Friday, September 26, 1991
One week after its release, ZEPS was selling like iced tea in a desert. In all six outlets where Shinsuke had placed it, the entire stock had been sold out! Now, the ZAGE team was scrambling, completely out of inventory, and they wouldn't have any new units to sell for at least a week. The next batch from Saiko Machine was expected around Wednesday, October 2.
Feeling the pressure, Zaboru grabbed the phone and called Tetsuo.
"Hello, Tetsuo-san! Is there any way to speed up the next batch? I didn't expect the first shipment to sell out in just a week!"
On the other end, Tetsuo sighed. "I've already accelerated production as much as possible. The next batch should be ready by Tuesday September 30, but I can't push it any faster. We're already exceeding the schedule by a day."
Zaboru exhaled heavily. "Understood. Thank you, Tetsuo-san."
Demand for ZEPS was surging beyond expectations. The six retailers were being bombarded with inquiries from eager customers wanting to get their hands on the console. Unfortunately, with no stock available, the store owners were left in a bind.
Shinsuke, the marketing manager, leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples. "Well, damn. I didn't expect ZEPS to sell out like this so quickly."
"It's a good problem to have," Zaboru replied, though he was equally stressed. "But how do we handle the demand? We can't start selling the next batch until at least October 1 or October 2. Even though the consoles and cartridges will be come already assembled by the 30th, we still need to package everything."
Shinsuke snapped his fingers. "Let's put up a banner at all six retailers announcing that ZEPS will be available again on October 2. That way, customers know when to expect it. Meanwhile, I'll reach out to other retailers and see if they're interested in carrying ZEPS now that it's gained traction."
Zaboru nodded. It was a solid plan. Meanwhile, Yugo and Yuna were busy working on the next batch of games set for mid-October. They were preparing titles that Zaboru already make for akechi, like Mega Man, Final Fight, and Hang-On , Zaboru also prepare new games to make after those 3 released on the mid October
With ZAGE now an official company, they could also take out loans from the bank to increase production with Saiko Machine.
Zaboru had been hesitant about external funding, wanting to maintain control over the company's decisions in future. But with the current success, expanding production became a priority he need to expand the sales of his ZEPS to others Tokyo Districts and he also need to sells ZEPS on all Japan province not just Tokyo. They were also in the process of hiring more employees and converting ZAGE 4 current staff into full-time contracts with proper benefits.
As Zaboru mulled over these thoughts, over at Dekapon Electronics, a high school student named Ishigi who arcade lover stood in front of the store, stunned.
"I can't believe no one told me there was a home console that rivals arcade machines! And now it's too late!" he muttered, his frustration evident.
He had been desperate to buy ZEPS, but the console was completely sold out. When he asked the store owner, Daichi, about restocking, he was met with uncertainty. Just then, a middle-aged man arrived at the store carrying a stack of posters. He spoke briefly with Daichi before helping him put up a large banner that read:
NEXT BATCH OF ZEPS AVAILABLE ON OCTOBER 2! STAY TUNED AND SORRY FOR THE INCONVENIENCE!
Ishigi's eyes lit up. At least now there was a confirmed restock date. Smiling to himself, he decided to pass the time by visiting a friend who had managed to buy ZEPS. The two spent the afternoon playing Super Mario Bros., Excitebike, and Punch-Out! together, laughing and competing.
Similar scenes played out across all six stores. As soon as the banners went up, hopeful customers were reassured, and the excitement for ZEPS continued to grow.
Back at the office, Shinsuke returned, updating Zaboru on the situation.
"Boss, I think we've handled things well. Now, we just need to focus on preparing the next batch."
Zaboru nodded. "Yeah, tomorrow we'll begin packing the ZEPS boxes, game cartridges Boxes, and all the necessary materials."
Sayuri, having completed her tasks for the day, was lounging with a cup of coffee.
Shinsuke grinned at her. "Heh, it's rare to see you take a break, Sayu-chan."
She sighed. "Like I said before, when we're at work, please address me professionally, Shin-san."
Zaboru chuckled. It really was rare to see Sayuri taking a moment to relax—she must have been in an exceptionally good mood. Meanwhile, Yuna and Yugo were playing ZEPS on the office TV. Zaboru didn't mind as long as their work was finished.
Shinsuke stretched, heading for the smoking area. "Boss, wanna join me for a smoke?"
Zaboru shook his head. "I'm good, Shin-san."
Clicking his tongue, Shinsuke shrugged and stepped outside.
Despite the chaos, Zaboru still found it hard to believe how successful the first batch of ZEPS had been. He was grateful for his employees, who were passionate about the project, and he wanted to make sure they were treated well.
He also owed much of his success to his father. Feeling sentimental, he decided to buy him an expensive coffee as a gift. He turned to Sayuri, knowing she was a coffee expert.
"Sayuri-san, do you have any recommendations for a good coffee gift? My dad loves black coffee, so I want to get him something special."
Sayuri smiled. "There's a coffee shop around here called Doutor. They sell high-quality beans—I'm sure your dad would love it."
Zaboru nodded. "I might try some for myself, too. I love black coffee as well. Let's hope my dad enjoys it."
That evening, after closing up the office, Zaboru bought the Doutor coffee for both himself and his father. With his employees heading home, he finally allowed himself to relax, reflecting on the incredible week ZAGE had just experienced.
To be continued.