Ethereum News Today: MEDIROM turns salons into crypto access points with human-verification tech

MEDIROM Healthcare Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: MRM) has announced its integration of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology through a partnership with the “World” protocol, a proof-of-human authentication system co-founded by Sam Altman and Alex Blania. The company will install the World ID authentication device, known as the “Orb,” across approximately 100 of its Re.Ra.Ku relaxation salons in Japan. This initiative aims to verify up to 500,000 individuals as part of the company’s broader strategy to explore next-generation digital infrastructure [1].

The Orb device uses biometric authentication to verify users as real humans, providing a secure method of identity verification in the age of AI. Customers who complete the verification process will have the option to claim approximately 8,000 Japanese yen worth of Worldcoin (WLD) tokens, based on current exchange rates. These tokens can later be used to purchase Re.Ra.Ku gift certificates, which are redeemable for services at the company’s salons [1]. Once the program launches, the company plans to acquire WLD tokens from customer purchases and subsequently convert up to 50% of those tokens into Ethereum (ETH), a move aimed at managing liquidity and balance sheet risks [1].

MEDIROM’s expansion into cryptocurrency represents a strategic pivot that aligns with its long-term objective of leveraging technology to drive business growth. The company, which operates over 300 relaxation salons across Japan under multiple brands including Re.Ra.Ku, Spa Re.Ra.Ku, and Ruam Ruam, has positioned itself to benefit from the growing interest in digital identity and token-based incentives. The partnership with World is expected to enhance customer engagement by offering a novel financial incentive tied to identity verification [1].

The initiative also introduces new financial and regulatory complexities for MEDIROM. While the company acknowledges the volatility and liquidity risks associated with cryptocurrency markets, it has outlined a strategy to mitigate these by diversifying its holdings between WLD and ETH [1]. This approach reflects a measured attempt to balance innovation with financial prudence. The company has emphasized its commitment to monitoring and managing the risks associated with its cryptocurrency assets as part of its overall financial strategy [1].

The broader adoption of the Orb technology by MEDIROM is part of a global expansion effort by World, which has deployed the device in other markets and aims to establish a universal human verification system. In Japan, the collaboration with MEDIROM is supported by Hakuhodo Inc., a key domestic partner responsible for planning and operational support [4]. This partnership underscores the company’s ambition to create a scalable and secure digital infrastructure that integrates seamlessly into existing services.

MEDIROM’s move into the cryptocurrency space also reflects broader trends in the healthcare and technology sectors. As companies seek to diversify revenue streams and integrate digital solutions into their offerings, the use of blockchain technology for identity verification and financial incentives is gaining traction. The company’s strategy could serve as a model for how traditional service-oriented businesses adapt to the digital economy while maintaining regulatory compliance and financial stability [1].

Source:

[1] MEDIROM launches cryptocurrency strategy with next-generation proof-of-human technology World (https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/08/22/3138044/0/en/MEDIROM-launches-cryptocurrency-strategy-with-next-generation-proof-of-human-technology-World.html)

[2] MEDIROM to Install World ID Orbs at 100 Re.Ra.Ku Salons (https://www.stocktitan.net/news/MRM/medirom-launches-cryptocurrency-strategy-with-next-generation-proof-hxg5qek4k4kq.html)

[3] World partners to deploy biometric orbs in Japan (https://www.biometricupdate.com/202508/world-partners-with-japanese-relaxation-brand-to-deploy-biometric-orbs)