Billionaire Profile
Hisao Nagata
Global Rank
#2786

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Hisao Nagata

CEO, Trial Holdings
JP
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.2B
As of December 2025
Age
69
Source
Retail
Industry
fashion-retail
Citizenship
JP

Biography

Hisao Nagata, a Japanese billionaire, is the visionary founder and chairman of Trial Holdings. Hisao Nagata is the chairman and president of Trial Holdings, a fast-growing discount supermarket chain that uses advanced retail IT and AI systems. With a net worth of $1.2 billion as of December 2025, Nagata's wealth stems from his pioneering work in retail and his significant ownership stake in Trial Holdings. He is a prominent figure in Japan's retail sector, recognized for his forward-thinking approach to integrating technology into the industry and is ranked #2786 in the world today. His retail success stems from his father opening a thrift store in 1974, which he took over in 1981, then evolved into the Trial Company, which opened its first discount store in 1992. Hisao Nagata is a leader in applying artificial intelligence in retail to enhance customer experience and streamline operations.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Beginnings

Hisao Nagata's journey began in Fukuoka, Japan. In 1974, his father opened a thrift store named Asahiya. Hisao took over the business in 1981 at the age of 25, setting the stage for his future in retail. He then founded Trial Company and began focusing on retail digital transformation (DX) technology, laying the groundwork for his success.

Rise to Success

The first Trial discount store opened in 1992. Nagata's vision involved leveraging technology to improve efficiency and enhance customer experience. He focused on integrating AI to analyze customer shopping patterns and manage inventory. Trial Holdings has developed self-checkout shopping carts, AI-equipped cameras, and systems designed to cut labor costs and optimize inventory.

Key Business Strategies

Hisao Nagata's key strategy revolves around the innovative use of AI in retail. Trial Holdings has over 300 stores across Japan, emphasizing technology to create "Smart Stores." The company has collaborated with NEC Corp for AI-powered facial recognition systems and is considering integrating generative AI for staff communication. These strategies showcase Nagata's commitment to embracing technological advancements to drive growth and efficiency in the retail sector. The company's revenue for the fiscal year ending June 2024 was $4.6 billion.

Philanthropy

There is no publicly available information regarding Hisao Nagata's specific philanthropic initiatives or the amounts donated.

Career Milestones

1981

Took over Asahiya

Nagata took charge of his father's thrift store, Asahiya, in Fukuoka.

1984

Founded Trial Company

Established Trial Company and started a software developer focusing on retail digital transformation (DX) technology.

1992

Opened First Trial Discount Store

Launched the first discount store, marking the start of Trial's expansion.

2024

Trial Holdings IPO

Listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange's Growth bourse.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""Not using AI in retail is not an option.""