KREO Launches Internal Campaign for AI Robot 'Lanky Mini' Use Cases to Address Staff Shortages with Human-Machine Integrated Communication

Lanky Mini (Ranki Mini)

KREO Inc., a provider of integrated marketing and advertising promotions (Headquarters: Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Tsukasa Yokoi, hereinafter 'KREO'), has received a complimentary loan of 'Lanky Mini (Ranki Mini)', an AI-powered reception, guidance, and security robot developed by Kingsoft Corporation. Starting June 2026, KREO will conduct a three-week internal pilot experiment and launch an internal campaign to solicit innovative use-case ideas. This project aims to explore and validate new roles for robots across all customer touchpoints—including retail and distribution (a core strength of KREO), offices, events, and public spaces—by combining technological capabilities with human creativity to design next-generation service experiences.

Background of the Initiative

As labor shortages intensify across industries, automation through robotics is advancing. However, mere 'efficiency' improvements are insufficient to enhance brand experience or customer satisfaction. KREO believes that by integrating its expertise in conveying 'experiential value (Koto)' cultivated in retail environments into robotic systems, machines can transcend their role as mere tools and become empathetic 'partners' supporting both staff and customers. By proactively soliciting ideas from all employees, KREO aims to generate innovative, practical applications that break free from conventional thinking and are genuinely embraced by frontline teams.

Four Pillars of the Idea Campaign (Expanding Application Areas)

While focusing on deepening applications in the retail sector, this project will use actual devices to verify potential use cases in the following areas:

Future Outlook: Protecting the 'Treasures of the Frontline' through Planning and Technology

Outstanding ideas selected after the three-week pilot period will be developed into concrete services, such as promotional DX support solutions, and offered to clients as marketing and customer service solutions. Moving forward, KREO will continue to contribute to building a society where technology reduces the burden on workers and maximizes creativity, grounded in the belief that 'the frontline belongs to people.'

[Lanky Mini] An AI-powered reception, guidance, and security robot provided by Kingsoft Corporation. Equipped with advanced AI voice guidance and intuitive touch-panel operation, it enables smooth customer interactions. Additionally, its built-in cameras support security measures and shoplifting prevention, simultaneously enhancing service quality and operational efficiency in stores and facilities.

Inquiries Regarding This Announcement KREO Inc., Integrated Planning Department Contact: Fujino Email: h-fujino@kreo.jp

Company Overview Company Name: KREO Inc. Headquarters: 5F, Marunouchi Nitchome Building, 2-5-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo President and CEO: Tsukasa Yokoi Business: Total solutions for marketing, advertising, and promotions Founded: December 1968 Capital: 82.84 million JPY URL: https://kreo.jp/

Lanky Mini Provider: Kingsoft Corporation

Headquarters: 5F, G-BASE Tamachi, 5-29-11 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo President and Chairman: Da Feng Founded: March 9, 2005 Business: Development, sales, and provision of SaaS, software, apps, and AI services for businesses and individuals URL: https://www.kingsoft.jp