Overview

Kanko Gakuseifuku Co., Ltd. (Kanko), one of Japan’s most established school uniform manufacturers, introduced a new sizing service called Smart Sizing (スマート採寸) to meet the urgent need for safer, more efficient uniform fitting during the COVID-19 pandemic. Central to this solution is Bodygram’s AI body measurement technology, enabling remote, contactless sizing using only a smartphone. Together, Kanko and Bodygram reimagined the school uniform fitting experience—making it more accessible, data-driven, and responsive to the evolving expectations of families and schools nationwide.

Background: The Need for Innovation

Before the pandemic, uniform fittings typically involved scheduled group sessions at schools or retail stores, where students were measured in person by staff. This method not only posed health risks during the height of COVID-19 but also created logistical burdens for parents and school administrators—including long wait times and rigid scheduling.

Recognizing the limitations of traditional practices and anticipating long-term shifts in consumer behavior, Kanko sought a scalable, digital-first alternative. They needed a solution that could maintain fitting accuracy, consider growth and dress code guidelines, and improve the customer experience while reducing in-person interaction.

The Solution: Smart Sizing with Bodygram

Kanko’s Smart Sizing service integrates Bodygram’s advanced AI technology to deliver a contactless sizing experience from the comfort of home. The core feature, “Sumareco (スマレコ)”, enables users to measure their bodies remotely by inputting basic information and capturing two full-body photos—front and side—using a smartphone.

Bodygram’s AI analyzes the images to generate precise measurements and recommends the most appropriate uniform size. Unlike casual apparel sizing, school uniforms must account not only for current body size but also for growth forecasts and school-specific dress regulations. The system incorporates these variables using Kanko’s proprietary fitting data and Bodygram’s predictive modeling, ensuring that the recommended size is appropriate for long-term wear.

The entire process can be completed via mobile:

1. Input personal data and register via smartphone
2. Take and upload two body photos (front and side)
3. Receive a recommended size based on body data and growth projection
4. Place an order online
5. Choose home delivery or in-store pickup with flexible scheduling

Results and Benefits

Enhanced Safety and Accessibility

The integration of Bodygram enabled Kanko to launch a fully remote, contactless fitting process, protecting students and staff while maintaining high sizing accuracy. This addressed both public health concerns and broader digital transformation goals.

Improved Operational Efficiency

The shift to online sizing has reduced the labor and time associated with organizing large-scale, in-person fittings. Schools and retailers benefit from streamlined operations, and parents appreciate the convenience of completing the process at home.

Better Fit, Lower Returns

Bodygram’s precision measurement system and Kanko’s growth-adjusted sizing logic ensure that students receive uniforms that fit both current needs and future growth, reducing the likelihood of alterations or reorders.

Elevated Customer Experience

Parents and students have responded positively to the ease of use, quick setup, and ability to avoid crowded fitting sessions. With end-to-end service available online—from measurement to payment and delivery—Kanko has set a new standard for school uniform purchasing.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Kanko and Bodygram represents a breakthrough in how school uniforms are sized, ordered, and delivered in Japan. Through Smart Sizing, Kanko has responded to immediate pandemic-driven concerns while laying the foundation for a more convenient and intelligent future in schoolwear.

As expectations for safety, personalization, and digital convenience grow, Kanko’s investment in AI-powered solutions reflects a broader shift toward modernizing legacy industries with scalable, user-centered technology.