit information acquisition unit 201 receives the store exit code, the second output control unit 205 may end the display of the store exit code on the terminal device 21. Then, the output unit 211 ends the display of the store exit code.

[0089] 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the reading device 22 when a paper coupon is issued. The reading device 22 determines whether or not the store exit code has been read from the terminal device 21 (step S221). If the store exit code has not been read (step S221: No), the reading device 22 returns to step S221. If the store exit code has been read (step S221: Yes), the reading device 22 transmits the store exit code to the store exit management system 20 (step S222) and ends the process.

[0090] 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the display device 23 when a paper coupon is issued. The display device 23 displays a screen requesting the reading of a store exit code in accordance with the control of the first output control unit 204 (step S231). For example, an example of the screen in step S231 is the screen d301 shown in FIG. 7. The display device 23 displays a store exit screen after the store exit code has been read in accordance with the control of the first output control unit 204 (step S232), and ends the process. An example of the store exit screen is figure 10 and screen d303 shown in FIG.

[0091] 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the printer 24 when a paper coupon is issued. The printer 24 issues a paper coupon under the control of the issuing unit 203 (step S241), and then ends the process.

[0092] <Example of operation when notifying an electronic coupon> Next, an example of the operation of each device when the granting unit 203 notifies the customer or the customer's terminal device 21 of the electronic coupon will be described. Note that the reading device 22 and display device 23 operate in the same way as in the example of operation when a paper coupon is issued, so a detailed example will be omitted. Note that because this is an electronic coupon, the operation of the printing device 24 used to print a paper coupon will not be specifically described. Therefore, an example of the operation of each of the store exit management system 20 and the terminal device 21 will be described.

[0093] 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the store exit management system 20 when notifying an electronic coupon. The processes from step S301 to step S304 are the same as the processes from step S201 to step S204, respectively, and therefore detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0094] After step S304, the granting unit 203 notifies the terminal device 21 of the coupon (step S305). Then, the first output control unit 204 causes the display device 23 to display a screen for leaving the store (step S306), and the process ends.

[0095] 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device 21 when notifying an electronic coupon. The output unit 211 displays a store exit code under the control of the second output control unit 205 (step S311). Next, the incentive acquisition unit 212 determines whether a coupon has been acquired (step S312). In step S312, the incentive acquisition unit 212 receives the coupon notification and thereby acquires the coupon. If the coupon has not been acquired (step S312: No), the incentive acquisition unit 212 returns to step S312. If the coupon has been acquired (step S312: Yes), the terminal device 21 ends the process.

[0096] <Example of operation when an electronic coupon is acquired via the display device 23> Next, an example of the operation of each device when the granting unit 203 displays the coupon code of the electronic coupon on the display device 23 and the terminal device 21 acquires the coupon via the display device 23 will be described. Note that the operation of the reading device 22 is the same as in the example of when a paper coupon is issued, so a detailed example will be omitted. Note that because this is an electronic coupon, the operation of the printing device 24 used to print a paper coupon will not be particularly described. Therefore, an example of the operation of each of the store exit management system 20, the terminal device 21, and the display device 23 will be described.

[0097] 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the store exit management system 20 when an electronic coupon is acquired via the display device 23. The processes from step S401 to step S404 are the same as the processes from step S201 to step S204, respectively, and therefore detailed explanations will be omitted. After step S404, the granting unit 203 causes the display device 23 to display a coupon code from which a coupon can be acquired via the first output control unit 204 (step S405), and the process ends. An example of a screen including a coupon code is, for example, screen d304 shown in FIG. 12.

[0098] 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device 21 when an electronic coupon is acquired via the display device 23. The output unit 211 displays a store exit code under the control of the second output control unit 205 (step S411). Next, the output unit 211 displays a coupon code reading screen (step S412). The incentive acquisition unit 212 reads the coupon code displayed on the display device 23 using the imaging device of the terminal device 21 (step S413). This allows the incentive acquisition unit 212 to acquire the coupon represented by the coupon code. After step S413, the terminal device 21 ends the processing.

[0099] 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the display device 23 when an electronic coupon is obtained via the display device 23. The display device 23 displays a screen requesting reading of an exit code in accordance with control by the first output control unit 204 (step S431). Next, the display device 23 displays the coupon code in accordance with control by the first output control unit 204 (step S432). In step S432, the display device 23 displays a screen including the coupon code. An example of this screen is, for example, screen d304 shown in FIG. 12. After step S432, the display device 23 ends the process.

[0100] In the above example, the process when leaving the store after payment has been completed has been described.

[0101] Next, an example will be described in which, for example, candidate incentives that a customer can receive by having the reader 22 read the store exit code after payment is completed are presented during product registration, etc. For example, if an incentive is specified according to the purchase amount, candidate incentives may be displayed on the terminal device 21 while the customer is registering the product via the terminal device 21.

[0102] For example, the product identification information acquisition unit 214 acquires product identification information that identifies a product that the customer plans to purchase. The product identification information is not particularly limited as long as it can uniquely identify the product, but a product code will be used as an example of product identification information. The product code may be represented by a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code. Furthermore, the method by which the product identification information acquisition unit 214 acquires the product code is not particularly limited, but will be described using an example in which the one-dimensional code is recognized via an imaging device of the terminal device 21 and the product code represented by the one-dimensional code is acquired.

[0103] The product identification information acquisition unit 214 reads the product code via the imaging device and transmits the product code to the store exit management system 20. The registration unit 206 receives the product code and registers the product code in a list. In this manner, product registration is performed. Note that this product registration process is an example and is not particularly limited.

[0104] The specifying unit 202 then specifies incentive candidates according to the total price of the products registered in the list. The second output control unit 205 may then cause the terminal device 21 to output the specified incentive candidates.

[0105] FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which coupon candidates are displayed on the terminal device 21 during product registration. The output unit 211 displays a list screen d103 including the identified coupon candidates on the display device of the terminal device 21. In FIG. 23, the list screen d103 displays information indicating that the coupon candidates will be issued when the customer performs the store exit process, such as "When you perform the store exit process, a coupon for xxx that can be used next time will be issued." The list screen d103 also includes a list of registered products, the total price of the products, an "Add Product" button, a "Cancel Transaction" button, and a "Pay" button.

[0106] The "Cancel Transaction" button is a button for accepting an instruction to cancel the transaction. An instruction to cancel the transaction is an instruction to end the transaction. For example, when the "Cancel Transaction" button is tapped, the operation acceptance unit 213 sends an instruction to cancel the transaction to the store exit management system 20. This ends the transaction.

[0107] Also, for example, the list screen d103 displays the product names, prices, and purchase quantities of registered products as a list of products.

[0108] Furthermore, for example, the "Add Product" button is a button for accepting a reading instruction operated by a customer. The reading instruction is an instruction to read new product identification information. For example, when the "Add Product" button is tapped, the operation accepting unit 213 transmits the reading instruction to the store exit management system 20. As a result, a reading screen for reading a new product code is displayed on the terminal device 21.

[0109] The "Payment" button is a button for accepting a payment instruction. The payment instruction is an instruction to start payment by customer operation. In other words, accepting a payment instruction indicates that product registration is to be completed. For example, when the "Payment" button is tapped, the operation acceptance unit 213 sends a payment instruction to the store exit management system 20. This initiates the payment process. The payment may be made via the terminal device 21 or via a payment settlement device. However, if payment is made via the terminal device 21 by customer operation, the work of the store clerk can be reduced. Furthermore, if payment is made via the terminal device 21 by customer operation, the number of payment settlement devices installed can be reduced.

[0110] The example in FIG. 23 is an example in which the total amount satisfies the incentive granting condition. On the other hand, there are cases in which the total amount does not satisfy the incentive granting condition. In such a case, if the total amount does not satisfy the incentive granting condition, the second output control unit 205 may cause the terminal device 21 to output the incentive granting condition. For example, if the coupon granting condition is that the total amount is 1,000 yen or more, and the current total amount is less than 1,000 yen, the second output control unit 205 may notify the terminal device 21 of this granting condition.

[0111] FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which coupon granting conditions are displayed on the terminal device 21 during product registration. The output unit 211 displays a list screen d104 including the coupon granting conditions on the display device of the terminal device 21. In FIG. 24, the list screen d104 displays information indicating that a coupon will be issued by completing the store exit process once the coupon granting conditions are met, such as "If you purchase another 312 yen and complete the store exit process, a coupon for yyy that can be used next time will be issued." Note that other information included on the list screen d104 in FIG. 24 may be similar to that on the list screen d103 in FIG. 23, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0112] The determination unit 202 may determine whether the coupon granting conditions are met, without being limited to the example of the total amount. If the coupon granting conditions are met, the second output control unit 205 may notify the terminal device 21 of coupon candidates, and if the coupon granting conditions are not met, may notify the terminal device 21 of the granting conditions.

[0113] <Example of product registration> 25 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the store exit management system 20 during product registration. The second output control unit 205 causes the terminal device 21 to display a reading screen (step S501). The registration unit 206 determines whether a product code has been received from the terminal device 21 (step S502). If a product code has not been received (step S502: No), the registration unit 206 returns to step S502. If a product code has been received (step S502: Yes), the registration unit 206 registers the product using the product code (step S503). Note that, for example, in step S503, the registration unit 206 registers the product by registering the product code in a list corresponding to the customer.

[0114] The identification unit 202 determines whether the coupon granting conditions are met (step S504). In step S504, for example, the identification unit 202 determines whether the total price of the registered products meets the coupon granting conditions. If the coupon granting conditions are met (step S504: Yes), the second output control unit 205 causes the terminal device 21 to display a list screen including coupon candidates (step S505), and the process proceeds to step S507. An example of the list screen in step S505 is the list screen d103 shown in FIG. 23. If the coupon granting conditions are not met (step S504: No), the second output control unit 205 causes the terminal device 21 to display a list screen including the granting conditions (step S506), and the process proceeds to step S507. An example of the list screen in step S506 is the list screen d104 shown in FIG. 24.

[0115] Next, the second output control unit 205 determines whether a read instruction has been received (step S507). If a read instruction has been received (step S507: Yes), the second output control unit 205 returns to step S501. If a read instruction has not been received (step S507: Yes), the settlement unit 207 determines whether product registration has been completed (step S508). If product registration has not been completed (step S507), the process returns to step S507.

[0116] When product registration is completed (step S508: Yes), the settlement unit 207 performs a settlement or the like (not shown) and terminates the process. The settlement unit 207 performs the settlement via the terminal device 21. Alternatively, the settlement unit 207 performs the settlement via a cashier. When the incentive is determined by the number of times settlement is made via the terminal device 21, the counting unit 208 counts this number for each customer and stores the counting results in the customer DB 2003.

[0117] 26 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device 21 during product registration. In FIG. 26, the output unit 211 displays each screen under the control of the second output control unit 205.

[0118] The output unit 211 displays a read screen (step S511). The product identification information acquisition unit 214 reads the product code (step S512). Then, the product identification information acquisition unit 214 transmits the product code (step S513). The output unit 211 displays a list screen (step S514). Here, the list screen is, for example, a list screen including coupon candidates or a list screen including conditions for providing coupons. As described above, an example of a list screen including coupon candidates is the list screen d103 shown in FIG. 23. Also, an example of a list screen including conditions for providing coupons is the list screen d104 shown in FIG. 24.

[0119] The operation acceptance unit 213 determines whether a new reading is to be performed based on whether an operation such as the "Read Product" button has been accepted (step S515). If a new reading is to be performed (step S515: Yes), the operation acceptance unit 213 transmits a reading instruction (step S516) and returns to step S511. If a new reading is not to be performed (step S515: No), the operation acceptance unit 213 determines whether product registration is complete (step S517).

[0120] If product registration is not complete (step S517: No), the operation accepting unit 213 returns to step S515. If product registration is complete (step S517: Yes), the terminal device 21 ends the process. Note that if payment is made via the terminal device 21, if the answer to step S517 is Yes, the terminal device 21 performs processing such as accepting operations related to payment.

[0121] As described above, in the second embodiment, a customer may find the store exit process to be a hassle. In response to this, when the store exit management system 20 acquires a store exit code from the customer's terminal device 21, it grants the customer an incentive corresponding to the store exit code. In this way, by granting an incentive for the store exit process, it is possible to increase the customer's motivation to perform the store exit process. Furthermore, in the case of a store exit counter that does not have a gate as shown in FIG. 3, there is a case where a customer leaves the store without completing the store exit process. In response to this, by granting an incentive for the store exit process, the store exit management system 20 can ensure that customers perform the store exit process more reliably.

[0122] Furthermore, the store exit management system 20 may provide an incentive to the customer when payment is made via the terminal device 21. This can increase the motivation of the customer to shop via the terminal device 21. This can reduce the work of the store staff. It can also reduce the number of payment terminals installed.

[0123] Alternatively, the store exit management system 20 may specify an incentive depending on whether payment is made via the terminal device 21. For example, the store exit management system 20 specifies an incentive so that if payment is made via the terminal device 21, the incentive is higher than if payment is made via a checkout device. This can increase the motivation of customers to shop via the terminal device 21.

[0124] The store exit management system 20 also specifies an incentive according to the number of payments made via the terminal device 21. The store exit management system 20 specifies an incentive so that the more payments made, the higher the incentive. This can improve the motivation of customers to shop via the terminal device 21.

[0125] In addition, the store exit management system 20 specifies an incentive according to the payment amount. For example, the store exit management system 20 specifies an incentive so that the higher the payment amount, the higher the incentive. This can increase sales.

[0126] The store exit management system 20 also specifies an incentive according to the number of times store exit information is acquired. The store exit management system 20 specifies an incentive so that the more times the information is acquired, the higher the incentive. This makes it possible to ensure that customers perform the store exit process more reliably.

[0127] In addition, the store exit management system 20 identifies incentives according to the customer's membership rank. This can increase sales if the membership rank is determined according to the customer's purchase amount or number of visits over a specified period. In this case, it can also increase the number of visits to the store.

[0128] The incentive may be a coupon that can be used in a subsequent transaction, and may be a paper coupon or an electronic coupon.

[0129] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are not limited to the examples described above, and various modifications are possible. For example, in the second embodiment, a coupon is used as an incentive, but the type of incentive is not particularly limited. Here, a modified example will be described.

[0130] <Variation 1> In the second embodiment, an example was explained in which the exit counter is equipped with a reading device 22, a display device 23, a printing device 24, etc. In the first modification, an example will be explained in which a physical gate, etc. is provided. A flapper gate will be used as an example of the gate.

[0131] 27 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of store exit processing at a flapper gate. The flapper gate is equipped with a display device 23 and a reading device 22. The display device 23 may display, for example, guidance to customers.

[0132] For example, after completing payment, a customer goes to the flapper gate before leaving the store. Then, a terminal device 21 that the customer can operate displays an exit code. In FIG. 3, the exit code is represented by a two-dimensional code. The customer holds the exit code over the reading device 22. The reading device 22 then reads the exit code from the terminal device 21. In this way, the exit process is carried out. After the exit process is carried out, the flapper gate opens. Note that a printing device 24 (not shown) may be installed at the flapper gate.

[0133] 28 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the store exit management system 20 in Modification 1. In the store exit management system 20, a gate control unit 209 is added to the functional units shown in FIG.

[0134] The gate control unit 209 controls, for example, the opening and closing of a flapper gate. For example, the gate control unit 209 may open the closed flapper gate after the store exit information acquisition unit 201 acquires the store exit code. For example, the flapper gate may be opened at such a timing when, for example, an electronic coupon is notified.

[0135] Furthermore, for example, in the case of a paper coupon or when the terminal device 21 acquires an electronic coupon via the display device 23, if the flapper gate is opened before the coupon is dispensed, the customer may leave the store without receiving the coupon. Therefore, the gate control unit 209 may open the flapper gate, for example, after the dispenser unit 203 dispenses the coupon.

[0136] Furthermore, the gate control unit 209 may close the flapper gate upon detecting the passage of a customer, or may close the flapper gate after a predetermined time has elapsed since the flapper gate was opened.

[0137] <Variation 2> In the second embodiment, an example has been described in which the first output control unit 204 controls the display of the display device. For example, the first output control unit 204 may control an audio output device such as a speaker installed at an exit counter. For example, the first output control unit 204 may output audio guidance or messages to customers.

[0138] In the second embodiment, an example has been described in which the second output control unit 205 controls the display on the display device of the terminal device 21. For example, the second output control unit 205 may control an audio output device of the terminal device 21.

[0139] This concludes the description of each embodiment and each modified example. Note that each embodiment and the modified examples described in each embodiment may be used in combination. Also, for example, in each embodiment, the store exit management system may be configured to include some of the functional units and information.

[0140] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above and can be modified in various ways. Furthermore, the configuration of the store exit management system 20 in each embodiment is not particularly limited. The store exit management system may be realized by a single device, or may be realized by different devices for different functions or databases. Furthermore, the store exit management system may be configured by several of these servers.

[0141] For example, functional units related to a specific application program, such as the second output control unit 205, may be realized by an application server. Functional units related to POS (Point Of Service), such as the registration unit 206 and the settlement unit 207, may be realized by a POS server. Functional units related to store exit may be realized by a store exit management server, and various DBs may be realized by a database server.

[0142] Furthermore, for example, one terminal device 21 may be provided with the functional units of the store exit management system described in each embodiment.

[0143] Furthermore, between devices such as the terminal devices and store exit management systems described in each embodiment and variant example, the subject of transmission and reception may be the information itself or an identifier representing the information, and is not particularly limited.

[0144] In each embodiment and modification, each table or piece of information may include part of the information described above. Also, each table or piece of information may include information other than the information described above. Each table or piece of information may be divided into multiple tables or multiple pieces of information in more detail. In this way, there are no particular limitations on how each table or piece of information is realized.

[0145] Furthermore, each screen is an example and is not particularly limited. The position, color, and size of each item, such as a button, input field, or display field, on each screen are not particularly limited. Buttons, information display fields, input fields, and the like (not shown) may be added to each screen. Furthermore, the background color of the screen may be changed.

[0146] For example, in each embodiment and each variant example, the process of generating screen information to be displayed on the display device of the terminal device may be performed by the second output control unit of the store exit management system, or by the output unit of the terminal device.

[0147] In addition, the process of generating screen information to be displayed on a display device installed in the store may be performed by the first output control unit of the store exit management system, or may be performed by a display device installed in the store.

[0148] (Example of computer hardware configuration) Next, an example of a hardware configuration in which each device, such as the store exit management system (server) and terminal device described in each embodiment, is implemented by a computer will be described. Fig. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a computer. For example, some or all of each device can be implemented using any combination of a computer 80 and a program as shown in Fig. 29.

[0149] The computer 80 includes, for example, a processor 801, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 802, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 803, and a storage device 804. The computer 80 also includes a communication interface 805 and an input / output interface 806. Each component is connected to the other via, for example, a bus 807. The number of each component is not particularly limited. For example, there may be one or more of each component.

[0150] The processor 801 controls the entire computer 80. Examples of the processor 801 include a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), and a graphics processing unit (GPU). As described above, the number of processors 801 is not particularly limited, and there may be one or more processors 801. The computer 80 includes a storage unit such as a read-only memory (ROM) 802, a random access memory (RAM) 803, and a storage device 804. Examples of the storage device 804 include a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), and a solid state drive (SSD). For example, the storage device 804 stores an operating system (OS) program, application programs, and programs according to the embodiments. Alternatively, the ROM 802 stores application programs and programs according to the embodiments. The RAM 803 is used as a work area for the processor 801. As described above, the number of ROM 802, RAM 803, and storage device 804 is not particularly limited, and there may be one or more ROM 802, RAM 803, and storage device 804.

[0151] The processor 801 also loads programs stored in the storage device 804, ROM 802, etc. The processor 801 then executes each process coded in the program. The processor 801 may also download various programs via a communication network. The processor 801 also functions as a part or all of the computer 80. The processor 801 may then execute the processes or instructions in the illustrated flowchart based on the program.

[0152] The communication interface 805 is connected to a communication network NT such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network) via a wireless or wired communication line. The communication network may be configured with multiple communication networks. As a result, the computer 80 is connected to external devices and external computers 80 via the communication networks. The communication interface 805 serves as an interface between the communication network NT and the inside of the computer 80. The communication interface 805 also controls the input and output of data from the external devices and external computers 80.

[0153] Furthermore, the input / output interface 806 is connected to at least one of an input device, an output device, and an input / output device. The connection method may be wireless or wired. Examples of input devices include a keyboard, a mouse, and a microphone. Examples of output devices include a display device, a lighting device, and a speaker that outputs audio. Examples of input / output devices include a touch panel display. Note that the input device, output device, and input / output device may be built into the computer 80 or may be external.

[0154] The hardware configuration of the computer 80 is an example. The computer 80 may have some of the components shown in FIG. 29. The computer 80 may have components other than those shown in FIG. 29. For example, the computer 80 may have a drive device or the like. The processor 801 may then read programs and data stored on a recording medium attached to the drive device or the like into the RAM 803. Examples of non-transitory tangible recording media include optical disks, flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memories. As described above, the computer 80 may have input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse. The computer 80 may have an output device such as a display. The computer 80 may also have an input device, an output device, and an input / output device.

[0155] The computer 80 may have various sensors (not shown). The type of sensor is not particularly limited. Examples of the sensor include an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor, etc. Examples of the sensor include a fingerprint sensor, a LiDAR (Light, Detection and Ranging), a proximity sensor, and an ambient light sensor.

[0156] This concludes the description of the hardware configuration of each device. There are various variations in the implementation of each device. For example, the store exit management system may be implemented using any combination of different computers and programs for each component. Furthermore, multiple components included in each device may be implemented using any combination of a single computer and program.

[0157] Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be realized by circuits for specific applications. Furthermore, some or all of each device may be realized by general-purpose circuits including a processor such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). Furthermore, some or all of each device may be realized by a combination of circuits for specific applications and general-purpose circuits. Furthermore, these circuits may be a single integrated circuit. Alternatively, these circuits may be divided into multiple integrated circuits. Furthermore, the multiple integrated circuits may be configured by being connected via a bus or the like.

[0158] Furthermore, when some or all of the components of each device are realized by a plurality of computers, circuits, etc., the plurality of computers, circuits, etc. may be centrally located or distributed.

[0159] The store exit management method described in each embodiment is realized by execution by each device such as a store exit management system. Also, the store exit management method is realized by execution of a prepared program by a computer such as a terminal device or a store exit management system (server). The program described in each embodiment is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as an HDD, SSD, flexible disk, optical disk, flexible disk, magneto-optical disk, or USB memory. Then, the program is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. Also, the program may be distributed via a communication network NT.

[0160] The functions of each component of each device in each embodiment described above may be realized by hardware, such as a computer, or may be realized by a computer or firmware under program control.

[0161] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to various embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments. The configuration and details of each of the present disclosures may include embodiments to which various modifications that would be apparent to those skilled in the art are applied within the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure may also include embodiments in which the details described herein are appropriately combined or substituted as necessary. For example, details described using a particular embodiment may also be applied to other embodiments to the extent that no contradiction occurs. For example, although multiple operations are described in sequence in the form of a flowchart, the order of the descriptions does not limit the order in which the multiple operations are performed. Therefore, when implementing each embodiment, the order of the multiple operations may be changed as long as it does not interfere with the content.

[0162] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as follows: However, some or all of the above-described embodiments are not limited to the following.

[0163] (Appendix 1) a store exit information acquiring means for acquiring store exit information from the terminal device after a product is registered through a customer's operation on the terminal device and payment for the registered product is completed; A specifying means for specifying an incentive according to the acquired store exit information; granting means for granting the specified incentive to the customer; A store exit management system equipped with the above. (Appendix 2) The payment is made via the terminal device. The store exit management system described in Appendix 1. (Appendix 3) the specifying means specifies the incentive depending on whether the payment is made via the terminal device. The store exit management system described in Appendix 1. (Appendix 4) the specifying means specifies the incentive so that the incentive is higher when the payment is made via the terminal device than when the payment is made via a settlement device. The store exit management system described in Appendix 3. (Appendix 5) The specifying means specifies the incentive according to the amount of the payment. Attachment 1 or 2, a store exit management system. (Appendix 6) the specifying means specifies the incentive according to the number of times the payment has been made via the terminal device. Attachment 1 or 2, a store exit management system. (Appendix 7) the specifying means specifies the incentive such that the incentive becomes higher as the number of times the payment is made via the terminal device increases. The store exit management system described in Appendix 6. (Appendix 8) The specifying means specifies the incentive according to the number of times the store-leaving information is acquired. Attachment 1 or 2, a store exit management system. (Appendix 9) The specifying means specifies the incentive such that the incentive becomes higher as the number of times the store-leaving information is acquired increases. The store exit management system described in Appendix 8. (Appendix 10) The store exit information includes customer identification information that identifies the customer, the specifying means specifies the incentive according to the membership rank of the customer specified by the customer identification information; Attachment 1 or 2, a store exit management system. (Appendix 11) The incentive is a coupon that can be used in subsequent transactions. 11. The store exit management system according to any one of appendixes 1 to 10. (Appendix 12) the coupon is a paper coupon, The providing means causes a printing device to print the coupon. The store exit management system described in Appendix 11. (Appendix 13) the coupon is an electronic coupon; The providing means notifies the terminal device of the coupon. The store exit management system described in Appendix 11. (Appendix 14) First output control means for controlling the output of a display device installed in a store Equipped with the coupon is an electronic coupon; The providing means causes a display device installed in the store to display a code that allows the terminal device to obtain the coupon via the first output control means. The store exit management system described in Appendix 11. (Appendix 15) The store exit information includes customer identification information that identifies the customer, a first output control means for displaying information about the customer identified by the customer identification information on a display device installed in the store; Attachment 1 to 14, the store exit management system of any one of appendices 1 to 14. (Appendix 16) After the product is registered through the customer's operation on the terminal device and payment for the registered product is completed, store exit information is acquired from the terminal device; Identifying an incentive according to the acquired store exit information; granting the identified incentive to the customer; Exit management methods. (Appendix 17) On the computer, After the product is registered through the customer's operation on the terminal device and payment for the registered product is completed, store exit information is acquired from the terminal device; Identifying an incentive according to the acquired store exit information; granting the identified incentive to the customer; A non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer that records a program for executing processing. (Appendix 18) On the computer, After the product is registered through the customer's operation on the terminal device and payment for the registered product is completed, store exit information is acquired from the terminal device; Identifying an incentive according to the acquired store exit information; granting the identified incentive to the customer; A program that executes a process. [Explanation of symbols]

[0164] 10,20 Exit Management System 21 Terminal equipment 22 Reading device 23 Display device 24 Printing device 80 Computer 101,201 Exit information acquisition section 102,202 Specific part 103,203 Granting Department 204 First output control section 205 Second output control section 206 Registration Department 207 Payment Department 208 Counting Department 209 Gate control section 2001 Product DB 2002 List DB 2003 Customer DB 2004 Sales DB 2005 Coupon Information 211 Output section 212 Incentive Acquisition Department 213 Operation reception section 214 Product identification information acquisition department 801 processor 802 ROM 803 RAM 804 Storage device 805 Communication Interface 806 Input / Output Interface 807 Bus d101 screen d102 screen d103 List screen d104 List screen d301 screen d302 screen d303 screen d304 screen NT Communications Network

Claims

1. a store exit information acquisition means for acquiring store exit information including identification information for identifying the customer from the terminal device after a product is registered through a customer's operation on the terminal device and payment for the registered product is completed; a specifying means for specifying an incentive for the store exit information being acquired when the store exit information is acquired, and not specifying an incentive when the store exit information is not acquired; granting means for granting the specified incentive to the customer; Equipped with the specifying means, when specifying the incentive according to whether the payment has been made via the terminal device as the incentive for acquiring the store exit information, specifies the incentive so that the incentive is higher when the payment has been made via the terminal device than when the payment has been made via a settlement device. Exit management system.

2. a store exit information acquisition means for acquiring store exit information including identification information for identifying the customer from the terminal device after a product is registered through a customer's operation on the terminal device and payment for the registered product is completed; a specifying means for specifying an incentive for the store exit information being acquired when the store exit information is acquired, and not specifying an incentive when the store exit information is not acquired; granting means for granting the specified incentive to the customer; Equipped with the specifying means specifies the incentive according to the amount of the payment as the incentive for acquiring the store exit information. Exit management system.

3. a store exit information acquisition means for acquiring store exit information including identification information for identifying the customer from the terminal device after a product is registered through a customer's operation on the terminal device and payment for the registered product is completed; a specifying means for specifying an incentive for the store exit information being acquired when the store exit information is acquired, and not specifying an incentive when the store exit information is not acquired; granting means for granting the specified incentive to the customer; Equipped with the specifying means specifies, as the incentive for acquiring the store exit information, the incentive according to the number of times the payment has been made via the terminal device. Exit management system.

4. a store exit information acquisition means for acquiring store exit information including identification information for identifying the customer from the terminal device after a product is registered through a customer's operation on the terminal device and payment for the registered product is completed; a specifying means for specifying an incentive for the store exit information being acquired when the store exit information is acquired, and not specifying an incentive when the store exit information is not acquired; granting means for granting the specified incentive to the customer; Equipped with the specifying means specifies, as the incentive for acquiring the store-exit information, the incentive according to the number of times the store-exit information is acquired. Exit management system.

5. The payment is made via the terminal device. The store exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. the specifying means specifies the incentive such that the incentive becomes higher as the number of times the payment is made via the terminal device increases. The store exit management system according to claim 3 .

7. a product is registered through a customer's operation on a terminal device, and after payment for the registered product is completed, store exit information including identification information for identifying the customer is obtained from the terminal device; When the store exit information is acquired, an incentive is specified for the acquisition of the store exit information, and when the store exit information is not acquired, no incentive is specified; granting the identified incentive to the customer; In the identification, when identifying an incentive depending on whether the payment has been made via the terminal device as the incentive for acquiring the store exit information, the incentive is identified so that if the payment has been made via the terminal device, the incentive is higher than if the payment has been made via a settlement device. Exit management methods.

8. On the computer, a product is registered through a customer's operation on a terminal device, and after payment for the registered product is completed, store exit information including identification information for identifying the customer is obtained from the terminal device; When the store exit information is acquired, an incentive is specified for the acquisition of the store exit information, and when the store exit information is not acquired, no incentive is specified; granting the identified incentive to the customer; Execute the process, In the specifying process, when specifying an incentive depending on whether the payment has been made via the terminal device as the incentive for acquiring the store exit information, the incentive is specified so that if the payment has been made via the terminal device, the incentive is higher than if the payment has been made via a settlement device. program.

9. a product is registered through a customer's operation on a terminal device, and after payment for the registered product is completed, store exit information including identification information for identifying the customer is obtained from the terminal device; When the store exit information is acquired, an incentive is specified for the acquisition of the store exit information, and when the store exit information is not acquired, no incentive is specified; granting the identified incentive to the customer; In the identification, the incentive corresponding to the amount of the payment is identified as the incentive for acquiring the store exit information. Exit management methods.

10. On the computer, a product is registered through a customer's operation on a terminal device, and after payment for the registered product is completed, store exit information including identification information for identifying the customer is obtained from the terminal device; When the store exit information is acquired, an incentive is specified for the acquisition of the store exit information, and when the store exit information is not acquired, no incentive is specified; granting the identified incentive to the customer; Execute the process, In the specifying process, the incentive corresponding to the amount of the payment is specified as the incentive for obtaining the store exit information. program.

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